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What is the EWB_layout Field in Multisim?

Primary Software: Electronics Workbench>>Multisim
Primary Software Version: 9.x
Primary Software Fixed Version: 9.x
Secondary Software: Electronics Workbench>>Ultiboard

Problem:

I have noticed that when the Select a Footprint dialog box is open, there is an EWB_layout column.

What is it used for? Why is there a footprint listed in the Footprint column different from the one listed in the EWB_layout column? Why in other footprints is there only one footprint listed in the Footprint column and none listed in the EWB_layout column?

PLEASE NOTE: That this KB applies for version 9 and prior. In Version 10 and higher, EWB_layout was replaced by Ultiboard Footprint.

Solution:

Before explaining what the EWB_layout field means, lets introduce another topic that will help understand its use. Some manufacturers use their own internal naming convention for Footprints and drawings. As an example, lets take the LM393M from National Semiconductor, its datasheet informs that the package for this component is MO8A. Which is listed as a NSC Drawing. However, the datasheet informs that the MO8A package is equivalent to the SO8 package.

If you place that component on your schematic in Multisim, you will notice that -looking at its properties- the Footprint used is the MO8A, and usually you will use this information when ordering your component. If you transfer your schematic to Ultiboard for PCB layout, you will notice that the Footprint changed to SO8. The reason for this change is that the MO8A Footprint is equivalent to a SO8 standard Footprint drawing.

The EWB_layout column is used to determine when a Footprint is to be replaced by a standard one when transferring your design to Ultiboard. There will be no such Footprint MO8A (for example) in the Ultiboard database however there will be the standard SO8. Please Note that this does not affects your Bill Of Materials information, which will reflect the correct package info for your records. If you really want to use your component manufacturers naming then in Ultiboard you can create a new Footprint by copying the SO8 for this particular example purposes.

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Report Date: 11/30/2006
Last Updated: 04/25/2008
Document ID: 43TAESXL

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