Orcad 16.6 Tutorial

is a foundational electronic design automation (EDA) software suite from Cadence that combines several powerful modules: Capture for schematic entry, PSpice for circuit simulation, and PCB Editor for board layout and routing. While newer versions exist, 16.6 remains widely used in academic settings and industry due to its reliability and extensive support resources. This tutorial will guide you through the entire design flow from installation, schematic capture, simulation, to PCB layout in OrCAD 16.6.

: Use the Place > Wire tool to connect pins. Ensure your nets have logical names (e.g., VCC, GND) for easier layout routing. orcad 16.6 tutorial

Not all components are in the default libraries. To add a custom SPICE model (e.g., a specific Zener diode): : Use the Place > Wire tool to connect pins

Before you draw a single wire, you must understand how OrCAD manages files. Unlike many programs, OrCAD organizes work into a specific directory structure. To add a custom SPICE model (e

: Go to Tools > Design Rules Check . Enable Check input filters and Check duplicate/invalid component names . Click OK . Review the generated text report thoroughly to fix any floating pins or short circuits. 3. Preparing for PCB Layout

Go to to configure your layer stackup (e.g., a standard 4-layer board with Top, GND, Power, and Bottom layers).

Every schematic symbol needs a corresponding footprint name that matches the OrCAD PCB Editor library.