> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.buildwithtrace.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Beta Features

> Preview upcoming Trace features currently in early access. Join the beta program to earn points, provide feedback, and help shape Trace.

<Warning>
  These features are in active development. [Apply for beta access](https://buildwithtrace.com/dashboard/beta) from your dashboard to try them early.
</Warning>

***

## Joining the Beta Program

### How to Apply

1. [Sign in to your Trace dashboard](https://buildwithtrace.com/dashboard)
2. Scroll down to the **Beta Program** section (or go directly to [buildwithtrace.com/dashboard/beta](https://buildwithtrace.com/dashboard/beta))
3. Fill out the application form — select your primary use case and explain what you're building

You'll be notified by email once your application is reviewed. Approved applicants sign a short beta agreement directly in the dashboard (no external signing service required) and receive a personal promo code for 6 months of free Pro access.

### Invited Users

If a Trace team member invites you to the beta, you'll see a "You've Been Invited" banner in your dashboard. Invited users go through the same agreement signing and onboarding flow, but skip the application review queue.

***

## Onboarding

After your beta application is approved and you've signed the agreement, the onboarding wizard walks you through setup:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Choose a Username">
    Pick a unique display name (`@username`). Usernames must be 2-30 characters, letters/numbers/underscores only. The field checks availability in real-time as you type — if a name is taken, you'll see a message immediately.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Welcome Video">
    A short introduction to the beta program and what to expect.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Points Overview">
    An explanation of the points system and how to earn your way up the leaderboard.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Beta Points & Leaderboard

Beta members earn points for participating in the program. Points measure your contribution and unlock recognition on the leaderboard.

### How to Earn Points

| Action                      | Points         | Description                                                |
| --------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| Sign beta agreement         | Points awarded | Complete the in-app agreement signing                      |
| Complete onboarding         | Points awarded | Finish the onboarding wizard and set your username         |
| Submit feedback             | Points awarded | Report a bug, request a feature, or share general feedback |
| First conversation          | Points awarded | Start your first AI chat session                           |
| Daily active use            | Points awarded | Use Trace on consecutive days                              |
| Refer a user                | Points awarded | Invite someone who joins the beta                          |
| Community contribution      | Points awarded | Share designs, write about Trace, or help others           |
| Feature testing             | Points awarded | Test specific features when requested by the team          |
| Bug with reproduction steps | Points awarded | Submit a bug report with clear steps to reproduce          |

### Leaderboard

The leaderboard shows the top 10 beta members by total points. Check your ranking from the beta section of your dashboard.

***

## Feedback

Beta members submit feedback directly from the dashboard at [buildwithtrace.com/dashboard/beta/feedback](https://buildwithtrace.com/dashboard/beta/feedback). Each submission earns points.

### Feedback Types

| Type                 | Points  | When to Use                                             |
| -------------------- | ------- | ------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Bug Report**       | 150 pts | Something isn't working as expected                     |
| **Feature Request**  | 100 pts | An idea for a new capability or improvement             |
| **General Feedback** | 75 pts  | UX observations, workflow suggestions, or anything else |

### Attachments

You can attach up to **5 files** per submission (max 50 MB each). Supported formats:

* **Images** — PNG, JPEG, GIF, WebP (drag-and-drop or click to browse)
* **Videos** — MP4, WebM, QuickTime
* **Audio** — MP3, WAV, OGG
* **Documents** — PDF, plain text

Attachments are uploaded securely to Trace storage. The team reviews them alongside your feedback text.

### Tips for Effective Bug Reports

* Steps to reproduce the issue
* Expected vs actual behavior
* Screenshots or screen recordings showing the problem
* Your Trace version (Help → About)
* Operating system and version

### Faster Support

For real-time help, join the [Trace Discord](https://discord.gg/UNUvQxneCr) and post in **#help-support** — the team and other beta testers actively troubleshoot issues there.

***

## Beta Downloads

Approved beta members get access to beta builds from the dashboard. The download section shows:

* **Platform toggle** — Switch between macOS, Windows, and Linux downloads
* **Version list** — All available beta versions with the latest marked
* **Release notes** — Inline notes for each version showing what changed
* **Older versions** — Expandable list to download previous beta builds if needed

***

## Preview Features

### Datasheet-to-Footprint Generation

Upload a component datasheet and Trace automatically generates the symbol, footprint, and 3D model.

* **Schematic Symbol** — Correct pin names, numbers, and groupings
* **PCB Footprint** — Accurate pad dimensions from mechanical drawings
* **3D Model (STEP)** — For enclosure fit checking and visualization

Supported components: ICs, microcontrollers, connectors, modules, power components, sensors, and discrete components.

### Auto-Silkscreen Positioning

Automatically position reference designators and labels to avoid overlaps with pads, vias, and other silkscreen elements.

* Consistent text orientation (readable from one direction)
* Automatic collision avoidance
* Smart placement near component without overlapping pads
* Batch processing for entire board

### Enhanced 3D Export

Export your complete PCB assembly as a STEP file for integration with mechanical CAD software.

* Import into Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or FreeCAD
* Design enclosures around your PCB
* Check clearances and interference
* Create product renders and documentation

### One-Click Manufacturing

Submit your design directly to PCB fabrication and assembly partners with pre-configured settings. **This feature is now live in stable (Trace 1.3.0+).**

* **PCBWay integration** — Fabrication and assembly (Turnkey, Kitted, Combo) up to 14 layers
* **Pikkolo Assembly integration** — US-based small-batch assembly (Denver, CO) with lead-free and leaded options
* Pre-configured board stackups for supported fabs
* Automatic DFM (Design for Manufacturing) validation against your chosen fab's actual manufacturing constraints before submission
* Instant quotes without leaving Trace
* Order tracking integration
* AI-assisted autofill for manufacturer parameters

See the [One-Click Manufacturing guide](/guides/one-click-manufacturing) for full documentation.

**Supported Partners:** PCBWay (fabrication + assembly, international), Pikkolo Assembly (assembly + US-based fab in beta, Denver CO). More manufacturers coming.

#### DFM Pre-Submission Validation

Before you submit, Trace validates your design against the specific capabilities of your chosen fab house — not just generic DRC rules, but the actual minimum trace width, drill sizes, annular rings, and layer stackup constraints that your manufacturer supports. Issues are flagged with clear explanations and suggested fixes before you spend money on a board that can't be manufactured.

***

## Questions?

Email [hello@buildwithtrace.com](mailto:hello@buildwithtrace.com) or ask in our [Discord community](https://discord.gg/UNUvQxneCr).