Library Panel - Default Footprints

When you place a part from the Libraries Panel if the part has multiple footprints listed in the database, then the default footprint in the design will be determined by the footprint assigned to Footprint Ref.

For example if the backend database has three footprint choices:

Footprint Ref        is   CAPC1005X55L (least)

Footprint Ref 2     is   CAPC1005X55N (nominal)

Footprint Ref 3     is   0402_RND (custom)

In the Library Panel these footprints are listed in alphabetical order with check mark applied to the default footprint.

Here is the database view using Parts Frontend

Note as shown in the Libraries Panel CAPC1005X55L is the default, because it is assigned to Footprint Ref.

Tips:

1) Prior to placing a part you can select the desired footprint the Libraries Panel..

2) After placement you add more footprints to a component if desired.

3) After placement use Tools > Footprint Manager to organize and select preferred footprints in the schematic, then update the PCB with the changes.

 4) If you only have access to the *.PCBdoc then use Find Similiar > PCB Inspector to select and change the footprints.