Creating the Project and Schematic Document

Applies to Altium Designer version: 24

Creating a New PCB Project

In Altium's electronic design software, a PCB project is the set of design documents (files) required to specify and manufacture a printed circuit board. The project file, for example Multivibrator.PrjPCB, is an ASCII file that lists the documents in the project as well as other project-level settings, such as the required electrical rule checks, project preferences, and project outputs, such as print and CAM settings.

A new project is created by running the File » New » Project command to open the Create Project dialog.

Create Project dialog


Adding a Schematic to the Project

The next step is to add a new schematic sheet to the project.

Add a schematic sheet to the project, name and save the schematic, and save the project.
Add a schematic sheet to the project, name and save the schematic, and save the project.

When the blank schematic sheet opens, you will notice that the design space changes. The main menus bar includes new items, and a bar with buttons becomes visible – you are now in the Schematic Editor. Each editor presents its own set of menus and panels and supports its own set of shortcut keys.

An entire set of grouped panels can be closed using the Close panels button icon at the top right of the panel, and an individual panel can be closed by right-clicking on its name and selecting the Close command. When needed, a panel can be reopened via the Panels button button at the bottom right of the application window. Alternatively, press the F4 shortcut to hide/display all floating panels.


Setting the Document Options

Main page: Setting Up a Schematic Document

Before you start drawing your circuit, it's good to set up the appropriate document options, including the Sheet Size, and the Snap and Visible grids.

Document options are configured for each schematic sheet, set the sheet size as required.
Document options are configured for each schematic sheet, set the sheet size as required.

As well as the technique described in the collapsible section below, the Properties in its Document Options can also be accessed by double-clicking in the sheet border.

Environment options, such as the cursor type, selection color, and autopan behavior, are configured in the Preferences dialog (click the Gear icon used to open the Preferences dialog button located at the top right of the application window or select the Tools » Preferences command from the main menus).

With the project and schematic document created, the next step is searching for the required components and saving them to your connected Workspace.
Note

The features available depend on your level of Altium Designer Software Subscription.

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