From a designers point of view: Even before the advent of GENCAM was IPC's effort with IPC-350. In fact, that is where CAM350 got it's name. The original intent of that application was to output the "new" industry standard data format, IPC-350. This later gave way to GENCAM which has now stepped aside (or- been pushed aside) for ODB++. The impetus to develop an industry standard data exchange format has been around for over a decade. So, what is standing the way? EDA software companies! Imagine the convenience designers would experience if there was a data format that could be easily exchanged between design platforms! Good God, could this have any effect on market share? I think not.. but I believe that is the fear held by the EDA vendors. It will surely be a cold day when a standard data format will be supported by vendors of PCB design applications. I am convinced this function will continue to be relegated to applications that are in the CAM arena and will remain a post-processing function for the designer. The objectives Joe listed below were shared by the IPC-350 effort as well. Denis Lefebvre, C.I.D. Senior PCB Designer Finisar Corporation (408)542-3832 http://www.finisar.com At 08:49 AM 1/31/2002 -0500, you wrote: >Good day to all, > >It seems that IPC GenCAM is missing from this discussion. 25 years or so >of group effort to develop a generic industry standard sitting on the >sidelines in this dialog. > >The following is taken from the forum sponsors website > >"...Establishes the capability for a single ANSI STD datafile format to >transfer data to all disciplines in the PCB supply chain. > >...Provides for complete transfer of test data and electrical test >parameters. > >...Can accommodate several BOM descriptions in a single data file. > >...Brings your design into close contact with DFM issues." > >Has anyone taken it for a lap? Is (are) there a reason(s) for its absence >in this dialog? > >Best to all, >Joe