TinyCAD
An open source schematic capture program for MS Windows.
Overview
TinyCAD is a simple and lightweight open-source schematic capture software for Windows. It allows users to draw circuit diagrams, check for errors, and export netlists in various formats for use with PCB layout software. It comes with several symbol libraries and allows for the creation of custom symbols.
✨ Key Features
- Schematic drawing
- Symbol library creation
- Hierarchical schematic design
- Netlist export for PCB design (e.g., to FreePCB)
- Design rule checking
- Free and open-source
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Extremely lightweight and simple
- Very easy to learn for absolute beginners
- Focuses on doing one thing well: schematic capture
Unique Value: Provides the absolute simplest and most lightweight tool for drawing basic electronic schematics on Windows, for free.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Drawing and documenting simple electronic circuits for free.
- Creating netlists to import into basic PCB layout software.
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Industrial electrical control design
- Any form of automated reporting or panel layout
- Complex, multi-sheet projects
🏆 Alternatives
While far less powerful than KiCad or QElectroTech, its simplicity can be an advantage for users who are intimidated by the complexity of more advanced tools.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Fully-featured, no limits.
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