Questions & Answers - Footprint Options on Left Panel vs Options Config

Footprint Options on Left Panel vs Options Config

Printed From: PCB Libraries Forum
Category: PCB Footprint Expert
Forum Name: Questions & Answers
Forum Description: issues and technical support
URL: https://www.PCBLibraries.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=3710
Printed Date: 19 Oct 2026 at 10:23am

Topic: Footprint Options on Left Panel vs Options Config

Posted By: Nick B
Subject: Footprint Options on Left Panel vs Options Config
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2026 at 7:48am

I need to know if there is a way, in the Footprint Expert to ensure that the options highlighted in red remain set to the shape I chose before running the "Calculate" function (in this case, the "D-shape" lead pad shape).

Here is the situation: I set up my footprint exactly as I want it, proceed through the export process for Cadence PCB, and save it to my library. When I close Footprint Expert and then reopen it - loading the same footprint from my library, the options highlighted in red revert to their default settings. Interestingly, the "Pin 1 Orientation: Upper left" setting (highlighted in green) is preserved, but the options highlighted in red are not.

Furthermore, when I open the footprint, it displays the previously created footprint, but the lead pad shape has reverted from "D-shape" to "Rounded rectangle."

What am I doing wrong?

Do not use the Calculator side panel options for production. They are intended to test option features.

1. The only data saved to FPX is:

a. Package Dimensions

b. Mfr. Recommended Pattern

c. 3D Colors assignments

d. Manually inserted drafting objects and keepouts

All other footprint features are derived for you Master Option file.

Create a master option file using "Tools > Options > File Save As > Your Name"

Example: you want D-Shaped Pads for some component families. Go to "Tools > Options > Component > QFN"

This message will appear and you select 'No' because you don’t want to affect every Component Family.

Continue to select each component family and change the pad shape.

Save your options and every time you open a QFN it will have D-Shaped pads.

-------------
Stay connected - follow us! https://twitter.com/PCBLibraries" rel="nofollow - X - http://www.linkedin.com/company/pcb-libraries-inc-/" rel="nofollow - LinkedIn