Gerber To Centroid - Step 4

Group Geometry Elements Together & Generate Geometry

In this step, there are a few things to accomplish. First, all elements that go into a single geometry must be identified and selected. These can include pads of the component, the silkscreen markings for the component, or any other graphics you wish to be included in the geometry. Second, the geometry needs a name, so you need to be prepared to name the geometry something that identifes what that geometry is. Third, the origin of the geometry needs to be defined. For various reasons, the easiest place to make the origin is directly over pin 1 of the component.

You should make sure your Snap Toolbar is visible for this step.

Group Geometry Elements Together

Multiple graphics can be selected in CAMCAD by holding the SHIFT key down while clicking on individual graphic elements. Each graphic that you want included in the geometry needs to be selected. The last selected item will be white, while the other elements that are selected are gray. If you want to clear you selections and start over, simply click in the empty black area, and all the selected graphics will be un-selected.

Define The Geometry Origin

Next, tell CAMCAD that you want to make a new geometry out of the selected elements. The CAMCAD command is Edit | Geometry | Generate Geometry.

The CAMCAD crosshairs turn into a "X". CAMCAD is asking for the origin for this component. Using the Snap Toolbar, turn on the Snap functions and choose Snap To Insert and Snap To Centers.

Float the crossharirs over the pin 1 of the component, and the "X" should snap to the exact center of the pad. Single left click to mark that point as the origin for the geometry.

Name The Geometry

Next, name the geometry that you are creating. You should use a name that is informative about the component you are defining. Click the OK button to complete the process.