How do I add Intlib to Altium?

Adding an Integrated Library (.IntLib) to Altium is a straightforward process that involves either installing it directly to your Libraries panel or extracting its source files into a project. Here's how:

Methods to Add an .IntLib to Altium:

1. Direct Installation via Double-Click or Drag-and-Drop:

   • Simply double-click the downloaded .IntLib file.
   • Alternatively, you can drag and drop the .IntLib file directly into the Altium Designer environment. This usually opens a pop-up window prompting you to install or extract.

2. Using the Pop-up Window Options:

   After double-clicking or dragging and dropping, a pop-up window will appear presenting you with two options:

   • Install Library: This option installs the library directly and adds it to your Libraries panel. This makes the library components readily available for placement in your designs. This is the most common and recommended method.
   • Extract Sources: This option allows you to open the library into the Projects panel as an Integrated Library project. This gives you access to the source documents (schematic libraries, PCB libraries) used to create the integrated library. You can then examine or modify these source files if needed (advanced users).

Step-by-Step Instructions (Install Library - Recommended):

1. Locate the .IntLib File: Find the .IntLib file you wish to add to Altium.
2. Double-Click or Drag-and-Drop: Double-click the file, or drag it into the Altium Designer window.
3. Choose "Install Library": In the pop-up window, select the "Install Library" option.
4. Verify Installation: Open the "Libraries" panel in Altium Designer (usually found on the right-hand side). The installed library should now be listed and its components available for use. If the Libraries panel is not visible, go to View > Panels > Libraries.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Extract Sources - For Advanced Users):

1. Locate the .IntLib File: Find the .IntLib file you wish to extract.
2. Double-Click or Drag-and-Drop: Double-click the file, or drag it into the Altium Designer window.
3. Choose "Extract Sources": In the pop-up window, select the "Extract Sources" option.
4. Project Creation: Altium will create a new project containing the source schematic and PCB library files.
5. Accessing Source Files: The project will appear in the "Projects" panel. You can now access and modify the individual library components.

Important Considerations:

• Library Panel: The Libraries panel is the central location for managing and accessing your installed libraries.
• Library Paths: Sometimes, manually adding the library path in the Libraries panel (Project > Add Library > From File) might be necessary if the installation doesn't automatically add it. This is rare, but a good troubleshooting step.
• Integrated vs. Database Libraries: This process is for Integrated Libraries (.IntLib). If you are working with Database Libraries, the setup process is different and involves connecting to an external database.
• Troubleshooting: If the components are not appearing in the Libraries panel after installation, ensure the library is "active" (checkbox selected) in the Libraries panel.