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Imagine a day when a design data file—not a traditional documentation package—is output directly from the eCAD system, transmitted to selected fabricators, and automatically loaded into their engineering/CAM systems, initiating tooling and production without any human intervention. This is zero touch data transfer in action.
By eliminating manual processes, front-end personnel at fabrication facilities can be redeployed to strategic areas such as R&D and customer engagement. Many of these professionals are ideally suited to transition into field application engineer (FAE) roles.
While many components of this vision exist independently today, full implementation remains elusive. Why? The core issue is cultural: the industry has long tolerated defective data packages. Currently, over 95% of manufacturing data packages are based on just three formats: Gerber (and its related documents), ODB++, and IPC-2581. Notably, ODB++ and IPC-2581 do not require the multitude of supplementary documents typically bundled with Gerber-based submissions.
To read this entire article, which appeared in the May 2025 issue of Design007 Magazine, click here.
