There is a definite advantage to using ODB++ output files instead of gerber.
ODB++ has not only shapes identified in the artwork (like gerber), but also
the type of feature it is (SMT pad, etc.).  Gerber output files do not have
this type of intelligence to them -- they simply contain a list of
apertures/shapes with their specified locations.

The other advantage to ODB++ is that you remove the "translation" portion of
the pre-engineering work at the circuit board manufacturer.  The same ODB++
files that are output by the customer are read directly into Genesis at the
board manufacturer without any need for data translation.  This removes the
possibility of error during the translation process.

As far as disadvantages, I can't think of any.  Most CAD softwares have free
downloads for outputting these types of files.  This makes it compatible
with most design packages out there.

Regards,
Sue Macaluso

Photocircuits Corporation
31 Sea Cliff Avenue
Glen Cove, New York  11542
Phone:  (516) 609-1231
Fax:    (516) 609-1713
Pager:  (516) 657-7595
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
web:    www.photocircuits.com
IP:     10.1.1.178

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Jim Steadman [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: Thursday, November 11, 2004 6:28 PM
> To:   [log in to unmask]
> Subject:      [TN] OT: ODB++ files
>
> Hi all,
>  Our board house can use ODB++ files. Is there an advantage or
> disadvantage
> to using these instead of gerbers?
>             TIA
>                Jim
>
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