What Gerber Files are Supported by RAY PCB?

What are Gerber Files?

Gerber files are the industry standard file format used to describe the printed circuit board (PCB) design for manufacturing. These files contain all the necessary information for the PCB fabricator to produce the physical circuit board, including the copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, and drill data.

Gerber files are plain text files that use a specific syntax to represent the PCB design data. Each Gerber file corresponds to a specific layer or aspect of the PCB, such as the top copper layer, bottom copper layer, solder mask, and so on.

Gerber File Extensions and Their Meanings

RAY PCB supports a variety of Gerber file extensions, each representing a specific layer or aspect of the PCB design. Here are the common Gerber file extensions and their meanings:

It’s important to ensure that your Gerber files are named correctly using the appropriate file extensions. This helps the PCB manufacturer identify the specific layers and aspects of your PCB design easily.

Gerber File Formats Supported by RAY PCB

RAY PCB supports the following Gerber file formats:

1. RS-274X (Extended Gerber): RS-274X, also known as Extended Gerber or Gerber X, is the most widely used Gerber file format. It is an enhanced version of the original RS-274D format and supports additional features such as aperture definitions and polarity controls. RAY PCB fully supports RS-274X Gerber files.

2. Gerber X2: Gerber X2 is an extension of the RS-274X format that includes additional metadata and design intent information. It provides more comprehensive and intelligent data for PCB fabrication and assembly. RAY PCB supports Gerber X2 files, allowing you to include extra information such as layer types, materials, and more.

3. ODB++: ODB++ (Open Database++) is a comprehensive PCB design data format that includes not only the Gerber data but also the bill of materials (BOM), component placement data, and other relevant information. RAY PCB accepts ODB++ files, providing a streamlined and efficient way to transfer your complete PCB design data.

Preparing Your Gerber Files for RAY PCB

To ensure smooth and accurate PCB fabrication, it’s crucial to prepare your Gerber files correctly before submitting them to RAY PCB. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Use a reliable PCB design software: Choose a reputable PCB design software that supports generating high-quality Gerber files. Popular options include Altium Designer, KiCad, Eagle, and OrCAD.

2. Set the correct Gerber file export settings: When exporting Gerber files from your PCB design software, ensure that you select the appropriate settings. Use the RS-274X or Gerber X2 format and specify the correct file extensions for each layer.

3. Include all necessary layers: Make sure to include all the required layers in your Gerber file package. This typically includes the copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, and drill data. Double-check that you have exported all the necessary files.

4. Use a consistent units system: Specify the units system (metric or imperial) used in your Gerber files. It’s recommended to use metric units (millimeters) for consistency and accuracy.

5. Verify your Gerber files: Before submitting your Gerber files to RAY PCB, it’s a good practice to verify them using a Gerber viewer tool. This helps identify any potential issues or errors in your files, such as missing apertures or incorrect polarity settings.

6. Provide clear instructions: If you have any specific requirements or instructions for your PCB fabrication, make sure to communicate them clearly to RAY PCB. This can include specifying the PCB thickness, copper weight, surface finish, and any other relevant details.

Common Issues with Gerber Files and How to Resolve Them

While preparing your Gerber files for PCB fabrication, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few problems that can arise and how to resolve them:

1. Missing or incorrect file extensions: Ensure that your Gerber files have the correct file extensions corresponding to the appropriate layers. Refer to the table provided earlier in this article for the common file extensions used.

2. Incorrect aperture definitions: Check that your Gerber files include the necessary aperture definitions. If apertures are missing or defined incorrectly, it can lead to manufacturing issues. Use a Gerber viewer to verify the aperture definitions.

3. Overlapping or conflicting features: Inspect your Gerber files for any overlapping or conflicting features, such as overlapping traces or pads. These issues can cause short circuits or manufacturing problems. Use a design rule check (DRC) tool in your PCB design software to identify and resolve such conflicts.

4. Incorrect polarity settings: Verify that your Gerber files have the correct polarity settings. Incorrect polarity can result in inverted copper layers or incorrect solder mask openings. Consult your PCB design software’s documentation for the proper polarity settings.

5. Incomplete or missing drill data: Make sure to include the necessary drill data files (.TXT, .DRL, or .NCDRILL) in your Gerber file package. These files contain the information required for drilling holes in the PCB. Double-check that the drill files are complete and correctly formatted.

If you encounter any issues with your Gerber files or have questions about the PCB fabrication process, don’t hesitate to reach out to RAY PCB’s technical support team. They can provide guidance and assistance in resolving any problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: What is the preferred Gerber file format for RAY PCB?
   A: RAY PCB prefers the RS-274X (Extended Gerber) format for Gerber files. This format is widely supported and provides comprehensive PCB design data.

2. Q: Can I submit my PCB design in a format other than Gerber?
   A: Yes, RAY PCB also accepts PCB design data in the ODB++ format. ODB++ includes not only the Gerber data but also additional information such as the bill of materials and component placement data.

3. Q: How do I ensure that my Gerber files are correctly formatted?
   A: To ensure your Gerber files are correctly formatted, use a reliable PCB design software that supports generating high-quality Gerber files. Follow the software’s guidelines for exporting Gerber files and double-check the file extensions and aperture definitions.

4. Q: What should I do if I encounter issues with my Gerber files?
   A: If you encounter issues with your Gerber files, such as missing apertures or incorrect polarity settings, use a Gerber viewer tool to verify and identify the problems. You can also reach out to RAY PCB’s technical support team for assistance and guidance.

5. Q: How do I submit my Gerber files to RAY PCB?
   A: To submit your Gerber files to RAY PCB, package all the necessary files (Gerber files, drill files, and any additional documentation) into a single compressed file format like ZIP or RAR. Then, upload the compressed file through RAY PCB’s online quotation and ordering system or contact their sales team for further instructions.

Conclusion

Understanding the Gerber file formats supported by RAY PCB is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful PCB fabrication process. RAY PCB supports the widely used RS-274X (Extended Gerber) format, as well as the more advanced Gerber X2 and ODB++ formats.

When preparing your Gerber files for RAY PCB, use a reliable PCB design software, set the correct export settings, include all necessary layers, and verify your files using a Gerber viewer tool. If you encounter any issues or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to RAY PCB’s technical support team for assistance.

By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Gerber files are properly formatted and ready for PCB fabrication with RAY PCB. With high-quality Gerber files and RAY PCB’s expertise in PCB manufacturing, you can bring your PCB designs to life with confidence.