IDF V2.0 Layout Write
Overview
CAMCAD creates a standard Intermediate Data Format v2.0
file, a defacto standard for transferring data between ECAD
and Mechanical formats. In addition, Router Solutions provides
an IDF Plug-in for Solidworks, which allows for accurate 3D
reproduction of 2D ECAD data on the Solidworks Mechanical modeling
platforms.
Versions Supported
CAMCAD writes IDF v2.0 files, as defined by the Intermediate
Data Format 2.x specifications. The IDF plug-in is compatible
with current Solidworks platforms, including Solidworks 99,
2000, and 2001.
Specific Export Procedures
Before exporting, here are some guidelines to follow for
robust data exports:
1. Make sure that you have a contiguous, closed,
Primary Board Outline defined. The procedure for closing
a board outline that is segmented is documented in the Auto-Join
feature.
2. Make sure that each component is a closed, continuous
shape.
3. Make sure that the file that you are exporting has the
component height attribute mapped to the CAMCAD internal attribute
COMPHEIGHT. This is the attribute used for defining
compnent height. CAMCAD is often able to automatically detect
internal ECAD attributes, however, if you need to map an attribute
to the COMPHEIGHT attribute, this can easily be done using
the Keyword
Map Editor.
After preparing the ECAD data, Exporting IDF files is a fairly
straightforward procedure, with little user intervention required.
Simply go to File | Export | IDF v2 Export in
the Licensed Export module box. If the module appears in the
unlicensed box, please contact Router Solutions Technical
Support for assistance.
The dialogue will ask you to give your set of board and library
files (*.emn and *.emp) a specific name that will apply to
the both of them. Enter one name, and press the Save button.
The IDF files will then be created.
For instructions on using the IDF export, please browse the
Using the IDF file section.
Tips, Notes and Exporting Questions
What about components without the COMPHEIGHT attribute?
Will they be dropped?
No. CAMCAD will still translate through parts without the
COMPHEIGHT attribute attached to a part. Instead, the export
module will use the .DEFAULTSHAPEHEIGHT setting in the file.
Can I adjust the layer thickness of my IDF output?
Yes, this is also controlled in the
IDF.OUT file with the .DEFAULTLAYERTHICKNESS setting.
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