Glossary of terms

Component Library Manager

Centralized system for creating and managing component libraries with models, parameters, and supply chain data.

Centralized component repository for seamless access to verified elements.

Component Library Manager is a tool for centralized management of electronic components and their models.

Purpose:
  • Creating, editing, and organizing component libraries
  • Managing schematic symbols, footprints, and 3D models
  • Ensuring component data integrity across projects
  • Capabilities and Features:
  • Creating and editing schematic symbols and component footprints
  • Managing component parameters (values, tolerances, manufacturers)
  • Integration with online component databases (Octopart, IHS Markit, and others)
  • Library version control to ensure team consistency
  • Support for various library types: file-based, integrated, and Workspace-based libraries
  • Ability to import data from various formats and sources
  • Connections with Other Sections:
  • Provides components for Schematic Editor and PCB Editor
  • Integrates with Altium 365 for team library sharing
  • Connected with Supply Chain Integration for component availability information
  • Interacts with ActiveBOM for generating bill of materials


  • Technical Glossary: Component Library Manager Terms

    Term Definition
    3D Model Three-dimensional representation of a component used for visualizing the PCB assembly and checking mechanical clearances
    Alternate Part Secondary component that can substitute the primary one with equivalent electrical characteristics but potentially different parameters
    Attribute Additional information associated with a component such as value, tolerance, voltage rating, or manufacturer
    BOM Entry Record in the Bill of Materials that describes a component with all its manufacturing and procurement information
    Component Data All information related to a component, including electrical parameters, mechanical dimensions, pricing, and availability
    Component Template Predefined structure for creating new components, ensuring consistency across library items
    Datasheet Technical document from a manufacturer that specifies component characteristics, ratings, and usage guidelines
    Device Combination of symbol and footprint that represents a specific component for use in design projects
    Family Group of related components that share similar characteristics or functions but may have different values or ratings
    Footprint Pattern of pads, silkscreen markings, and other elements that define a component's physical connection to the PCB
    IPC Compliant Components designed according to IPC standards (like IPC-7351) for manufacturing and reliability best practices
    Library Organized collection of component definitions including symbols, footprints, and models used in electronic design
    Library Migration Process of transferring component libraries between different software versions or platforms while maintaining data integrity
    Manufacturer Part Specific component identifier assigned by the original manufacturer, often linking to supply chain information
    Model Digital representation of a component's behavior or appearance, including electrical, thermal, or mechanical aspects
    Package Physical form of an electronic component that encapsulates the semiconductor or circuit element
    Padstack Definition of how a single pad or via is constructed across multiple PCB layers
    Parameters Electrical and physical specifications of a component, such as resistance value, capacitance, current rating, or dimensions
    Part Number Unique identifier for a specific component, used for procurement and inventory management
    Pin Connection point on a component symbol that represents an electrical input, output, or power connection
    Pinout Diagram or documentation showing the function of each pin on a component
    Reference Designator Unique identifier assigned to each component on a schematic and PCB (e.g., R1, C4, U2)
    Revision Control System for tracking and managing changes to library components, ensuring design consistency
    Schematic Symbol Graphical representation of an electronic component used in circuit diagrams, showing electrical connections and function
    Simulation Model Mathematical representation of a component's electrical behavior used in circuit simulation software like SPICE
    STEP Model Standard 3D model format (ISO 10303) used for mechanical CAD integration and visualization
    Supply Chain Data Information about component availability, pricing, lead times, and approved suppliers
    Symbol Standardized graphical representation of a component used in schematic diagrams
    Unified Component Integrated component definition that combines symbol, footprint, and associated data in a single library entity
    Vault Centralized, secure storage system for managing and controlling access to component libraries in team environments



    Component Library Manager in Design Editors