I have the following Ultiboard/Multisim questions:

Question

I have the following Ultiboard/Multisim questions:
1. I am trying to create a part footprint and need to place rectangular shaped pins, the only thing I can find are round pins with different shape solder pads. I see where you can place a rectangular hole but this does not have the solder pad around the hole on the top and bottom layers as does the place pin command.
2. Is it possible to import a DFX file containing pin placement drawing and use it in the creation of a new part footprint?
3. How can you change the layer of a particular object? For example let's say you have drawn a trace or solder pad on the top solder layer and it really needed to be on the bottom layer. I would think there is a way to simply select the object and changes its layer designation/color to a different one.
4. I have downloaded Multisim symbol files and Ultiboard footprint files from Analog Devices web site. Where should I place the files? Be nice!!!
5. The microcontroller MSP 430 simulation model or part in Multisim is a very old model is there a way to obtain the footprint and simulation model/symbol for the newer variant.

Answer 1

Hi there,
Here are the answers to your questions.
I. Placing a rectangular pin (with a rectangular drillhole):
To change the hole shape that is used for the pin, you must first place the pin.  While creating/editing the footprint,
From the menu, select Place > Pins
Click OK (you can customize dimensions later)
Double-click on the pin and select the Pad tab in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog
Under Hole, select Advanced hole
Select the Hole tab and choose Square/Rectangle.  Click OK.
Customize the Pad Size
II. Importing DXF file
It is certainly possible to import DXF files in Ultiboard (depending on the type of DXF file), but it depends on the program/version that generated the dxf file.
III. Changing the layer of an object
Double-click on the object and select the Position tab and you can select the layer to move the object to.
IV.  Importing Analog Devices files
The symbols are in .prz format.  To import these files, please see this Knowledge Zone article:
How to Import and Export Components in Multisim
To import the footprints, please see this forum thread:
http://forums.ni.com/ni/board/message?board.id=370&message.id=3536&query.id=139276#M3536
V. Microcontroller
The MSP430 in Multisim is still active, but perhaps is a different version that the one you want.  The one is in the database in the one found here: http://focus.ti.com/docs/prod/folders/print/msp430p325.html.  I suggest you post the one you are looking for in the NI Circuit Design Community.  Someone may have the symbol/footprint you are looking for, or may be able to locate it.
Message Edited by NatashaB on 11-05-2009 10:39 AM
Natasha Baker
R&D Engineer
National Instruments
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