Gerber Files: A Professional Guide
Overview
Gerber files are a standard file format used in the printed circuit board (PCB) design and manufacturing process. They contain all of the information needed to fabricate a PCB, including the location and shape of all of the copper traces, vias, pads, and other features.
Gerber files are used by PCB manufacturers to create photomasks, which are used to pattern the copper onto the PCB. They are also used to create other PCB fabrication elements, such as solder masks and silkscreens.
What are Gerber files?
Gerber files are ASCII text files that contain a set of commands that describe the PCB. Each command specifies a different geometric shape, such as a line, rectangle, or circle. The commands also specify the size, location, and other attributes of the shape.
Gerber files are typically generated by PCB design software. The design software will export a separate Gerber file for each layer of the PCB. For example, there will be a Gerber file for the top copper layer, a Gerber file for the bottom copper layer, and Gerber files for any other layers, such as the solder mask and silkscreen.
How to use Gerber files
Once you have generated your Gerber files, you need to send them to your PCB manufacturer. The manufacturer will use the Gerber files to create photomasks and other fabrication elements.
When sending your Gerber files to the manufacturer, you need to make sure that the files are complete and accurate. It is also important to provide the manufacturer with a bill of materials (BOM) so that they know which components to place on the PCB.
Here are some tips for using Gerber files:
- Make sure that the Gerber files are complete and accurate.
- Provide the manufacturer with a BOM.
- Compress the Gerber files into a ZIP file before sending them to the manufacturer.
- Use a Gerber viewer to check your Gerber files for errors.
Gerber file types
There are two main types of Gerber files:
- RS-274D: This is the older Gerber file format. It is still supported by most PCB manufacturers, but it is being replaced by the newer RS-274X format.
- RS-274X: This is the newer Gerber file format. It is more powerful and flexible than the RS-274D format. It also supports additional features, such as layers and apertures.
Gerber viewer
A Gerber viewer is a software application that can be used to view and analyze Gerber files. Gerber viewers are typically used by PCB designers and PCB manufacturers to check Gerber files for errors and to ensure that they are correct.
There are many different Gerber viewers available, both free and commercial. Some popular Gerber viewers include:
- GerberView
- GerberPro
- Gerber Master
Professional considerations
When using Gerber files in a professional setting, there are a few additional things to keep in mind:
- Use the correct settings. The settings used to generate Gerber files can vary depending on the PCB manufacturer and the type of PCB being fabricated. It is important to use the correct settings to ensure that the Gerber files are compatible with the manufacturer’s equipment and processes.
- Check the Gerber files for errors. It is important to check the Gerber files for errors before sending them to the manufacturer. This can be done using a Gerber viewer.
- Provide a BOM to the manufacturer. The BOM will tell the manufacturer which components to place on the PCB and where to place them.
- Communicate with the manufacturer. If you have any questions or concerns about the Gerber files or the PCB fabrication process, be sure to communicate with the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Gerber files are an essential part of the PCB design and manufacturing process. By understanding what Gerber files are and how to use them, you can ensure that your PCBs are fabricated correctly.
Common Gerber file errors
Here are some common Gerber file errors to avoid:
- Missing layers
- Incorrect shapes or sizes
- Overlapping shapes
- Unconnected traces
- Missing vias
By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your Gerber files are complete, accurate, and error-free.
