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The Beginners Guide to Gerber File Extensions

The utilization of Gerber files forms a significant section of the circuit

board creation, as well as diagnostics. In this article, you will learn much

regarding the Gerber file extensions. These include the software required

as well as those extensions that you will need to recognize. Before we go

into details regarding Gerber file extensions, we will first consider what

Gerber files are.

Table of Contents

What is a Gerber File?

The Gerber file can be described as a unique 2D diagram that represents

every layer of the printed circuit board whereby different shapes and lines

represent vias, tracks, and pads. Explaining further, we mean that this is a

way of mechanically instructing the printing machine to help in crafting

the PCB board of your choice, with respect to the information given.

This unique method for manufacturing the PCB boards can be described

as the most acceptable option amongst the manufacturers and designers

because it is very specific and hardly experiences errors. Furthermore, all

the information regarding the circuit board like track width and length,

copper amount, as well as hole spacing, will be stored inside the Gerber

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File. Also, this style of data collection is very important to the PCB

construction in order to help it achieve its purpose. The file’s final version

seems to be a digital circuit board having all components attached to it.

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What Do PCB Gerber File Extensions Mean?

RS274X Gerber File

Manufacturers work with a PCB design software for creating Gerber files

used in upcoming electronics. Moreover, this process has to do with the

CAD tool you are making use of. Nevertheless, the machines usually

fashion the Gerber files, with respect to the Gerber format (RS-274X) that

superseded ineffective and ancient forms such as the Gerber standard

(RS-274-D).

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Also, you can note that the Gerber data doesn’t need any identifying name

like text files; moreover, it is usually associated with some extensions

like .gbr or .gb that are also viewed as the standard PCB Gerber file

extensions.

Asides from this Gerber file extensions list, there are other types of Gerber

files used. This depends on the PCB design software of the manufacturer.

The Standard Gerber (RS-274-D)

This can be described as the oldest representation of gerber files. The

RS-274-D was known to support basic capabilities for plotting such as

drawing trucks. This didn’t define margins and coordinates of drawing

distinctly.

Soon, this standard gerber suddenly became unpopular, which

eventually led to its revoke by developers back in 2014.

Extended Gerber (X-Gerber’s RS-274)

UCAMCO introduced this Gerber in 1988. It is useful for ASCII commands

that are human readable, which are combined to create 2D vector

graphics. Also, X-gerber integrates the utilization of metadata for defining

graphics. It associates with the .gbx and .gbr gerber file extensions.

Gerber X2

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The Gerber X2 is the most recent Gerber file format. It features different

improvements for the earlier file formats. Gerber X2 supports all

additional vendor extensions such as “.bot” and “.top”. Also, this file format

works with majority of today’s CAM software programs or applications.

How to Open a Gerber File

Below is a guide for opening a gerber file. Before you begin, there’s a need

to identify the type of file. These gerber files are usually saved in ZIP or

RAR format, which corresponds to the specific layer of the PCB layout.

Each one comes with its own gerber file extension.

Before opening a gerber file, click on File and then open it from your menu

bar. When it comes to viewing the gerber files, make use of the program

called Gerber Viewer. There are viewers that require installation, some

others can easily be checked or accessed online.

Whatever the case is, you have to choose a viewer which supports

contemporary file formats. In addition, you must choose one, which allows

the taking of precise measurements, and zooming in. This assists you in

testing of the circuits as well as adjusting the board.

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Also, you may have to download a unique online gerber viewer. This aids

in simplifying the entire process. In addition, the most important aspect

when opening the gerber file involves making sure that it works with your

choice of software.

In order to ensure compatibility, there’s a need to name the file making

use of a similar convention with the program. You can either regenerate

or delete them when they’re incompatible. Also, to be able to locate the

best possible viewer, choose or click on File, then click Open Layer(s). Here

you will find numerous programs that will open as well as edit the Gerber

file, some of which are free, while others are paid for.

You may make use of ViewMate and other comparable free programs.

These are user-friendly applications and they also provide advanced

features. Also, you will be able to view all the layers, go ahead to modify

every layer’s visibility, as well as measure the distance found between the

components.

In addition, these programs don’t allow users to save the drawings.

However, they play an important role in verifying your designs’ accuracy.

These applications will also be useful and important for quoting.

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Different CAD Softwares Used for the Gerber Files

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Computer-Aided Design or CAD involves the designing, developing and

drawing of the PCB using computer software. The programs used are

called CAD Software.

There are different circuit design softwares that work to meet the

requirement of the diversified layout that the manufacturers have

requested for. These include the online free circuit board design

software, industrial PCB softwares, as well as the free printed circuit board

design software.

In this section, we will be considering some reliable CAD as well as Gerber

Viewer softwares which are commonly utilized in circuit board

manufacturing.

Altium

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Altium features the Protel form of Gerber file extension and is known as

the most comprehensive and modern CAD software globally. It was

specifically designed for manufacturing PCB board and has maintained

the best option among the engineers and designers all over the world.

In addition, Altium didn’t just attain huge success overnight, as this current

version has been able to evolve through many decades of development

and innovation. Currently, Altium gerber file extensions are now at a stage

whereby it has the ability of creating a unique and unified environment,

which features the required tools for meeting the requirements of the

design.

KiCad

This can be described as an opensource software and gbr file reader. Also,

this software acts in line with the copyright agreement of the GNU. Just

like the other CAD softwares. KiCad offers designers and manufacturers

with a user interface that is graphical that aids in board construction.

In addition, you don’t need to utilize any specialized devices when working

with the KiCad software. Just the keyboard and mouse are okay.

Furthermore, it works on two main operating systems, which are Linux

and Windows.

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As you run the software, designers would see that KiCad offers some

support for schematic diagrams, PCB layouts, stable model view in 3D,

viewing of the Gerber file, and lots more. Also, this application includes 3D

libraries, symbols, and packages, which comes as bonus for users to

download.

Eagle

Eagle features reliable functions as well as a user-friendly interface that

aids in the construction of your circuit’s schematic diagram. In contrast to

the other products, Eagle gerber file extensions requests that users pay a

fee, which is financially acceptable, before making use of its features. The

truth is that the price charged is worth it because it comes with great

features such as online positive and negative annotation function, batch

command script files, copper cladding, and interactive follower.

Also, it is very important to note that EAGLE offers support for many

platforms, which includes Mac, Windows, and Linux. Also, it comes with

usable scripts, a very rich library, as well as CAM tools. All these are great

options for the designers of PCB boards that have the ability of working

with EAGLE gerber file extensions.

OrCAD

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This program has been available since late 1980s. In fact it is almost the

same age as Altium. This application is well-known among different

manufacturers as a result of their simple operation, simulation’s

important function, and a friendly interface for the users.

Immediately the schematic diagram has been imputed, the information

system of the component is included, which plays an important role in

authenticating, creating, and tracking of all the PCB board’s elements.

Also, all these features combine together, making it a great and reliable

option for all dedicated manufacturers. Though OrCAD isn’t regarded as

the most effective CAD software in the market, it comes with a great

management function as well as an environment that is well-integrated.

PADS

This software is widely regarded as the boss of CAD due to the fact that it

is comprehensive and user-friendly. In addition, the quality of the design is

better and impressive compared to other applications such as Allegro.

Furthermore, PADS is regarded as a good choice in the marketplace, and

is usually utilized by small companies. This is because it is comprehensive,

affordable, and user-friendly. This software also covers different functions

such as assembly files, schematic diagrams, output of the bill of material,

and more.

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How to Convert Gerber Files to PCB Files

Figure 6 Gerber files enable and disable and extensions

In order to convert your Gerber files into PCB, go to the Manu (Export

Format) and then choose that Gerber file. Next, deactivate your “Skip

Options Dialog.” Then, choose your PCB file and click “Next.”

Once you are done choosing your PCB file, your Gerber file would appear

in that folder containing the PCB file. Once you are done converting it, this

PCB file would be available for editing. Most electronic designer export

their designs to take the form of gerber files before sending them to the

facility used for PCB fabrication.

These files make up the universal language for PCB design. Also, the

equipment for PCB printing won’t understand the design in their absence.

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If you want to create PCBs, there’s a need to understand how you can

generate the Gerber files. Take note that ASCII is its file format. This

means that you can edit it using text editors.

From your file menu choose “Gerber Export.” You will see all the PCB

layers displayed in your PCB export tab. Also included are silkscreen,

mechanical, drill template, as well as electrical template layers.

Then, select “Create Artwork” for generating a printed circuit board

document that contains all layers. Also, you would need to type in the PCB

document’s parameters. There are many online programs, which allow

users to edit their gerber files.

Choose one that offers support for different output and input file types.

Also, the software permits necessary modifications into the design as well

as save it in whatever format that pleases you. Furthermore, many

programs offer support for different file formats. This allows users to

make use pf the Gerber Converter in creating the printed circuit board,

which best suits the design.

Important Features You Should Look Into For the Gerber File

Viewers

In order to select a reliable gerber file viewer, there may be a need to look

into the following features.

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Have wider printer compatibility

The viewer for the gerber file has to be compatible with different printers.

Asides from this, it must have room for different printing alternatives for

different printers.

Supports precision during viewing

Great gerber viewers must add features related to precision and zooming

measurements ensuring that you check through the circuits as well as

rectify all errors easily.

Support Modern File Types

A reliable gerber file must have the ability of supporting well known

modern files such as Excellon and HPGL/HPGL-2 among others.

Conclusion

To conclude, the Gerber file can be described as animated diagrams that

represent every facet of the circuit board where different shapes and lines

represent vias, tracks, and pads. In addition, the Gerber file extension

comes in different forms; however, the .gbr format is regarded as the

standard.

Also, creating your Gerber file will need CAD software which also functions

as the gbr file reader. Every application features unique benefits. However,
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we hope that our article was able to clarify what Gerber file extensions

are.

Related Posts:

1. How to open the EUR file? Step-By-Step Guide

2. How to Download and Use Eagle PCB Software

3. 50+ Simple electronic circuits projects for beginners

4. What does D-code Mean in Gerber

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