The first thing we need to do is set our units. When you create a new PCB Library file, the library will create a blank footprint for your PCB layout (named PCBCOMPONENT_1) by default. You’ll also need to add new components to your PCB Library file. This will add a new PCB component footprint library to your project. In Altium Footprint Designer, under File → New → Library → PCB Library. For this example, let’s use the popular PIC24FJ64GA004 microcontroller. This component is packaged in a 44-lead plastic thin quad flatpack. You will need the landing pattern for your part, which can be found towards the end of the component datasheet or in your chosen database library. Here’s how to create your footprint design in Altium Designer in 4 easy steps: Step 1: Create the Pads Let’s step through the process to see how easy it can be to create your component footprint. How to Create a Component Footprint in Altium DesignerĬomponent footprint generation is done in Altium Footprint Designer by following these 4 steps: Here's how to use Altium to create footprint for your design components. With Altium Designer ®, on the other hand, component footprint generation is quick with powerful CAD tools. With some PCB design software packages, this can be a difficult task that comes with a steep learning curve before you become proficient. However, this is not always the case and invariably you will at some point have to create your own footprints. When designing your PCB circuit board you can sometimes rely upon a program part to provide you with an accurate footprint for your part. If the footprint is incorrect, the part pins may not align with PCB pads or the part may violate clearance or spacing rules that could lead to significant loss of time and additional cost. In some cases, footprint generation may need to be done by yourself, and you’ll need to use information directly from the component’s datasheet.

Some components are quite common or they come in standardized packages, making footprints easy to find. When laying out your printed circuit board, it is critical that you know how to create footprint for your design components.

Altium qfn footprint library