Split/Mixed vs Copper Pour

[randychase]

This question was asked directly to me yesterday, and someone also asked on the innoveda listserv.

I kinda thought that Split Mixed was really just Copper Pour with a new name to reflect some added functionality like the padstack variables, the automatic creation and automatic splitting.

No?

What else defines these two terms?

[Chris Halleran]

For one thing, I don't think that the "setup Padstacks for Pad Style Thermal" applies to normal poured copper... but it does work for Split Mixed planes. For that reason alone, you might chose the SM Plane approach.

[ratkiller]

Planes are more easily associated with nets on grounds and powers than a copper pour using the layer definetion. This avoids eco probloms later on in the design with messing up what net you assigned a copper pour too.

That's my two cents

[therage!]

Another nice thing about S/M planes and something I'm doing right now is the automatic removal of non functional pads. This can really help if you need more spacing between lets say connector pins and traces. I've had several boards where I had no choice but to remove non functional pads. You can still do that without S/M planes but it can be a chore.

Derek, from the Innoveda Listserver

Happy you guys got this going!