Create Component Step Models in Altium

This tip shows you how to create a component step model in Altium.

One of the models shown below was created from extruded shapes and the other is a component step model created in Altium from the extruded shapes.




The tricks required to create Component Step Models are:

1. Create a PcbDoc and place extruded shapes.
2. Using the Layer Stack Manager Create a Zero Height PCB with no Solder mask.
3. Create Board Outline which is smaller than perimeter of the extruded bodies.
4. Save the PcbDoc as a Step Model.

Step 1. Place extruded shapes in a PcbDoc.  

If your footprint already has extrude shapes, copy and paste those shapes to the PcbDoc.



As shown above there are six extruded shapes and two arc circles.

For convenience the Origin should be set to align with an Origin in the Target Footprint.

Step 2.  Create the Zero Height PCB with no Soldermask.

Step 3. Create a tiny Board Outline.

 

Define the Board Outline using a small circle placed at the Origin.

Step 4.  Save the PcbDoc as a Step Model.



The step model is now ready be placed in a PCB or a Footprint Library.



2D view of the Extruded Shape model (left) and the Step Model (right).



3D view of the Extruded Shape model (left) and the Step Model (right).



Below is a view of the Step Model embedded in a PcbLib Footprint.