How Do I Change a Via in Altium?

You can change a via's properties in Altium by accessing the Properties panel and modifying the desired parameters. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Select the Via: Click on the via you wish to modify in the Altium workspace.

2. Access the Properties Panel: Press the Tab key to bring up the Properties panel. If the Properties panel is already visible, selecting the via should populate the panel with its properties. Alternatively, you can find the Properties panel under View > Panels > Properties.

3. Modify Properties: In the Properties panel, you can change various aspects of the via, including:

   • Layer(s): Change the start and end layers of the via. The via structure will update based on the selected layers. This essentially changes which layers the via connects.
   • Size/Diameter: Adjust the diameter of the via hole and the pad diameter.
   • Shape: Some vias may allow you to adjust pad shapes, such as round, square, or octagon.
   • Net: Change the net the via is connected to.
   • Via Type/Style: Select from pre-defined via styles, if available.

4. Apply Changes: The changes you make in the Properties panel are typically applied immediately.

Example:

Let's say you need to change a via from connecting Top Layer to Bottom Layer to connecting Top Layer to MidLayer1.

1. Select the via.
2. Press Tab to open the Properties Panel.
3. In the Properties Panel, locate the "Layer" or "Layers" section.
4. Change the "Bottom Layer" setting to "MidLayer1."
5. The via will now only connect the Top Layer to MidLayer1.

By using the Properties panel, you can customize vias to meet the specific requirements of your PCB design.