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GerbTool

See what the repair shop sees before you send it in

GerbTool reads the production data exactly as the PCB supplier receives it and identifies the errors that would otherwise result in a return request or a non-functional board.

The challenge

It costs you time and money

  • Errors in production data are first detected at the PCB supplier
  • The design tool's DRC checks the design, not the exported file
  • The panel, hole layout, and drawings are created by hand each time
  • Support responses that take days

The solution

We give you control back

  • DRC and DFM on the files that are actually sent
  • Netlist Comparison Between Design and Gerber Data
  • Panel layouts, hole patterns, and fabrication drawings are generated automatically
  • Local hotline with responses from a specialist on the same day

HOW IT WORKS

The verification is based on the data received by production

Independent of your design tool

GerbTool reads Gerber RS-274X, Excellon, ODB++, IPC-2581, and DXF files. It doesn't matter which ECAD tool the files come from.

Controls corresponding to production

Spacing, annular rings, acid traps, copper splinters, solder bridges, and pinholes. These are the defects a PCB supplier looks for, and these are the ones GerbTool finds first.

Four versions, depending on your needs

From a basic viewer to the full version with editing and panelization. You pay for the level of functionality you need.

Value

GerbTool covers everything from preview to the final production package

From import and verification to editing, panelization, and documentation—all based on the data to be sent to production.

Import and viewing

Data rarely arrives in a single format. Every format must be readable without anything being lost along the way.

Gerber RS-274X and ExcellonStandard formats from all ECAD tools
ODB++ and IPC-2581Intelligent formats with netlist and layer structure
DXF and Other FormatsMechanical components and drawings in the same view

DRC and DFM

A design can comply with all rules and still be difficult to manufacture. That is the difference between DRC and DFM.

Distances and annular ringVerified on the exported layers
Acid traps and copper splintersClassic etching defects
Solder Bridges and PinholesDefects that only become apparent during assembly

Netliste og verifikation

The most important check is the simplest one: Is what is being shipped the same as what was designed?

Netlist ComparisonDesign and Gerber data compared side by side
Layer View and ComparisonSee the differences between two revisions at a glance
Redline CommentsMarkups that can be forwarded to a colleague or supplier

Redigering og panelisering

Minor corrections shouldn't require going back to the design tool.

Editing Gerber DataCorrections made directly in the production files
Panel Assembly Using Step-and-RepeatPanel built from a single board
NC Drilling and MillingIncluding blind and buried vias

Documentation and Output

The final part of a production package is often the one that takes the longest to complete manually.

Automatic Dimensions and Hole PatternsGenerated based on actual data
Manufacturing DrawingsReady to send with the files
Export to Gerber, ODB++, IPC-2581, and DXFThe format requested by the supplier

Implementation

How GerbTool works in practice

1. The right edition from the start

Do you only need to view and comment on files, or do you also need to edit and panelize? We help you select the edition that matches your specific task, ensuring you do not pay for more than you use.

2. Checks adapted to your PCB partner

PCB manufacturers have varying requirements for clearances, drill sizes, and masks. We show you how to configure the checks according to the exact specifications your partner works with.

3. Local expertise and continuous support

You gain access to specialists who understand both the design and production sides. A question about a file error receives a concrete answer before it needs to be sent.

Ready?

Ready to design with peace of mind?

A short conversation is usually enough to determine which edition of GerbTool fits your needs. No pitch. No pressure. Just an open discussion about how your production data is generated today.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The design tool's DRC checks the design within the design database. GerbTool checks the files generated from it, which are the files production actually receives. Errors can occur during the export process itself, and the DFM checks are built around manufacturability, not just design rules.

GerbTool is available in four editions: Viewer for visualization, Communicator for format conversion and collaboration, Inspector for DRC and DFM, and Designer for editing and panelization. Most design departments need Inspector. If you also need to modify files or create panels, Designer is the right choice.

Yes. GerbTool reads standard formats such as Gerber, Excellon, ODB++, and IPC-2581, meaning it works with files from all standard ECAD tools, including non-Cadence software.

They are built on the same platform. GerbTool covers verification and preparation of production data. VisualCAM is the complete CAM solution, offering extended production checks and assembly features, such as reverse-engineering component information from Gerber data. If you handle production or assembly preparation in-house, VisualCAM is typically the right choice.

Contact us

Let us review your setup – without obligation.

A brief dialogue is often enough to clarify if Nordcad is the right choice for you. No pitch. No pressure.

15+ specialists