About editing nets and traces

The following tools are related in function, and often used together for efficient trace editing. These tools are helpful when routing traces around obstacles or into preferred paths.

Miter is used to change the path of a net or trace without adding more segments. A single click on a segment can cause it to jump to a new route that may not be optimal. The click-drag method of using Miter is recommended for providing dynamic control of the route and more predictable results.

Split is used to add one or more segments to a net or trace. Some experimentation is required to develop skill in splitting paths, especially when using curves.

Slice is used to break and ripup a path segment at a selected point, or to the left or right of a point. The slice can cut across multiple paths that follow a similar route. Traces revert to airwires for manual rerouting. The left or right segment ripup is based on the direction of the slice line. Imagine standing at the start point, facing the end point. In this orientation, the right segment is on your right.

Ripup and Route provides one-click automated cleanup of traces that have been left in a mess after moving components on a 2D or 3D board. It usually does all or most of the cleanup, but additional manual work may be required.