Welcome to electro-tech, Elecman2000!
At the moment, I am using ExpressSCH, and though it may not be the best software out there, it works and IT'S FREE! Here's a link:
It is a good place to start, anyway.
Have fun, and keep posting!
Der Strom
This is very true. I have had trouble with this as well, but if it is mainly for your own use then it is a good place to start. I have the ExpressPCB software, but I am still searching for an alternative. I look forward to reading other replies to this thread
Der Strom
But....if you just want to draw schematics, I find ExpressPCB almost intuitive to use, has a reasonable component library, and it's easy to modify or create any components not in the library.
If money is the issue, and you still need the power of bigger packages, then dump Windows and go with geda on a *nix box (caution, learning curve is very steep - like a cliff):
All my schematics are made with Microsoft Paint program.
Straight lines are made by holding the SHIFT key down. Most parts are copied and pasted from other schematics of datasheets.
Here is one schematic made with Microsoft Paint program:
That is one sweet looking schematic. But...for a beginner to start from scratch would be a real pain. Do you have a library of components you'd care to share with them and us?
Free is a good price for a student on a tight budget. I have a full blown Orcad package that cost a packet when I got it about 11 years ago; it paid for itself over time, but is a pain to use at times and various boardhouses are a trial and error issue with rather long turn times; worst case was a 4000 panel order with 2000 panels over etched (double line run) with a 3+ week wait so my client was very unhappy.
I've been using ExpressPCB for about the last 5 years for most projects. The reason is simple. It's much easier to use, ExpressPCB has great turn time for their product, minimal and competative cost and provides top quality boards. Quality and turn time are my highest priorities. Those priorities may vary from person to person. But free is still free. It won't cost you anything to try it out, and the learning curve is not very steep at all.