Diptrace is awesome!

[nikthefix]

The DipTrace guys got so much right - and those things that aren't right are merely those features which have not yet been implemented...

Wish list:

1. Rotate a component or group around a user defined pivot point. The board origin would be fine enough.

2. Allow copy matrix AND radial placement for all entities - useful on the assembly layer for generating construction geometries, particularly for polar pattern layouts.

3. Allow us to 'solo' a layer, muting all others for editing - so we don't have to go to Edit Selection to avoid messing up the wrong layer. Locking layers to be safe doesn't work as cursor unlocking regions unlocks all layers in the region.

4. Allow for migration of user settings between version updates. My grid options and 3D board view colours are always reset - as are the dependent user libs file locations.

5. Export STEP in 3D view to include the copper and silk layers as thin 3D layers as an option - KiCad does this and it's useful for generating artwork once imported to CAD.

6. A way to auto-generate optimally curved traces from 90/45 routing (or a bevel option for individual nodes).

7. A corner radius tool for rectangular shapes - or even a scissor tool to delete unwanted construction geometry between nodes.

8. Automatic snap to the center point of regular geometries.

9. And most important for me when drawing - a snappable node created automatically when 2 lines intersect.
For radial layouts the intersection of construction lines are the homing points for component placement. Would be great if we could snap to them.

10. For you to keep developing what I recon is the best PCB CAD out there.

nik

[TheresaEllison]

Absolutely agree with you, nikthefix! DipTrace really nails a lot of the fundamentals, and your wish list highlights features that would take it from great to exceptional.

Especially points like user-defined pivot rotation, layer solo/mute, and snappable intersection nodes would massively improve workflow and precision. The STEP export with copper and silkscreen layers would also be a game-changer for integrating with mechanical CAD tools.

It’s clear the team has built something solid, and with these additions, DipTrace could easily outpace many competitors. Fingers crossed they implement some of these soon!