I'm wondering is there any method to locate the components individually in 3D PCB board PDF file generated by Altium. I know there is an option called cross probe to check the components between schematics and PCB layout but that will be only limited to Altium users in which can be done by having project files.Considering who doesn't have Altium designer to access project files how can one view each component on the PCB layout within PDF or any other format?
Electronic – How to locate components individually in PCB layout in Altium Designer
altiumpcb-design
Best Answer
The quickest way to find the specific components/nets on PDF format PCB layout is to use Altium's Smart PDF option from the File menu.
Once the Smart PDF option is selected then a sequence of prompt windows will appear in which one of them will be as shown in the fig below.
From the above pic there is an Additional Information options box in that a setting called Global Bookmarks for Components and Nets, which needs to be checked. And just above that there is Zoom options box in which you can adjust the zoom level setting ( Far and Close ) using the slider.
Thats how simple it is. And If you want to go bit advance like having it in 3D version of PDF, then you can check the decent tutorial from youtube video link in comments shared by @zdun8.
NB: This method has been tested and works perfectly in all recent versions of Adobe Reader. But can't confirm in any other PDF reader apps. So if any one has tested on other PDF readers you can add to the comments which will be helpful for others.
Have a good day :)