In DEX you can only route existing nets. You cannot add tracks by themselves; you need to add a net.
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A net is normally automatically created from a node in the schematic. A node is a collection of 1 or more wires connecting at least 2 terminals on schematic symbols on 1 or more schematic sheets. This maintains electrical integrity.
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Schematics have nodes, PCBs have nets. Nodes map 1 to 1 to nets. So once terminals are connected you can route the net on the PCB.
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A net is a connection between 2 or more pads on a PCB.
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A net is 1 or more tracks.
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Tracks can be un-routed, partially routed or fully routed.
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Tracks MUST end on either a pad, a via or a track terminal.
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Vias must connect to 2 or more tracks on different layers. The DEX optimizer removes redundant vias.
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Track terminals must connect to 3 or more tracks all on the same layer. The DEX optimizer removes redundant track junctions.
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Vias and track junctions are automatically created. You cannot manually add a via or track junction.
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Vias are automatically added when you switch layers by pressing the ‘space’ bar while manually routing.
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Selecting a routed track segment and clicking on the ‘space’ bar will switch the layer of the track segment. You can repeat this on several segment. The DEX optimizer will automatically remove excess vias.
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DEX will ensure that tracks connect on the correct layer for SMT pads.
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To automatically route a track, click on the auto-route button.
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To manually route a track, double click on it. This is how you would edit a polyline in DEX.
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Once double clicked, you are in manual route. So click away, press the ‘space’ bar to swap layers, double click or press ‘Esc’ to end.
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Auto-diming (if enabled) will dim all the other tracks that are not being routed, leaving your chosen track ‘highlighted’. This allows you to ‘see the wood for the trees’.
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The smart pan will kick in and automatically adjust the view as you route.
DEX cannot leave dangling wires on schematics or dangling tracks on PCBs. Other programs do, in my view, this is ‘criminal’.
