Understanding EAGLE in Fusion 360
EAGLE (Easily Applicable Graphical Layout Editor) is an essential tool for PCB design that integrates seamlessly with Autodesk’s Fusion 360 environment. Opening EAGLE within Fusion 360 is a straightforward process, allowing users to harness the capabilities of both platforms effectively. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to access and operate EAGLE within Fusion 360.
Pre-requisites for Accessing EAGLE in Fusion 360
Before beginning the process, ensure that you have the following:
- Fusion 360 Subscription: Starting from January 7th, 2020, EAGLE is included with a Fusion 360 subscription. Confirm that your license is active.
- Autodesk Account: Users need a valid Autodesk account to access EAGLE. If you don’t have one, create an account on the Autodesk website.
Steps to Open EAGLE in Fusion 360
Launch Fusion 360: Begin by opening the Fusion 360 application on your computer. Make sure you are logged in with your Autodesk account credentials.
Access the EAGLE Feature:
- Navigate to the top-right corner of the screen where your name is displayed.
- Click on your name to access the drop-down menu and select ‘Preferences’.
Enable PCB Feature:
- In the Preferences dialog box, click on the ‘Preview’ section on the left-hand side.
- Look for the checkbox labeled ‘Enable PCB Feature’ and check it. This will allow you to access EAGLE within Fusion 360.
Start a New Project:
- Once the PCB feature is enabled, return to the main workspace.
- To start a new EAGLE project, go to the ‘File’ menu, and choose ‘New’ > ‘PCB’. This will create a new PCB design file in EAGLE.
Open Existing EAGLE Files:
- If you want to open an existing EAGLE file, go to the ‘File’ menu again, then select ‘Open’.
- Browse to the location of your EAGLE file on your computer and select it. The file should load within the Fusion 360 environment.
- Utilize EAGLE’s Tools:
- After accessing the EAGLE interface, explore the various tools available for PCB design.
- Use the schematic editor to draft your circuit or the layout editor to design your PCB’s layout.
Importing Files into EAGLE
Should you need to import existing designs or components:
- Navigate to the ‘File’ menu within EAGLE.
- Choose ‘Import’ and select the format you wish to import, such as Gerber files. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the import.
FAQ
Can I use EAGLE for educational purposes?
Yes, Autodesk offers a free version of EAGLE for students. This allows access to the software under a 3-year license for educational use, provided you create an Autodesk account.
Is there a free version of EAGLE for personal use?
EAGLE provides a limited free version known as the Personal Learning License. This license is intended for hobbyists and individual users for non-commercial projects.
What are the key differences between EAGLE and KiCAD?
EAGLE is user-friendly and features well-structured tutorials, making it suitable for beginners. KiCAD, on the other hand, is open-source and doesn’t have licensing constraints, offering more flexibility for advanced users.
