Setting Component Height for IDF export
Components in DSPCB contain precise dimensions in 2D domain and the third dimension is not present. All components will be assumed to be of zero height during the export. It is therefore up to an engineer to identify the components that require precise height set. A good example is a relay as it is likely to be taller than the rest of component that could go on that board and could collide with enclosure.This is when the component datasheet comes handy. If you don't have it opened, the easiest way to get to it is to right click the component, select 'values', and copy the RS Part Number. This can be then searched on RS-online to guarantee a correct datasheet for the part. Once datasheet open, find the dimensions. For our relay is is 8.4mm. Endure your PCB design units are set to mm if you choose to use this unit type for 3D export.
To set the height for a component edit values in library by right-clicking on the component:
Note: When assigning Component Values to define the height of components, it is advised they are defined in the Component Library and not local Value attributes on component instances. Each device would then have a height assigned to it. This avoids having different values on different instances of a component, which the export cannot handle. This tutorial shows the correct way that will save you from making mistakes.
A component edit view will show, fro mthe menu select Edit>Values>Add:
Make sure to save changes to the component in the library. The last step is to update the component. Right click > Update Component. The velues can be checked at any time by right click>Values:
Note: this only need to be done for a handful of distinctive component on a board like connectors, etc - vast majority of components are low profile and do not need any manual intervention.