The full version is not just for design; it is for manufacturing. The "Sprint-Layout Viewer" is a separate, free tool included with the software. This allows you to open your design and print it directly.
Crucially, Sprint-Layout 6 supports industry-standard export formats. You can generate Gerber and Excellon files. This is vital because it allows hobbyists to send their designs to professional PCB fabrication houses (like JLCPCB or PCBWay) rather than etching them at home with chemicals.
A common frustration in PCB design is creating custom footprints for standard parts. Sprint-Layout 6 comes with an extensive internal library containing components for:
If a component is not in the library, the Macro-Generator allows you to create your own custom components in seconds. You simply define the number of pins, the spacing, and the pad size, and the footprint is generated instantly.
The official English full version is available from Abacom’s website (abacom-online.de). A one-time license costs approximately €79 (around $85 USD as of 2025), with free updates for version 6.x. The license is per-user, not per-machine, and does not require an internet connection after activation. Sprint Layout 6 English Full
Beware of "cracked" versions found on forum or torrent sites. These often contain malware, have unstable Gerber output, or lack proper DRC functionality. Moreover, legitimate users receive technical support (via email, in German or English) and access to official documentation.
Let’s walk through a simple project to demonstrate the workflow in Sprint Layout 6 English Full.
Step 1: Set the Grid and Board Outline Open the software. Go to Settings > Board Outline. Draw a rectangle. In the English version, the status bar shows your current grid in mm or mil (switch via View > Units).
Step 2: Load Components Click the Library icon (bookshelf). Search for "555" (Timer IC). Drag and drop it onto the board. The full English library includes standard footprints like 0805, 1206, TO-220, and DIP packages. The full version is not just for design;
Step 3: Routing Select the Track tool from the left toolbar. Click a pad of the IC, then click a pad of a resistor. The software automatically shows the airwire (the yellow rubber band line) to help you navigate. Hold Ctrl to change layers (e.g., from Top to Bottom) and add a via.
Step 4: Ground Plane Draw a Copper Area around the entire board. Right-click the area and select Properties. Set the "Signal" to GND. The software will automatically pour a ground plane, isolating it from your traces.
Step 5: Generate Gerbers The final step for manufacturing. Go to File > Output > Gerber Export. The Sprint Layout 6 English Full dialog box is straight-forward. Check:
Click "Export," and you have a folder ready to send to JLCPCB, PCBWay, or OSH Park. If a component is not in the library,
One of the best features hidden within the Sprint Layout 6 English Full is the 3D viewer. Once you assign component heights (using the "Component Editor" – perfectly translated in the English version), you can spin your board in 3D space. This allows you to check for mechanical collisions before sending the board to the fab house.
Because it is "Sprint," the software supports direct output for CNC milling machines and laser engravers. The "Isolation Routing" feature (found under File > Export > HPGL) creates perfect toolpaths to mill away copper around your traces.
Sprint Layout is a Windows-based PCB design tool focused on manual routing and direct editing. Unlike auto-routers (e.g., Eagle, KiCad), you place tracks manually, giving you full control. It excels at:
Extras → Design rule check
Check for:
Adjust rules in Options → Settings → DRC.