How to Change PCB Board Size in Ultiboard：A Comprehensive Guide

Changing the board size in Ultiboard is a task every PCB designer will face sooner or later. From simple resizing to importing custom outlines, the process involves several tools and settings that can be tricky for beginners. In this FAQ, I’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about adjusting PCB dimensions in Ultiboard, with clear answers to help you work faster and avoid common mistakes.

Part 1. How do I change PCB board size in Ultiboard?

To change the PCB board size in Ultiboard, open your project and select the board outline. Use the selection tool to drag the edges or corners to resize the board. You can also enter precise dimensions by editing the outline properties in the toolbar or property panel.

Part 2. How to set custom board dimensions in Ultiboard?

Go to the Design Toolbox, select the board outline, and right-click to edit properties. Enter the exact width and height values in the outline settings. This allows you to set custom board dimensions instead of manually dragging the outline.

Part 3. How to resize the PCB outline in Ultiboard?

Select the board outline layer, then click and drag the borders to make the PCB larger or smaller. For accuracy, open the outline’s properties and input the new measurements directly. Ultiboard lets you resize both rectangular and irregular shapes.

Part 4. Can I change the board size after starting a design in Ultiboard?

Yes, you can change the size anytime. Select and adjust the board outline. Keep in mind that resizing may affect component placement and routing, so you might need to reposition parts and reroute traces to fit the new board size.

Part 5. How to adjust the board shape and size in Ultiboard?

Switch to the Board Outline tool in the toolbar. You can add or remove points to change the shape, or drag corners to resize. Ultiboard supports rectangular, circular, and custom polygon outlines, giving flexibility for different product designs.

Part 6. How to create a new board outline with custom size in Ultiboard?

Start by deleting the default outline if needed. Then, go to Place → Board Outline, and draw a new shape. You can specify exact coordinates, width, and height, or manually click to create the desired outline. This ensures a custom board size.

Part 7. How to edit board dimensions in Ultiboard step by step?

1. Open your design.
2. Switch to the board outline layer.
3. Select the outline with the pointer tool.
4. Right-click → Properties.
5. Enter new width and height values.
6. Click Apply.
   Your PCB outline updates instantly with the new dimensions.

Part 8. How to increase or decrease PCB size in Ultiboard?

Select the board outline and drag outward to increase or inward to decrease size. For exact changes, edit the outline’s numeric dimensions in its properties. Remember to check spacing and reposition components if the new size impacts your layout.

Part 9. How do I set exact width and height for a PCB in Ultiboard?

Right-click on the board outline, go to Properties, and enter the desired width and height values. Ultiboard accepts precise numbers, so you can set dimensions down to fractions of a millimeter. This is best for designs requiring tight tolerances.

Part 10. How to use the board outline tool in Ultiboard to resize?

In Ultiboard, the Board Outline Tool lets you draw, edit, and resize outlines. Select it, click the outline borders, and drag to reshape. You can also add vertices to create custom shapes. For exact resizing, use the outline’s property box.

Part 11. FAQs about Change PCB Board Size in Ultiboard

Can I import a custom board outline into Ultiboard?

Yes. You can import DXF or Gerber files as board outlines. Use File → Import, choose the outline file, and place it on the board outline layer.

How to draw and resize a rectangular board in Ultiboard?

Use the Board Outline tool, draw a rectangle, then drag corners to resize. For exact size, edit the outline properties and enter width and height.

How to change PCB shape from square to round in Ultiboard?

Delete or edit the existing outline, then use the Circle tool to draw a round outline. Adjust its diameter in properties for precise size.

How to lock or unlock board outline size in Ultiboard?

Right-click the board outline and check Lock Position to prevent resizing. Uncheck it to unlock and allow changes.

How to check current PCB board dimensions in Ultiboard?

Select the outline, right-click → Properties. The width and height are shown there. You can also measure with the ruler tool.

How to reset PCB board size to default in Ultiboard?

Delete the custom outline and redraw a new default shape with the Board Outline tool. Ultiboard doesn’t have a one-click reset button.

How to define PCB outline layers when resizing in Ultiboard?

Go to the Design Toolbox, select Board Outline layer, then resize. Ensure you’re editing the correct layer before adjusting size.

How to adjust component placement after resizing board size in Ultiboard?

Select components with the pointer tool and drag them inside the new outline. Use grid snapping for alignment.

How to fix design rule errors after changing board size in Ultiboard?

Run the Design Rule Check (DRC). Move traces, vias, or components that violate spacing. Adjust routing until errors clear.

How to export resized PCB board outline from Ultiboard?

Go to File → Export, choose DXF or Gerber, and select the Board Outline layer. This lets you share or reuse the resized outline.

A professional with over a decade of experience in the PCB depaneling industry.