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- January 27, 2023
- PCB knowledge
- (0)
- 06 mins
PCB Gerber file – what is it & how do you create one
Gerber files are the most commonly used format for the design of a PCB or printed circuit board.
The Gerber file is an image of what the PCB will look like once completed, including all the components and tracks that need to be connected. It is a critical step in the PCB design process as it helps the manufacturer ensure everything is in line before manufacturing.
The following blog post will introduce PCB Gerber file and how it is created and used in circuit board manufacturing processes. So buckle up – let’s start exploring the world of awesome circuit boards through Gerber files!
What is a PCB Gerber file?
Gerber files consist of instructions for a manufacturer on making your circuit board. It includes specifications like the board’s size, number of layers, drill holes, plane layers, etc. It’s a universal file format used in PCB fabrication that ensures the accuracy of your board design. For fabrication and assembly, you’ll need to generate Gerber files once you’ve designed your PCB.
What is the purpose of a Gerber file?
Gerber files are the industry standard for communicating printed circuit board (PCB) design information. They provide a means for PCB designers to represent their designs in a language the computer can read. They are used to create PCBs from a single file containing all the necessary information.
Most CAD and PCB manufacturers worldwide support Gerber files, so you can transfer your designs without losing them.
In addition, these files are used to check for errors in the design before production. Making circuit boards this way improves efficiency and reduces costs.
Gerber files – What do they contain?
The Gerber file format is a vector format that contains all the information related to your design, such as the outline, copper traces, layers, pad stacks, drill holes, and other features.
The process of generating the files may vary depending on the CAD software you’re using, but most will have an export to Gerber feature that will take care of it for you.
As soon as the files are generated, they will have an extension of .gb or .gbr that indicates they are Gerber files.
There are four elements in a PCB Gerber file, which are stored in an ASCII text file:
●Configuration parameters
●Aperture definitions
●Display XY coordinates of command locations
●Create a command code and flash it
PCB Gerber file example
Gerber files contain multiple layers of information. Copper traces, pads, drills, and so forth are all included in each layer of the PCB design.
An example of a Gerber viewer showing all layers stacked on top of each other is shown below.
You can use the Gerber viewer to recreate the PCB layout view you would see in your ECAD program.
Manufacturers will inspect your board using this view before they send you a quote.
Specialized Gerber file CAM programs can perform DFM checks, mainly clearances, after which updates are possible before fabrication.
How do I create a Gerber file for PCB?
As a first step, make sure your manufacturer uses the same software you did. You should make PCB Gerber files if your manufacturer uses different software.
Using OrCAD to Create Gerber files
Step 1. OrCAD is used to design the PCB in the first step. After checking that no points are shorted, move on to the next step.
Step 2. Choose “Output” from the tab at the top of the software.
Step 3. Select “Generate Gerber” after clicking “Output.”
Step 4. To simplify the process, choose ” Output to a single ZIP file,” then click ” Reflection” > ” Mirror.” You can generate a Gerber file by clicking on ” OK .”
Step 5. In the end, a ZIP file containing the Gerber file is generated. Your saved location contains it.
Using Altium to Generate Gerber Files
Step 1. You will need Altium Designer to open the schematic. You need to select the “File” tab on the top of the tab bar, then select ” Fabrication Outputs” > ” Gerber Files.”
Step 2. It will take you to the Gerber Setup window. On the top tab, select “Layers.”
Step 3. Then select “Plot Layers” > “All on” and confirm the Gerber file generation by clicking “OK.”
The steps below will guide you through creating the drill file:
Step 1. Start Altium and open the schematic. You can choose ” File. “
Step 2. Choose “NC Drill Files” from the drop-down box under “Fabrication Outputs.”
Step 3. During NC Drill Setup, a window appears. You can generate the drill file by clicking “OK.”.
PCB Gerber file format
RS274-D
Several newer versions of the Gerber file format were developed by Gerber Scientific, including the Extended and Advanced Gerber (RS-274X).
This format is automated, requires less manual input, and is more versatile for modern CNC applications.
RS274X
RS274X offers a variety of features to streamline the design process and help PCB Gerber files designers produce high-quality results with minimal effort.
It supports film control, special polygon fill commands, a multiple-layer structure for single layers, polarity controls, and many other features.
Gerber X2
X2 is the ultimate Gerber format for advanced CAM software. You can add attributes to Gerber features, so your fabricator and CAM operator has more information.
For example, you can set the function of the file to be a top mask or top copper or even define the part as a single PCB, an array, or a coupon.
You can also assign functions to pads like SMD, Via pad, or fiducial.
How do I read Gerber files for PCB?
PCB Gerber files are the industry standard for PCB manufacturing, and understanding them is essential to getting your board made.
Fortunately, reading a Gerber file isn’t too difficult! All you need is a program that can parse the Gerber format, such as Eagle PCB or GerbV.
After opening the file, you can view your board layout and identify potential issues.
Additionally, some software programs can convert Gerber files into other formats, such as PDF or DXF, making sharing your design easier.
How to open PCB Gerber file?
Opening a PCB Gerber file is quite straightforward, but you might need to download some additional software to make it work.
You should be able to tell what program was used by checking the file extension, which is usually either .gbr or .grb.
Once you know the program type, you can download the appropriate software. Next, open up your Gerber file in the new software.
Depending on what program you’re using, you may need to configure some settings before being able to view the file.
Now your PCB should be displayed in detail. If you want to make any changes, you can do so now.
Finally, save the file, and you’re all set!
Gerber files consist of instructions for a manufacturer on making your circuit board. It includes specifications like the board’s size, number of layers, drill holes, plane layers, etc. It’s a universal file format used in PCB fabrication that ensures the accuracy of your board design.
Gerber files are the industry standard for communicating printed circuit board (PCB) design information. They provide a means for PCB designers to represent their designs in a language the computer can read. They are used to create PCBs from a single file containing all the necessary information.
- RS274-D
- RS274X
- Gerber X2
Conclusion
There is no doubt that Gerber files are essential for the successful production of PCB designs!
PCB Gerber file contains all the information you’ll need to create a printed circuit board, including layer information and other design details.
So, take the time to make sure your Gerber files are up to par, and you’ll be on your way to success!
