Learn Guides > Translate: DXF to Gerber

Convert a PCB created in AutoCAD to Gerber(s) using ACE Translator 3000.

Command Sequence

1. Select "DXF" from the Import Format drop down list. The ACE Translator will display options for you to assign DXF units and scale.

Note: DXF files are unit-less, and it is important that you are aware of the imported DXF file units & scale. ACE needs to know what physical unit and scale to use for 1 DXF unit.

2. Select a DXF Scale of 1.0, and Units "Inch". For more information review: DXF Import Options

3. Select "Gerber" from the Export Format drop down list

4. Click the 'Next' button to proceed. You will be prompted to select the DXF file (for importing)

5. Select the example DXF file "pcb.dxf" (located in the ACE examples folder - /examples/dxf ). The DXF Import options page will now be displayed.

6. Select from the DXF Layer Config Wizard combo - "Standard PCB (Double Sided)".

Note: The DXF Layer Config Wizard is a preset feature used to optimize your DXF layer settings (such as Fill, Polyline End cap, AutoFlash) for the most common type of design your translating. Choose whatever description best describes the type of DXF design. The feature is optional.

7. Click the 'Next' button to proceed to export options.

8. Verify Export Gerber options, and Click the 'Next' button to proceed to begin translation.

9. Review the "Export Layers Map". Click 'Next' to select the directory for the Gerber files.

Note: Each selected layer will be exported as an individual gerber file. Using the check boxes in the Export column, select the layers you want to export or deselect the layers you don't want exported. To Select All, right-click within any checkbox column. You may Mirror and/or assign Negative polarity to any layer by selecting the appropriate check boxes. Layers may also be renamed. Click \'Next\' to select the export folder for the Gerber files.

Note: Negative and Mirror options are placed set the Gerber file (if you have selected), however they will not appear in the ACE Viewer.

10. You will be prompted to select the export folder for the Gerber file. Once you have selected a Gerber folder to export, ACE will begin to write the Gerber files.

Note: If you choose a folder that does not exist, ACE will create a new folder automatically.

12. When the Finish Log is displayed, you may do the following:

(A) View the Gerber files by clicking the button 'View File(s)'.

(B) Restart ACE for another conversion, by clicking the button 'Re-Start'.

Note: The file location of the exported folder for the Gerber files is displayed in the Finish Log. These Gerber can now be used with any CAM program such as Fab It!, Valor, Graphicode, etc.

Note: Press 'F4' at anytime to review the ACE translation log.