SalixEDA Features

SalixEDA is an integrated electronics design system focused on rapid development and reuse of solutions.

Single project file

The project is a single entity: the schematic, components, and board are all stored in one file. This simplifies transfer and storage — just copy one file.

Components are fixed within the project. Changes to the library do not affect already completed projects. If necessary, components can be updated with conflict resolution.

Schematic-to-board connection

The schematic and PCB are synchronized automatically in real time. Adding components and nets is instantly reflected on the board.

This allows changes to be made right during the routing process, without performing additional synchronization steps.

Component libraries

The system uses a combined component storage model, including a local library, a global repository, and a private cloud.

The local library is automatically populated with components from opened projects. Just open someone else's project — and all the components used in it become available in your library.

Components can be created directly during the design process. After creation, a component is finalized and saved to the library with a version indicator (based on creation time).

The system tracks library changes automatically: when files are added or copied from outside, new components are detected and registered without any additional user actions.

The global repository is a public component library available to all users. It contains components published by their authors.

Each user is automatically provided with a private cloud that synchronizes with the local library.

The private cloud enables:

  • synchronizing components across different computers
  • working from different locations (home, work, etc.)
  • organizing collaborative work

For collaboration, simply share the cloud ID — after that, the libraries of all participants will automatically synchronize with each other in near real time.

Fragments and reusable solutions

You can create a library of fragments — ready-made circuit solutions — and reuse them across projects.

When inserting a component, the system can suggest an existing fragment that uses it.

Circuit calculations

Calculation formulas can be embedded into the schematic and linked to component parameters.

This allows automatic calculation of component values and simplifies design.

One schematic — multiple boards

Within a single project, you can use one schematic for several PCBs.

Regions are defined on the schematic, each corresponding to a separate board.

Components that fall into a region are automatically placed on the corresponding board.

Publishing and sharing

Fragments can be exported to a text format that can be embedded into an HTML page.

A user can copy such a fragment directly from the browser and paste it into a project without downloading any files.

Editing

Working with multiple projects and windows simultaneously is supported.

Batch operations and "smart" editing modes are available, simplifying routine tasks.

Component placement

During component placement on the board, you can select components directly from the schematic.

This speeds up workflow and reduces the number of errors.

Routing

The system does not have a classic automatic router. The main focus is on convenience and speed of manual routing.

A semi-automatic mode is used: the user starts routing a trace, and the system suggests a way to complete it.

After each cursor movement, the suggested option is recalculated automatically. The screen simultaneously displays:

  • the trace being routed by the user
  • the completion option suggested by the system

The user can accept the suggested option or continue routing manually. This approach allows full control over the routing process while significantly speeding it up.

Multilayer PCBs are supported:

  • up to 30 layers
  • through-hole vias
  • blind vias

Routing rules

The system uses routing rules that define clearances and other constraints.

Rules are defined at two levels:

  • general rules for the entire board
  • individual rules for specific nets

If a net does not have its own rules defined, the board rules are used.

Rules are automatically enforced by the system and cannot be violated during routing.

3D modeling

The built-in parametric editor allows you to create 3D models of components.

Model import is supported (VRML, STL).

Manufacturing

The system provides all necessary data for PCB manufacturing and device assembly.

Export is supported for:

  • GERBER — for PCB fabrication
  • ASM — input file for automatic component placement machines

Project documentation is generated:

  • BOM (Bill of Materials)

General features

  • open source code
  • cross-platform (Windows, Linux)
  • multilingual interface support