Enhanced Schematic Capture

The schematic editor in EAGLE has been updated with several usability enhancements:

Improved Symbol Search

Finding the right schematic symbols is now faster and easier with the improved library search functionality. You can search by keyword across all libraries and quickly place symbols from the search results.

Updated Symbol Graphics

Many of the schematic symbols have been redrawn for better readability and a more modern appearance. Pin layouts of standard parts like resistors and capacitors are arranged more intuitively.

Automated Electrical Rule Checks

Real-time electrical rule checks (ERC) identify potential issues as you draw the schematic, helping avoid common errors. The ERC engine has been updated to detect a wider range of problems.

PCB Layout Enhancements

The PCB layout editor includes major updates to streamline the board design process:

New Routing Features

EAGLE’s autorouter has been completely revamped, with a new topology-based routing algorithm that is significantly faster and produces cleaner results with fewer vias. Manual routing is also enhanced, with quick access to layers, trace widths, and Via sizes.

Routing Parameter	Previous Version	New Version
Autorouter completion rate	85%	98%
Autorouter runtime (100 nets)	30 sec	10 sec
Manual routing shortcuts	5	12

Dynamic Copper Pour

Copper pour zones can now be defined as dynamic – the shape automatically adjusts as you move components and route traces. This is a huge time-saver compared to manually re-pouring after every layout change.

Updated Footprint Libraries

The collection of component footprints has been expanded, with a focus on newer surface-mount parts. Many existing footprints have been fine-tuned for better manufacturability. A footprint editor allows you to create custom footprints.

Library Management

Keeping your EAGLE parts and footprint libraries organized is much easier with these new capabilities:

Hierarchical Libraries

You can now organize schematic symbols and footprints into subfolders within each library. This makes it simple to manage large collections of parts.

Automatic Library Updating

EAGLE can now download and install library updates automatically, ensuring you always have access to the latest parts. You can choose which libraries to auto-update.

Library Editor Enhancements

The library editor has several new features to simplify creation and editing of schematic symbols and footprints, including a more intuitive user interface, better error checking, and command-line editing of device parameters.

Manufacturing Outputs

Preparing manufacturing files is faster and produces more consistent results thanks to these updates:

Intelligent BOM Export

Bill of Materials (BOM) generation is much smarter – identical parts are automatically grouped together, and you have control over column naming and ordering. BOMs can be exported in CSV, Excel, and PDF formats.

Improved CAM Processor

The CAM Processor, which generates the Gerber and drill files required for PCB Fabrication, has been updated for compatibility with the latest industry standards. You can now define custom layer stackups and drill sizes.

3D Model Export

You can now export a 3D model of your complete PCB design in STEP format, suitable for mechanical integration and visualization. The exported model includes accurate component bodies taken from the footprint definitions.

New Licensing Options

In addition to the traditional perpetual license, EAGLE is now also available as a subscription:

License Type	Price	Includes
Perpetual	$1295	1 year of updates
Subscription	$15/month or $100/year	Continuous updates

The subscription option lowers the entry cost and ensures you can always use the latest version of EAGLE.

FAQ

What are the system requirements for this new EAGLE version?

This update requires Windows 10/11, macOS 10.15 or later, or 64-bit Linux. A minimum of 8GB RAM and 2GB of free disk space are recommended.

Can I open designs created in older EAGLE versions?

Yes, this new EAGLE update is fully backwards compatible. It can open designs saved in EAGLE versions as old as 5.0. However, once saved in the new version format, older EAGLE releases will not be able to open the file.

Are my existing EAGLE libraries compatible?

Your custom EAGLE libraries will work with this new update, although it is recommended to update them using the new library editor for optimal performance and forward compatibility.

What if I find a bug or have a feature request?

You can report bugs or suggest features through EAGLE’s online support portal. The development team reviews all submissions and prioritizes updates based on user impact and technical feasibility.

How can I learn more about the new features?

The EAGLE website has detailed documentation on the new features and enhancements. There are also tutorial videos and a user forum where you can ask questions and share knowledge with other EAGLE users.

This major EAGLE update brings PCB design to the next level with its significant enhancements to schematic capture, layout and routing, library management, and manufacturing outputs. Both new and experienced EAGLE users will appreciate the improved performance, ease of use, and expanded capabilities. The new subscription licensing option makes it more affordable than ever to use this industry-leading PCB design software.