ODB++

ODB++ is a fixed format for PCB data. One archive holds the copper layers, the drill data, the stackup and the component placements. We read it as it is. Because the format is fixed, there are no file names, units, column names or decimal separators to guess. That makes it a welcome addition to your Gerber and drill set, but not a replacement for it.

What we read from it

For the bare board: the layers, the drill data and the stackup, which we use for the PCB specification. For the assembly: the designator, position, rotation, side, package and even the outline of each part, in millimetres. So an ODB++ archive replaces your centroid. If your CAD tool exports the part properties too, we also get the manufacturer and the part number.

Send a Gerber and drill set with it

ODB++ is a proprietary format from Siemens. Most PCB manufacturers want a Gerber and drill set and do not accept it. If you only send an ODB++ archive, we can have the bare board made by a few manufacturers only. Send a Gerber and drill set with it and every manufacturer stays open.

It does not replace the BOM

An ODB++ archive cannot tell us how to buy the parts: which ones are not placed, where to order them and under which number, which ones you supply yourself, which alternatives you allow, and your remarks. So add an Excel or CSV BOM for the parts.

Look before you send

Our open source ODB++ viewer shows every layer of the job, a realistic top and bottom view, the placements and the stackup, in your browser. There is nothing to install and we do not store your archive.

Your price in seconds

Fill out the calculator and you have a price that is about 95% correct. Upload your files and we make it final in our offer.