Roger Lascelles' Site

TinyCAD Rescue Guide

Why use TinyCAD ?

• Simple Windows standard operation.
• Clear schematics print well.
• Netlist export to Protel format.
• Multisheet schematics for big projects.

Get a Stable Version

TinyCAD quality does vary. For the best result, download and install TinyCAD V2.10.0.0 or V2.50.0.0. Then download this special V2.20.1.0 version of TinyCAD.exe to replace the installed file. The remaining bugs are minimal:

• Some wire moves and deletes cause a crash.
• Design rule check displays incorrectly on multi sheet projects.

Use the Library

TinyCAD supplied libraries have faults like off-grid, poorly scaled, mismatched symbols with incorrect netlist attributes and missing package attributes. The VCAD installed files include a small TinyCAD library to get you started.

Multisheet Schematics

• To avoid duplicate component designators, name parts on sheet 1 as R101..R102 etc and on sheet 2 as R201..R202 etc.
• To join nets across sheets, use same net name with Power symbols or net Labels.

Avoid Random Connectivity and Netlist Errors

• Draw all library components with Snap to Grid turned on and fine grid spacing; do not set a user defined spacing.
• You may have to redraw libraries supplied by others.
• Edit your schematic with Snap to Grid turned on and fine grid spacing; do not set a user defined spacing.

VCAD Page