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Introducing: PADS Pro Essentials

Independent engineers and small teams are constantly seeking ways to bring their innovative ideas to life. However, the high cost and complexity of professional-grade PCB design tools have often been a barrier to entry, leaving many to settle for the limitations of free software solutions.

We are excited to introduce PADS Pro Essentials, a transformative PCB design offering that brings the power of Xpedition technology within reach of independent engineers and small projects, without the hefty price tag or steep learning curve.

Affordable entry into professional PCB design

At just $999 per year, PADS Pro Essentials provides unmatched value, making it easier for independent engineers and small teams to access professional-grade PCB design capabilities without the high cost of enterprise solutions. This affordable entry point empowers users to move beyond the constraints of free tools and leverage the reliability, precision, and scalability needed for real-world designs.

Intuitive, easy-to-use design experience

One of the key advantages of PADS Pro Essentials is its intuitive, user-friendly interface that simplifies the PCB design process, making it easier for users to transition from free tools. The guided experience ensures a smooth onboarding process, while still providing access to essential design capabilities, such as hierarchical schematics, placement, routing, dynamic plane management, and 3D visualization.

Community-driven support, monitored by Siemens experts

To ensure users get the guidance they need to bring their designs from concept to production, PADS Pro Essentials provides access to a vibrant engineering community, where Siemens experts help guide discussions and provide valuable insights.

Seamless transition to Xpedition Standard

As design complexity grows, PADS Pro Essentials provides a seamless path to Xpedition Standard for advanced PCB design without data translations or learning new tool interfaces. This allows users to effortlessly upgrade their capabilities, accessing a wider range of features, more advanced collaboration tools, and flexible token-based add-ons for pre- and post-layout signal integrity and rigid-flex.

The future of PCB design with PADS Pro Essentials

You need a professional-grade PCB design solution that can keep up with your ambitions, without the high cost or steep learning curve. PADS Pro Essentials delivers the essential capabilities, intuitive user experience, and community-driven support required to bring innovative ideas to life.

Whether you’re designing simple boards or moderately complex PCBs, PADS Pro Essentials empowers you to leverage Xpedition technology, streamline your design processes, and deliver high-quality products with confidence. Experience the future of affordable, professional PCB design and unlock your full potential with PADS Pro Essentials.

Learn more about PADS Pro Essentials and experience how it can transform your design workflows.

David Haboud
Senior Audience Marketing Manager

David Haboud bridges hardware complexity and software clarity as a Sr. Audience Manager with over a decade in EDA. Drawing from his electrical engineering background and aerospace firmware experience, David transforms technical capabilities into compelling narratives through strategic persona identification and customer segmentation. At Siemens, he specializes in connecting technical solutions with business outcomes through methodical analysis and creative communication that resonates with both engineers and business leaders. David developed his expertise at the University of Southern California with a focus on computer architecture and hardware/software integration before starting his career developing firmware and data acquisition systems for auxiliary power units. When not creating impactful product messaging through webinars, videos, and global training initiatives, he hosts improvisational and stand-up comedy shows throughout San Diego—skills that enhance his ability to engage audiences and communicate with clarity and impact.

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This article first appeared on the Siemens Digital Industries Software blog at https://blogs.sw.siemens.com/electronic-systems-design/2025/05/22/introducing-pads-pro-essentials/