ODB ++ is a format for data exchange between CAD, CAM and assembly in the development and manufacture of electronic equipment. ODB ++ is, compared to the Gerber format, a fairly new data format that helps preventing many errors and data misinterpretation especially in printed circuit board manufacturing.
Using ODB++ PCB design information can be transfered between design and production, and between design tools of different CAD and CAM vendors. All production data is stored in one single record.
We naturally import your ODB++, Gerber-, KiCad-, OrCAD-, Target-, Eagle-, Altium-, IPC-2581-, DPF- and Sprint layout data free of charge!
Instead of the uncommon IPC-2581 format we recommend ODB ++ data!
Benefits
The advantages of ODB++ format are:
- All design data for manufacturing, assembly and testing in one single file
- Supports integrated DFM at all layers
- Minimize supply chain risks related to errors in data transmission
- Reduced communication caused delays between design and manufacturing
- Allows a maximum degree of automation during all phases of circuit board manufacturing
- ODB++ is supported by all major vendors of CAD, CAM and DFM tools
- De facto standard of circuit board manufacturers
- ODB++ contains a complete layer table, which describes the original layer name, the layer type and the order of layers
- In ODB++, unlike in Gerber data, the difference between a pad and a conductor is mostly clear
- Through an attribute system, even fiducials, testing points, etc. can be defined
Multi-CB parameters
For an optimal result, please define the free-of-charge high-tech parameters of Multi-CB:
- Track-width / space: 0.1mm (100µm) - free-of-charge ✓
- Annular ring: 0.1mm (100µm) - free-of-charge ✓
- Drills: 0.2mm (200µm) - free-of-charge ✓
- Via-Pad: 0.4mm (400µm) - free-of-charge ✓
This guarantees the best technology at the best price. The minimum possible values can be found here: Circuit board design parameters.
History
The ODB++ format was originally developed by Valor Computerized Systems Ltd. and was then acquired by Mentor Graphics in 2010, as a job description format for their CAM system. The ODB++ format is today the de facto standard in PCB production.
ODB++ stands for Open Database and is available now in two different versions. The original version (ODB++) now further developed by Mentor and ODB++ (X) which is based on XML structures and is now driven by the IPC standard IPC-2581. Unlike ODB++ IPC-2581 is not yet a widely used format.