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kipcamp
USA
1 Posts |
 Posted - 18 Oct 2010 : 18:41:44
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I'm new to using commercial board layout software and am having trouble with outputting proper Gerber files. I've used free software (such as that from ExpressPCB) many times and have had no problems with boards, but there are enough options with the Gerber output possibilities in Easy PC that I'm a little lost. I've submitted some files to a board house for review and they've apprised me of several problems which, due to inexperience, are probably due to my own making.
Before I go through a blow-by-blow listing questions and issues, is there some form of general Gerber output tutorial or set of guidelines available for me to follow?
Thanks
Kip Campbell |
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shadders
United Kingdom
224 Posts |
Posted - 20 Oct 2010 : 16:39:46
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Hi Kip,
I have recently output my very first design in Gerber formt to send to the manufacturer.
The options are a little daunting at first, but i did the following :
On the Printing and Plotting menu selection -> Output Tab -> Gerber Selected -> Device Setup :
Selected RS274X button in the Gerber Options area.
Changed the format of the output to Integer 3, Decimal 5.
All other defaults left the same.
On the Layers Tab:
Selected the [Board Outline] on all plots. This is a toggle action by clicking the "N" - this is set to "N" by default. You have to go through each plot by selecting at the left hand side.
On the Settings Tab
Keep the defaults or ensure that plot unplated board outline is selected
On the Options buttong on the main dialogue - i left the defaults.
The saving of a print job etc., can be a bit difficult.
Selecting the Options Buttong -> NC Drill button :
Set the Integer to 3 and Decimal to 5.
I used the remaining defaults. I am using v14.0.1
Once plotted, i used Pentalogic Viewmate free download toview the files. This then allows you to view the files on screen and ensure that the pplots are correct. can help - but a detailed design may not be helpful if too intricate.
The Viewmate package also allows you to see any errors in the Gerber - i had two - intersecting polygons - checked the image and the location seemed ok for plotting.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Richard.
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Gerber Defaults Guidelines