You are on page 1of 6

RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

What does D-code Mean in Gerber

Gerber files are important in the technical fields, and we can avail many

benefits from them as well. Today Gerber files are important. We can fully

rely on them in the field of PCBs, which gives us a helping hand for the

development of industrial PCBs. For these Gerber files, D-code and

coordinates are important. We need to rely on the photo plotting

technique to regulate the sketches of solder pads.

In the old times, Gerber files majorly had two formats, including RS-274-D

and RS-274-X. Their roles are also different. RS-274-D works on isolating

the coordinates from the D-codes. Whereas the RS-274-X depends on

combining the D-codes and coordinates into a single file with other factors

ad attributes. It includes custom D-codes, polygon filling, positive/negative

image combinations, and much more. There is no doubt that without

Gerber files, we cannot maintain precision in the field of PCBs. With these

files, we can also attain more accuracy in the PCB data and design

specifications on all counts. We are going to highlight D-codes in Gerber

files in this post.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Gerber Format:

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/


RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

Gerber is a standard file format that has common usage in the technical

fields of electronics and PCBs. Besides, these are useful for organizing the

data and specifications of PCB designs so that the seamless development

of PCBs can take place later through production.

Through Gerber files, we can easily fabricate the PCBs, determine the PCB

layers, assemble the accurate components, hole sizes, length of copper

traces, and much more. In short, Gerber files are important when we are

considering details and precision work regarding PCBs.

Understanding D-codes:

D-codes are the fundamental blocks of a Gerber file, and without them, we

cannot fully make these files work at their finest. Basically, D-code is a

special numeric identifier that relates to a particular sketch of the PCB

layer. Now every layer represents some specific information, and to easily

access them, we can use D-codes as their identifier. With these D-codes, a

producer can quickly use information regarding a specific layer on all

counts.

Request PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Quote Now

D-code & PCB Layers:

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/


RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

There are different D-codes that we need to consider regarding Gerber

files. These are different in terms of their roles, and it is better to have a

look at them to understand the role of D-codes in Gerber files completely.

1. D01: Top Copper Layer: This layer consists of all the mounted PCB

parts and other sensitive components of PCBs.

2. D02: Bottom Copper Layer: This layer houses conductive routes and

develops connections between the PCB parts on the whole.

3. D03: Solder Mask Top: This layer is important because it makes sure

that the solder mask completely covers the components and also

develops strong bonds without undergoing solder bumps.

4. D04: Solder Mask Bottom: It contains a protective solder mask for

the upper D03 layer.

5. D10: Drill Holes: It gives information regarding the positioning of

drill holes and vias.

6. D20: Top Silkscreen: This layer helps in labeling and marking PCBs

for the top layer, which helps in final assembly on all counts.

7. D21: Bottom Silkscreen: Just like information for the top layer is

important, we have this layer that helps with the labeling of the

bottom layer.

Importance of D-code in PCB Manufacturing:

Following are the major benefits that D-codes provide us with each time:

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/


RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

1. Clear Identification: With D-codes, we can easily rely on quick and

clear identification of PCB details, design specifications, and

component positioning in all circumstances.

2. Layer Differentiation: Since PCBs have multiple layers that have

different functions, we can exclude confusion and mishandling of

these layers by adhering to D-codes for proper management.

3. Accurate Reproduction: Accurate reproduction of PCB design is

clearly easier with the help of Gerber files because D-codes make it

possible for the producers.

4. Streamlined Production: A producer can easily streamline their PCB

production process with the help of D-codes by avoiding mishaps to

a large extent.

5. D-code Versatility in Multi-layer PCBs: You might not believe that

D-codes are also good with multilayer PCBs, where they make their

assembly and organization much easier for the producers.

Moreover, multilayer PCBs are complex, and we can use D-codes to

simplify positioning vias. It also develops strong electrical bonds

between them easily. It will help us with the fortification of signal

integrity, and there will be fewer chances of interference as well.

6. Customization and Manufacturing Flexibility: When we consider

D-codes, we can ensure more customization and production

flexibility for PCBs. There is no doubt today; producers are relying

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/


RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

on D-codes. So that accurate execution of intricate details can take

place in the case of complex types of PCBs. From impedance control

to signal routing and power distribution, there is nothing that

D-codes cannot provide us with information with.

7. Efficient Communication: With D-codes, it is obvious that we can see

efficient communication taking place between designers and

producers. So that a fine PCB can later be developed without any

faults and errors. D-codes are important in this regard because

every department can bring out precision in PCBs by sticking to the

information given by these D-codes in Gerber files.

Conclusion:

Gerber files are huge assets for technical producers to enhance the

efficiency of their products and develop precision PCBs. One of the main

aspects of Gerber files is the D-codes that we have discussed in this post

for you. D-codes are your key to reducing errors in your PCB designs and

establishing effective communication between different departments.

From making PCBs accurate to providing them with different features,

D-codes play a crucial role in the field of PCBs. We hope that now you can

simply adhere to D-codes in a better way for your future projects.

Related Posts:

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/


RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

1. How to laser QR Code on PCB Board

2. How to Read Resistor by Color Code

3. Cracking The Electronic Assembly Kits Code

4. How to Use the DXF to Gerber Converter

https://www.raypcb.com/what-does-d-code-mean-in-gerber/

PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Services https://www.raypcb.com/

You might also like