Making a pad into a thermal in Eagle.

Hello,

I’ve been trying to learn EagleCAD for a bit, and I’ve gotten pretty far with the help of the internet and the people in it, but I’ve come upon a problem I can’t find the answer too. I’m designing a 2-layer PCB that has most of the routes on the bottom layer, with a few on the top. On the top is a ground pour which components will connect to via plated through holes. The problem is I need thermals on these pads, right now they are just holes in the ground plane. Does anyone know how to transform a pad on the top layer into a thermal pad? And going a bit further, is there a good size for a thermal pad and the dimensions within? I’m using parts libraries from an online source, if that makes a difference.

If you need more information, please let me know! Thanks for any help/advice you can offer.

Cheers

Open the “Info” (i) tool, and click the edge which contains the polygon pour. Check the box which says “Thermals”. Click ratsnest to re-pour.