Making Parts Just Got Easier: Introducing Parametric Symbols

That’s why, today, we’re introducing parametrically programmable schematic symbols in Flux. 

Parametrically Programmable Schematic Symbols

In modern EDA tools, creating schematics and symbols entails a manual process of drawing rectangles, squares, and lines with a mouse and cursor. Too often, we fight with symbols because they’re so hard to modify. It can feel impossible to create any sort of sane signal convention. Interconnections and signal flow ultimately devolve into lines leaving your symbol’s pins in seemingly random order and direction. How is anyone supposed to make sense of these schematics?

Flux's parametric symbols change how we view schematic symbols by offering you customization and flexibility. With parametric symbols, your team can better organize your schematic symbols by grouping pins based on functionality and logical connection, without needing to physically draw the symbol. Want all GPIO to be grouped together? Maybe you want all power pins to be on the left side of the symbol? Or, do you want all ADC channel pins to be next to each other?

Parametric symbols enable your team to make designs organized and readable. The result is a symbol that isn’t just a square with some lines, it’s a neatly organized, clearly partitioned set of functions that can be easily interpreted by anyone on the team and beyond. Don’t fight with rigid symbols. Instead, organize your symbol as you want, make the signal flow clear and intuitive, and end up with a schematic design that is simple to understand.

Parametric symbols also introduce unprecedented levels of flexibility and customization. Unlike conventional symbols that need to be completely redrawn by hand if changes are desired, parametric symbols are configurable on the fly. No more hassle and wasted time using a drawing tool to rearrange pins.  

How to Use Parametric Symbols in Flux

At Flux, we believe your design should be declarative, not imperative. You should tell your symbols how they could behave - not the other way around. Parametric symbols are our first step in realizing this reality.

Creating parametric symbols in Flux is as simple as filling out property fields in the Inspector Panel. 4 properties determine how the symbol arranges itself:

• Section: What classification of pin are you working with? Is it a control pin, or a power pin? The “Section” property allows you to define this for each pin on the symbol. Visually, pins will be segmented into their own block in the symbol.
• Pin Group: Within your pin Section, you may want to partition things further, for example, based on the register. Pin Group allows you to specify how the pins are organized within your section. Visually, pins will be placed closer together.
• Pin Orientation: Where do you want the pin located? Left or Right? This property defines where the pin should be placed.
• Terminal Order: Do you have more important pins or want to reposition a section vertically? Terminal order specifies how pins are laid out from top to bottom. 

Once the symbol is created, it can be changed easily by redefining properties to your liking. That means that symbols are dynamic and configurable with little to no effort and wasted time.

To learn more about how to work with parametric symbols in Flux, check out the documentation page.

Declarative Design

Parametric symbols are our first step towards a truly declarative workflow with Flux. Soon, you will find declarative workflows integrated into every feature, including the PCB Editor.

Want to learn more about how to start using parametric symbols in Flux? Contact sales today.