I would like to print out the PCB’s edge cut + footprints. My goal is to overlay the chips I want to use to make sure the footprints are correct. I cannot find an easy way to do this. I guess I could make multiple pdf layers, but then i’m not sure how to make one file so that it shows an edge with the outline of footprints w/ pads. I looked at printing, but it only works w/ layering and not rendering the footprints + pads.
Is there an easy way to do this?
thank you.
I can see what you’re looking for. Try using File->Plot then select a good format (I used PDF, not sure how long that’s been an option). Only select the F.Mask layer and make sure “Negative plot” and “Exclude PCB edge layer from other layers” are NOT ticked. That will give you a PDF with all the holes in the solder mask (i.e. where pads are) in black with the board outline and it should be accurate scale. It won’t give separate squares for pads on most surface-mount ICs though.
Thanks Nathan. Your suggestion is “good enough” for what i want.
This is a common task, printing multiple layers on same sheet. Usually useful for the fabrication drawings.
The way to do it is to click the “Print board” icon (printer) next to Plot icon. The printer dialog will open where you can select layers and customize your print. Check “Single page” radio button (top-right of the window) and it will print all selected layers stacked together.
P.S. I find printing and viewing fabrication outputs using Gerbview easier and more user friendly. Plot your layers to Gerbers from Pcbnew and then open them with Gerbview. Unfortunately, it seems that there is no similar ‘single page’ print option in Gerbview