OrCAD Lite

Cadence Design Systems ❘ Freeware ❘
Android Windows

OrCAD Lite: A Solid Entry-Level PCB Design Tool

David Fischer

02/12/2025

OrCAD Lite offers a robust set of features for beginner engineers and hobbyists looking to design printed circuit boards without the cost of premium software, though it comes with limitations that may not satisfy advanced users.

OrCAD Lite is a software tool developed by Cadence Design Systems that allows engineers and designers to develop and simulate electronic circuits. The software provides a platform to design, test, and create schematic diagrams of electronic circuits.

OrCAD Lite comes equipped with various features, including a selection of pre-designed schematic symbols and libraries, circuit simulation tools, and the ability to generate bill of materials (BOM) reports. Additionally, users can customize the user interface to tailor it to their specific needs.

The software offers engineers and designers a comprehensive set of tools for analyzing and optimizing the performance of electronic circuits. With its intuitive interface and powerful simulation capabilities, OrCAD Lite simplifies the design process for professionals in the electronics industry.

Whether you are a student, hobbyist, or professional in the electronics field, OrCAD Lite offers a free version that provides you with all the necessary tools to design and simulate your own electronic circuits.

Overview

OrCAD Lite is a Freeware software in the category Education developed by Cadence Design Systems.

The latest version of OrCAD Lite is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 05/04/2012.

OrCAD Lite runs on the following operating systems: Android/Windows.

OrCAD Lite has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Offers a free version (OrCAD Lite) with limited functionality, making it ideal for beginners and students
User-friendly interface for basic circuit design and simulation
Integration with PSpice simulation software for accurate modeling and analysis

Cons

Limited features compared to the full version of OrCAD, restricting the complexity of designs that can be created
Lacks advanced functionalities available in other professional circuit design software
Some users may find the learning curve steep when moving to the full version of OrCAD or similar tools

FAQ

What is OrCAD Lite?

OrCAD Lite is a free version of the OrCAD PCB design software suite offered by Cadence Design Systems. It includes a limited set of features compared to the full version but still allows for schematic capturing and PCB layout design.

What are the limitations of OrCAD Lite?

OrCAD Lite has a limited number of schematic sheets, limited number of layers for PCB layout, and limited library sizes compared to the full version. It also lacks advanced features such as differential pair routing and signal integrity analysis.

What is the difference between OrCAD Lite and OrCAD Demo?

OrCAD Demo is a fully-functional version of the software that allows for a trial period of 30 days. OrCAD Lite has some limitations compared to the demo, such as reduced library sizes and limited number of layers.

Can I use OrCAD Lite for commercial purposes?

Yes, OrCAD Lite can be used for commercial purposes, but the license agreement specifies that it is intended for educational or evaluation purposes only.

What operating systems are supported by OrCAD Lite?

OrCAD Lite is available on Windows operating systems only, including Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.

How do I download and install OrCAD Lite?

You can download OrCAD Lite from the Cadence website. The installation process is straightforward, with a wizard guiding you through the steps.

What file formats does OrCAD Lite support?

OrCAD Lite supports a wide range of file formats, including DXF, IDF, ODB++, and Gerber. It also has import/export capabilities for various CAD software formats.

Are there any online tutorials available for OrCAD Lite?

Yes, Cadence offers a wide range of online tutorials and resources for OrCAD Lite, including video tutorials, user guides, and community forums.

Can I upgrade from OrCAD Lite to the full version?

Yes, you can upgrade from OrCAD Lite to the full version of the software by purchasing a license from Cadence.

Is technical support available for OrCAD Lite?

No, technical support is not available for OrCAD Lite. However, the user community and online resources can provide assistance with common issues.

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

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