Rather than using a separate data store for each of the various design domains, the UDM is structured to accommodate all information from all aspects of the design, including the components and their connectivity. Data within the model can then be accessed and manipulated using the various editors and services within the software. Through the automatic instance of dynamic compilation, a single, cohesive model is created, which sits central to the design process. The Unified Data ModelĪ fundamental element of the software is the Unified Data Model (UDM). When you manually compile your schematic project ( Project » Validated PCB Project), the function checks for logical, electrical, and drafting errors between the Unified Data Model (UDM) and compiler settings. So what is dynamic compilation and why does the design need to be compiled? Why compile, and what is the Unified Data Model? Or perhaps you are checking the connectivity, locating critical nets and examining where they have been routed.įor tasks such as these, you need to find objects in the target document based on objects you can see in the source document.Ĭross probing, cross-selecting and the Navigator panel are some of the ways you can work between the schematic and PCB documents. Perhaps you are preparing for placement, clustering related components around the periphery of the board as you examine your layout options. A key element to working efficiently is being able to move fluidly back and forth between the schematic and the board layout as you perform the various design tasks.

As the designer, you need design-oriented tools that help to efficiently complete the many design tasks needed to get your product made. However, designing is much more than just having easy access to design files.

For example, a click in the Projects panel opens a schematic sheet, another click opens the PCB and another click opens the OutputJob file showing all the outputs you need to generate from the completed board. One of the great strengths of Altium Designer is how easily you can move between the various elements of your design.

Altium schematic to pcb