Protel and Orcad are not the same product. Protel is a company now called Altium, and the latest version of the PCB software is called Altium Designer. Orcad is distributed by Cadence Corporation, and the old Orcad PCB program has been discontinued by Cadence - Allegro is the replacement.
The two differenct PCB Editors are nothing alike. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Protel (Altium) is not available in a Linux version - Allegro does have a Linux version.
Hi,
both of them are good,but protel(the newest version is called "Altium designer")
is the most professional CAD for PCB design,because of complete Database and libraries that u cant find in other same softwares.protel has more complete footprint and components separated by provider company and part No in detail,and it has many convenient and professional tools for PCB design.no doubt,PROTEL is more professional and useful.
BR