A PCB filter, in the context of PCB design software, is a tool or panel that allows you to quickly and easily highlight specific types of PCB objects on any physical board layer. It simplifies the selection and visibility of elements based on various criteria.
How PCB Filters Work
PCB filters operate by applying a set of rules or criteria to the objects present on a PCB layout. Based on these rules, objects can be:
- Highlighted: Visually emphasized for easy identification.
- Masked: Temporarily hidden from view.
- Selected: Grouped together for editing or manipulation.
Key Functionality
The main purpose of a PCB filter is to streamline the process of finding and working with specific elements on a complex PCB design. Common functionalities include:
- Object Type Filtering: Select or highlight specific object types like traces, vias, pads, components, text, polygons, etc.
- Layer Filtering: Restrict the filter's operation to one or more specific layers of the PCB.
- Property-Based Filtering: Filter based on the properties of objects, such as net name, component designator, layer, size, or electrical characteristics.
- Query-Based Filtering: Use logical expressions or queries to define complex filtering criteria. For example, filtering all traces with a specific impedance or all components with a specific value.
Benefits of Using PCB Filters
- Improved Efficiency: Quickly locate and select specific objects, saving time and effort.
- Reduced Errors: Minimize the risk of accidental modification of unintended objects.
- Enhanced Visualization: Improve the clarity of the PCB layout by highlighting specific elements.
- Simplified Design Rule Checks (DRC): Assist in identifying and correcting design rule violations by filtering specific areas or object types.
- Easier Component Placement & Routing: Simplify the process of placing components and routing traces in dense layouts.
Examples of PCB Filter Use Cases
- Highlighting all power traces on a specific layer to verify their width.
- Selecting all components with a specific footprint to change their orientation.
- Masking all signal traces to focus on the power distribution network.
- Finding all unconnected pins to identify potential wiring errors.
- Selecting all vias with a specific diameter for a specific net.
