Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
(OP)
I have someone in another division on the other side of the planet working on a PCB design. He sent me a bunch of Gerber files. I don't have access to anything that reads Gerber files.
Is there anyone out there familiar with PCB Gerber design who can tell what export formats are available? What would be the best thing to ask for?
Thanks in advance...
Is there anyone out there familiar with PCB Gerber design who can tell what export formats are available? What would be the best thing to ask for?
Thanks in advance...
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RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
The output file is a text file of Geometric shapes, locations and sizes. They basically just geometric coordinates.
I think, not sure, they can provide DXF or Iges, those are probably your best bet, but I am not expert on it.
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
For Gerber readers (& possible different export formats) check
http://www.cimmetry.com/Gerber_Viewer.html
http://www.softwarecompanions.com/gbupdate500.html
Making the best use of this Forum. FAQ559-716
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Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of. FAQ559-520
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
http://www.artwork.com
John
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
See if your PCB team can output IDF files. (They have the extension .EMN and .EMP) SW2005 gives you the ability to import such files, or if you're not on 2005, you can use the CircuitWorks add-on. I am not aware of a way to import Gerber files directly into SW.
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
Solidworks will import IDF files, however when they come in the mounting holes come in as square features extruded on the surface. We had to create a macro that will actually turn these into holes. But IDF seems to work the quickest for us to get data from the PCB guys to the Mechanical guys.
Best Regards,
Jon
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Solidworks 2005 SP2.0
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
Depending what program the PCB was designed in. We use orcad and use AutoCAD as a interface. I generate stayout zones then send a DWG/DXF to ORCAD. A while back SWx Corp had a solid solutions partner that produced circuit-works that anabled SWx to read in Gerber data and it created the board assembly. This data could be shared bidirectional. A real slick tool but back then we didn't have the $$$$$ to purchase.
Best Regards,
Heckler
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RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
John
RE: Gerber PCB physical geometry to SW?
I'm using AutoCAD as interface/first step to clean up the files from unnecessary data and then open it in SW, generating model with the features I need for the design.
I found this is the most practical way so far...
Regards,
G