[weblacky]

Yo,
I've wanted to figure out PCB layout for awhile, I'd tried easyEDA, DigiKey's PCB layout site, and one other (name escapes me) and I couldn't get them to do simple things.  The online ones seem to be bent on you telling them the part you want to use, then they will layout.  But their parts lists are tiny and don't allow you to enter much. I even have Visio, solidworks, and Autodesk CAD experience, and yet I couldn't get anything to work on what I've tried.

Suggestions would be welcome.  I need to do a lot of header layouts and adapter boards so I need to be able to align and layout 40, 50, 60+ header pin layouts (2.54mm IDC) as well as narrow SMD connectors.  Every guide I've found approaches the PDB layout from already existing parts.    I have data sheets for the footprints I want, but cannot seem to find a free PCB designer that allows me to just either dictate the component footprint or has the ability to know what connectors are (as components) to allow placement and connection.


I've not tried Eagle, I know that's a thing, I may try there next.