Beyond Design: Micro-ohm Power Delivery Network for AI-driven GPUs
Fresh PCB Concepts: Quick-turn Prototype PCB Fabrication to Production Volume
Elementary, Mr. Watson: The Four Horsemen of Copper Confusion
Ucamco Releases Specification for Fabrication Documentation in Gerber
April 30, 2018 | UcamcoEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Since decades Gerber is the standard for describing the images – copper layers, solder mask, drills – in PCB fabrication data. Attributes introduced with Gerber X2 ‘add intelligence to the image’ by identifying layers, vias, SMD pad, component pin numbers and reference designator.
But PCB fabrication data is not just about images - it includes fabrication documentation such as finish, overall thickness and materials. It is essential for the quoting, planning, engineering, CAM and fabrication of the bare and assembled board. It is often transferred informally, in drawings and texts, and handled manually, wasting time and risking errors. The Gerber Job File transfers this information in a machine-readable manner as part of Gerber fabrication data.
The extension is compatible with both Gerber X1 and X2. Existing image input/output code does not need to be changed when implementing the Gerber job file.
The Gerber hallmark of simplicity and human-readability is maintained.
The Gerber Job File is straightforward to implement. Partial implementations are allowed, even encouraged. Better a partial job file than no job file at all. Developers can pick and choose from the spec what suits them. Several software suppliers have already committed to support the new Gerber Job File.
The initial draft was published on the Ucamco website for public review by the Gerber community in March 2017. There was a lively discussion, the draft went through seven public revisions before being finalized early April 2018. It became much more practical in the process.
About Ucamco
Ucamco (formerly Barco ETS) is a market leader in PCB CAM software, photoplotting and direct imaging systems, with a global network of sales and support centers. Headquartered in Ghent, Belgium, Ucamco has over 25 years of ongoing experience in developing and supporting leading-edge photoplotters and front-end tooling solutions for the global PCB industry. Key to this success is the company's uncompromising pursuit of engineering excellence in all its products. Ucamco also owns the IP rights on the Gerber File Format through its acquisition of Gerber Systems Corp. (1998).
The specification and example files are available at the Gerber page, click here.
Share on:
Testimonial
"In a year when every marketing dollar mattered, I chose to keep I-Connect007 in our 2025 plan. Their commitment to high-quality, insightful content aligns with Koh Young’s values and helps readers navigate a changing industry. "
Brent Fischthal - Koh YoungSuggested Items
Indium Experts to Present on Power Electronics at productronica 2025
11/14/2025 | Indium CorporationAs one of the leading materials providers to the power electronics assembly and e-Mobility industries, Indium Corporation® experts will share their technical insight and knowledge on a variety of industry-related topics during Productronica, November 18-21, in Munich, Germany.
ESCATEC Installs Third Wave Soldering Machine in Penang to Meet Growing Demand
11/14/2025 | ESCATECESCATEC’s business unit in Penang, ESCATEC Electronics Sdn Bhd (EEM), recently welcomed the installation of an advanced Ersa POWERFLOW ULTRA wave soldering system, strengthening its capabilities and production capacity for customers bringing complex high-tech products to market.
Mycronic Unveils BA 01 Small Dot Ejector for Next-Generation Precision Jet Printing
11/12/2025 | MycronicMycronic’s BA 01 small dot ejector, delivers unmatched precision in solder paste jet printing for advanced PCB designs.
Indium is Electrifying the Future with Advanced Materials Solutions at productronica
11/11/2025 | Indium CorporationAs one of the leading providers in advanced materials solutions for power device packaging and materials for the electronics assembly and solder industries, Indium Corporation® is proud to feature its lineup of high-reliability products at Productronica, taking place November 18-21, in Munich, Germany.
KOKI to Host Technical Webinar on Dewetting Defects in SMT Soldering
11/11/2025 | KOKIKOKI, a global leader in advanced soldering materials and process solutions, announced its upcoming technical webinar, “Understanding and Preventing Dewetting Defects in SMT Soldering.”