PCB Calculator for PADS Users
Siemens PADS Professional | No HyperLynx Required
Siemens PADS (formerly Mentor Graphics) is a professional PCB design tool. While HyperLynx provides advanced SI analysis, our free calculator offers essential trace width, via current, and impedance calculations without additional licensing costs.
PADS vs TraceWidthCalculator
| Feature | PADS / HyperLynx | TraceWidthCalculator |
|---|---|---|
| Trace Width Calculator | Via constraints | Full IPC-2221 |
| Via Current Calculator | HyperLynx (extra) | Free, built-in |
| Impedance Calculator | HyperLynx required | Free, IPC-2141 |
| Differential Impedance | HyperLynx required | Free, built-in |
| Quick Calculations | Complex setup | Instant results |
| Mobile Access | Desktop only | Any device |
When to Use Our Calculator with PADS
Without HyperLynx
Not every PADS seat includes HyperLynx. Our calculator provides essential SI calculations for designs that don't require full simulation capabilities.
Quick Pre-Layout
Before starting layout in PADS, quickly determine trace width requirements for different current levels. Set up constraints before routing begins.
Design Verification
Double-check PADS constraint values with an independent calculator. Useful during design reviews or when verifying existing designs.
About Siemens PADS
PADS (formerly from Mentor Graphics, now Siemens EDA) is a professional PCB design suite used by many companies for mainstream PCB design. It includes PADS Professional for advanced designs and PADS Standard for simpler projects.
For signal integrity analysis, Siemens offers HyperLynx as an integrated solution. While powerful, it requires additional licensing and setup time for basic calculations.
TraceWidthCalculator provides a free, instant alternative for common calculations that don't require full simulation.
Siemens PADS Products
Free with TraceWidthCalculator
Complement Your PADS Workflow
Free IPC-2221 calculations without HyperLynx licensing. Professional results for trace width, via current, and impedance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this replace HyperLynx?
For basic trace width and impedance calculations, yes. For advanced simulation (S-parameters, eye diagrams, crosstalk), HyperLynx is still needed.
Do results match PADS/HyperLynx?
Both use industry-standard formulas. Results should be very close for equivalent inputs and stackup parameters.
How do I apply results in PADS?
Set calculated values in PADS Constraint Manager or define design rules with appropriate trace widths for different net classes.
Is this affiliated with Siemens?
No. TraceWidthCalculator is an independent, free tool. PADS and HyperLynx are trademarks of Siemens Digital Industries Software.
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