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hand off for PCB fabrication. This article provides a step-by-step guide on
properly exporting Gerber files from a KiCad PCB design including setup,
Gerber files are the standard image format used by PCB manufacturers to
separate file
tools
Correctly configured Gerber files are required for the PCB fabrication
Prior to exporting Gerber files, it’s important the KiCad PCB design is fully
the files. It’s vital to freeze the design prior to Gerber export.
1. Open the PCB file in KiCad and select Design Rules from the toolbar.
2. In the Design Rules window, browse each rule category like Routing,
3. Verify all settings like track width, clearance, annular ring size, and
5. Run Tools → Design Rule Check and resolve any errors before
proceeding.
Correct design rules prevent errors like trace sizes or spacings that violate
fabrication limits.
The Excellon drill files defining hole sizes and locations are exported first:
Files.
2. Choose a directory to save the drill files and enter a Drill File Prefix
like ‘boardname-RoundHoles’.
4. Set ‘Map Files’ to ‘PTH and NPTH into single file’ for combining
shops.
maps layers.
3. Choose a directory to store output files and enter a File Name Prefix
like ‘boardname’.
This .gbrjob file will configure and contain all the PCB layer Gerber files.
1. Double click the .gbrjob in File Explorer to open the Cam Processor
job.
2. In the Layers/Files map table, click each ‘File’ cell and set the
3. Verify each PCB layer maps to the expected Gerber file based on
standard conventions.
4. The job log will display each layer file as its generated.
The needed Gerber fabrication and assembly files are now created!
Visually inspect each layer file in a Gerber viewer. Check for any
Load files into CAM software like FlatCAM for additional checks
opened cutouts
Fixing issues in the source PCB design is needed if any discrepancies are
observed.
Here are the typical Gerber files generated from KiCad and their purpose:
File Purpose
.GTL Top layer copper
.GBL Bottom layer copper
.GTS Top soldermask layer
.GBS Bottom soldermask layer
.GTO Silkscreen print legend layer
.GTP Solder paste layer
.GND Board profile contour
.DRD NC drill file
Here are some frequently asked questions about generating Gerber files
from KiCad:
KiCad follows the Protel filename convention like .GTL for Top Layer where
the first letter indicates layer and second letter indicates function.
Use a free Gerber viewer like the one built into FlatCAM to visually inspect
The origin set under File → Page Settings when creating the KiCad project
will establish the coordinate system zero reference for output files.
Not all fabrication layer types like non-plated holes or finishing notes have
default mappings. Custom Gerber jobs can add mappings for any
additional files.
Conclusion
table along with output settings generates the correct fabrication files
expected from CAD tools. Visually inspecting layers and running design
Related Posts:
https://www.raypcb.com/the-method-to-export-kicad-pcb-design-to-gerber-files/