The ODB++ database was developed by Valor as a way of transmitting a complete set of board manufacturing data and instructions from the designer to the PCB manufacturer. Unlike Gerber data, which is only "artwork" the ODB++ database includes artwork, nets, layer stackup, drill, BOM and even manufacturing checklists.
Most PCB design tools can export ODB++ although what data is embedded into ODB++ varies with each tool.
Artwork provides a family of ODB++ translators and postprocessors that are of use for those working with masks and also those who need interfaces to simulation software.
Converts ODB++ to RS274X. Why do this when Valor's tools and most other CAM software can export RS274X from ODB++? Primarily as a mate to our GBR_RIP software which is used by several OEM's as their raster engine. This will enable those OEM's to offer direct support for ODB++
Converts ODB++ to GDSII Stream. Why? Because some of the PCB layouts now being built have such fine linewidths that semiconductor type equipment is used to fabricate the masks and boards. In such cases, the required database to drive these machines is GDSII stream.
Converts ODB++ to a family of net/geometry databases used by EM simulators. Similar to our NETEX-G program but has the advantage that ODB++ contain conductors, stackup, material, nets and component information all in one place.
A new generation high performance multi-threaded rasterizer for ODB++ which is replacing ODBRIP. QisMOdbrip is available in both command line and as an API.
Converts ODB++ to 3D format (3Di/STEP) A new effort to convert ODB++ files to various 3D formats useful for modeling PCBs. This includes Artwork's 3Di file format as well as STEP and parasolids.
Equipment manufacturers of laser writers may wish to investigate Artwork's ODBRIP. It allows the equipment to directly read and rasterizer ODB++ data instead of making an intermediate conversion to Gerber.
The IPC2581 database was developed by IPC in 2004 as a way of transmitting a complete set of board manufacturing data and instructions from the designer to the PCB manufacturer. Unlike Gerber data, which is only "artwork" the IPC2581 database includes artwork, nets, layer stackup, drill, BOM and even manufacturing checklists.
ODB++ & GDSII to GDSII translator to aid in the high speed rasterization of very large panels that contain repeating data such as those used to manufacture printed circuit boards, IC packages and LCD displays..
Reads ODB++ and converts the layout information into Micronic's MIC format. Designed for the next generation of large area Micronic Laser imagers for printed circuit boards and IC packages ...
Newly Optimized 64 bit code for high speed extraction of bitmapped clips from a large and complex ODB++ data. Built for an inspection equipment client.