Introduction to PCB-CAD-Conversion
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design is a crucial aspect of electronics manufacturing. To ensure that the PCB is manufactured accurately, it is essential to convert the design files into a format that can be easily interpreted by the manufacturing equipment. One of the most widely used formats for PCB manufacturing is Gerber. In this article, we will discuss the guidelines for converting CadSoft EAGLE .brd files to Gerber format.
What is Cadsoft Eagle?
Cadsoft Eagle is a popular PCB Design software that allows users to create schematic diagrams and PCB Layouts. It is widely used by electronics engineers and hobbyists alike due to its user-friendly interface and extensive library of components. Eagle supports various file formats, including .brd, which is the native format for PCB layouts.
What is Gerber Format?
Gerber format is a standard file format used in PCB manufacturing. It is a vector image file format that contains information about the copper layers, Solder Mask, silkscreen, and drill holes of a PCB. Gerber files are created by exporting the PCB layout from the design software and are used by PCB manufacturers to create the physical boards.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Cadsoft Eagle .brd to Gerber
Step 1: Open the .brd file in Cadsoft Eagle
To begin the conversion process, open the .brd file in Cadsoft Eagle. You can do this by launching the software and selecting “File” > “Open” from the menu bar. Navigate to the location where the .brd file is saved and select it.
Step 2: Configure the Gerber Settings
Before exporting the Gerber files, you need to configure the settings to ensure that the files are generated correctly. To do this, follow these steps:
- Select “File” > “CAM Processor” from the menu bar.
- In the CAM Processor window, select “File” > “Open” and choose the “gerb274x.cam” file from the Eagle installation directory.
- Click on the “Layer” tab and ensure that all the required layers are selected. These typically include the top and bottom copper layers, solder mask layers, and silkscreen layers.
- Click on the “Drill” tab and ensure that the “Drill Data” option is selected.
- Click on the “Solder stop mask” tab and ensure that the “Generate solder stop mask data” option is selected.
- Click on the “Silkscreen” tab and ensure that the “Generate silkscreen data” option is selected.
Step 3: Export the Gerber Files
Once the settings are configured, you can export the Gerber files. To do this, follow these steps:
- In the CAM Processor window, click on the “File” menu and select “Job”.
- Choose a location to save the Gerber files and provide a name for the job.
- Click “Save” to start the export process.
- Eagle will generate the Gerber files in the specified location.
Step 4: Verify the Gerber Files
After exporting the Gerber files, it is important to verify that they are correct. You can use a Gerber Viewer software to open and inspect the files. Some popular Gerber viewer software include:
- GerbView
- ViewMate
- CAM350
When verifying the Gerber files, check for the following:
- All the required layers are present
- The dimensions of the PCB are correct
- The drill holes are correctly positioned
- There are no missing or overlapping features
If any issues are found, you may need to go back to the Eagle design and make corrections before re-exporting the Gerber files.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When converting Cadsoft Eagle .brd files to Gerber, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid:
Mistake 1: Not selecting all the required layers
One of the most common mistakes is not selecting all the required layers when configuring the Gerber settings. This can result in missing features on the manufactured PCB. Make sure to carefully review the layer settings and select all the necessary layers.
Mistake 2: Using the wrong Gerber file format
There are different versions of the Gerber file format, and using the wrong one can cause issues during manufacturing. Make sure to use the correct Gerber file format as specified by your PCB manufacturer. The most commonly used format is RS-274X.
Mistake 3: Not including drill data
Another common mistake is not including the drill data in the Gerber files. Without the drill data, the manufacturer will not know where to drill the holes on the PCB. Make sure to select the “Drill Data” option in the Gerber settings.
Mistake 4: Not verifying the Gerber files
Failing to verify the Gerber files before sending them to the manufacturer can result in costly mistakes. Always take the time to thoroughly review the exported Gerber files using a Gerber viewer software to ensure that they are correct.
Best Practices for PCB-CAD-Conversion
To ensure a smooth and error-free PCB-CAD-Conversion process, follow these best practices:
Use a consistent naming convention
When exporting Gerber files, use a consistent naming convention for the files. This will make it easier for the manufacturer to identify the different layers and drill data. A common naming convention is to use the layer name followed by the file extension, for example, “TopCopper.gbr” for the top copper layer.
Include a readme file
Include a readme file with the Gerber files that provides additional information about the PCB design. This can include the PCB dimensions, material specifications, and any special instructions for the manufacturer.
Communicate with the manufacturer
Before sending the Gerber files to the manufacturer, communicate with them to ensure that you have provided all the necessary information and files. Ask for their preferred Gerber file format and any specific requirements they may have.
Keep a backup of the design files
Always keep a backup of the original Eagle design files and the exported Gerber files. This will allow you to easily make changes or corrections if needed.
Conclusion
Converting Cadsoft Eagle .brd files to Gerber format is a critical step in the PCB manufacturing process. By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Gerber files are accurate and complete, minimizing the risk of manufacturing errors and delays.
Remember to carefully configure the Gerber settings, select all the required layers, and thoroughly verify the exported files before sending them to the manufacturer. By taking the time to do this, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use other PCB design software besides Cadsoft Eagle?
Yes, there are many other PCB design software packages available, such as Altium Designer, KiCad, and Autodesk EAGLE. However, the specific steps for exporting Gerber files may differ depending on the software.
2. What should I do if I encounter issues with the exported Gerber files?
If you encounter issues with the exported Gerber files, first try to identify the source of the problem. Check the layer settings, drill data, and other settings to ensure that they are correct. If the issue persists, contact the manufacturer for assistance or consult online forums or resources for troubleshooting tips.
3. Can I use the same Gerber files for different PCB manufacturers?
In general, Gerber files are a standard format that should be compatible with most PCB manufacturers. However, it is always a good idea to check with the specific manufacturer for their requirements and preferences.
4. How do I choose the right PCB manufacturer?
When choosing a PCB manufacturer, consider factors such as their experience, capabilities, pricing, and turnaround time. Look for a manufacturer that has experience with the specific type of PCB you are designing and can meet your quality and delivery requirements.
5. What other files do I need to provide to the PCB manufacturer besides the Gerber files?
In addition to the Gerber files, you may need to provide other files such as the drill data, solder mask data, and silkscreen data. Some manufacturers may also require a bill of materials (BOM) or assembly drawings. Check with the manufacturer for their specific requirements.
Leave a Reply