How to create/add or modify a footprint?

[741]

I'm new to Altium... In Altium 21.8, I am trying to create a new footprint. This would then be added to an existing database library (.DbLib).

How do I do this?

I tried to open the .DbLib file, but nothing happened.

The documentation tells me to invoke the "PCB Library panel", but this panel is not in the list of panels I see available (either from a schematic or a PCB context) - see image.


I did see that Schematic Editor has a "Footprint Manager" under "Tools", this shows existing symbols in my schematic. It seems to confirm that the footprints are stored in a the .DbLib file.

I would have thought this would at least solve the "how to modify" question. However, after selecting a part in the left panel, and choosing 'Edit', then 'OK', nothing happens. I think this might be a dialog just related to updating the 3D model though?

[free_electron]

a DBLib does not store symbols or footprints. it stores components : only the text data for the parameters and the link to the file containing the footprints and symbols.

file -> new -> schematic library
file -> new -> pcb library

then form the dblib you point to those files and to the actual part within the files.

[741]

OK Thanks.

Will using  "file -> new -> pcb library" create a whole new library?

I only want to make a footprint, and I had been assuming that the footprints I've already used in my design were stored somewhere together in one (or just a few) files.

I'd like to append the new footprint to wherever the other footprints are kept.

[free_electron]

yes, those footprints are stored somewhere in a PCBlib file. you need to find out what file(s) you are using. but. it is better to make your OWN pcblib. you do not want an installation update to overwrite the factory libraries and wipe out what you have built

[741]

I was wondering - how would I append to an existing .PcbLib when adding other parts at a later date?

...
<Edit>

OK, I think it's

• Open the .PcbLib file
• Once this is open, the panel "PCB Library" then appears in the list of panels

I was missing the 1st step.