Useful Programs
This section contains software I use and recommend. I use Windows, but Mac and Linux versions may be available.
General
Notepad++ is a powerful text/programming editor. It can highlight syntax for a number of programming languages, copy columns of text in a document and many other features. This is a free program.
Irfanview is an imagine editor that works with a variety of image formats and can convert between formats. Additional formats can be handled with optional modules. This is a free program.
This program allows printing graph paper in a variety of formats including cartesian, polar, log, isometric grids and even music staffs, with many customization features. Very handy to quickly print exactly the paper you need, This is a free program.
PCB Design and Layout
Schematic capture and pcb layout program provided by JLCPCB. This is a full-feature, truly easy-to-use layout program. The symbol/footprint library is huge, and EagleCAD libraries are easy to import. Cloud-based and local versions are available. The program allows laying out boards of any size, features an extensive component library and Gerber files are just a click away so you can have boards manufactured at any fab house you like. Ordering pcbs from JLCPCB is a simple operation, and it makes using JLC's low cost assembly service a snap.
I recommend the standard version rather than the pro version if you're not laying out extremely complex boards.
This parametric search engine allows simple searching for components included in the JLC assembly service. It greatly simplifies finding and selecting the right components for a project. Highly recommended. This Hack-A-Day article explains this application in detail.
This tool allows verifying circuit board Gerber files before sending them for fab. Helps ensure a working board when it comes. Includes various analysis tools.
This utility aids in designing low pass, high pass and bandpass filters in several topologies.
This Android app is highly recommended. It includes many calculators, connector pinouts, an ASCII table and many references. The few bucks for the pro version is money well-spent.
