The current version of the AutoBOM is still in the older “Excel 97-2003” template format as the latest *.xltm macro enabled format that is required for the embedded VBM macro is not recognized by Altium.

For correct functionality of the latest AutoBOM the following is expected:

• BOM settings will need to be set correctly in Altium, refer to the INSTRUCTION tab of the AutoBOM for details of Altium settings.
• All schematics components must be updated from the libraries.
• all projects have the minimum of one base variant.
• When setting up the reports with the AutoBOM a variant will need to be chosen.

Once the AutoBOM has been used on a project the macros will need to be enabled and the “SORT” button pressed for auto sorting of the contents. Below is the output from a project showing the header details. Many of the details in the header are from the project parameters, some of the details are obtained from the project such as the variant that has been selected for the BOM.

Underneath the header is the S-PC section. Once auto sorted, all components in this section should be surface mount and the PCB. Any errors should be reported.

Next is the A-PC section below, the only items that should be here are components that are essential for powering and programming the assembly. These are normally the press-fit rear connectors and the coding key (if applicable). If there are any through-holes devices such as a link or a fuse that are required for the assembly to power up correctly then these will need to be manually moved from the Top section of the BOM after auto-sorting. For mother daughter modules, the mother A-PC, and the daughter A-PC should have their respective PCB-PCB interface connector fitted which means that if these are through hole connectors that they will need to be manually moved from the TOP section to the A-PC section of the BOM

Next is the TOP section which contains items that are required to make a complete module such as relays and front panel connector. Currently we do not have all parts in the library for inclusion in this section, items such as the front panel will be available at a later date as a template.

The next section is COST which is the total price of the selected build (note that the PCB price should be manually entered in row 11 of the spreadsheet).

The final section is the OMITTED section which is in a format suitable for entry to X3 which lists all the omitted SM components and then all the other omitted components.

Once you have completed your BOM save it (the format for the latest version of Excel without the macros can be used as their task is now complete and no BOM information will be lost).