
It will not take much of a project to exceed the limitations of either programs beginner editions and by then it will be too late.


Both are commercial programs and are severely limited. Hi! IMO, neither Eagle nor DipTrace are appropriate software for hobbyist EDA. to moderator: Captha doesn't work on password reminder (always says it is incorrect), so I have registered new account. Also this version will have new pattern libraries (+ all patterns have standartized names, which are similar to patterns inside component libraries). In the next release (2.2) we add net classes with multiple rules set, strict via styles to easily handle blind/buried vias, 3D preview and significantly improve manual routing + many minor improvements. Also all libraries/designs are separate files (you operates with them like with all other windows files). when you change footpring in some library - it will not be automatically changed in schematic/pcb files where you placed it (you can update it manually though). Currently each program has independent data, i.e. We plan to redesign library/file connection/search system in version 2.3 (maybe will also add project file which unites all data and updates automatically). They also have a few issues with the way they handle their library folders. Handling a large bom is a bit of trouble. The PCB design and Schematic is ok, but coordination between the four editor programs (pcb, schematic, component, design) is lacking in some regards.
