Export Gerber Files from KiCad

Exporting Gerber files from KiCad is an essential step to prepare your design for PCB Productie en PCB-assemblage. These files allow manufacturers to accurately fabricate your board and ensure smooth SMT-assemblage en Turnkey PCB-assemblage.

Below is a step-by-step guide to exporting Gerber files from KiCad.

Step 1: Open Your PCB Layout

Open your PCB project in KiCad and launch the PCB Editor (PCBNew).

Before exporting, run a Design Rule Check (DRC) to ensure there are no layout errors that could affect PCB Manufacturing.

Step 2: Open Plot (Gerber) Settings

In the PCB Editor, go to:

File → Plot

This opens the Gerber export (plot) window where you configure all output settings.

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Step 3: Configure General Settings

In the Plot window:

• Set Output format to Gerber
• Kies Units (millimeters recommended)
• Set Precision (e.g., 4.6 format)
• Select Use Protel filename extensions (commonly required by manufacturers)

These settings ensure compatibility with standard PCB Productie processen.

Step 4: Select Layers to Export

Choose all necessary PCB layers.

Typical layers include:

• F.Cu (Top Copper)
• B.Cu (Bottom Copper)
• Inner layers (for multilayer boards)
• F.Mask (Top Solder Mask)
• B.Mask (Bottom Solder Mask)
• F.SilkS (Top Silkscreen)
• B.SilkS (Bottom Silkscreen)
• Edge.Cuts (Board Outline)

Selecting the correct layers is critical for accurate PCB-assemblage.

Step 5: Plot Gerber Files

Click the Plot button to generate Gerber files.

KiCad will export one file per selected layer into your chosen output directory.

Step 6: Generate Drill Files

Gerber files must be accompanied by drill data.

Click Generate Drill Files in the same window.

Configure:

• Drill units (match Gerber units)
• File format (Excellon)

Then click Generate Drill File.

This file defines hole sizes and positions for PCB Productie.

Step 7: Verify Gerber Files

Always verify your Gerber files before sending them for PCB-assemblage.

Use KiCad’s built-in Gerber Viewer (GerbView) or a third-party viewer to check:

• Layer alignment
• Board outline accuracy
• Pad and via placement
• Solder mask openings

Verification helps prevent issues during SMT-assemblage.

Step 8: Prepare Full Assembly Package

Voor Turnkey PCB-assemblage, you should provide a complete set of files:

• Gerber-bestanden
• Drill files
• BOM (stuklijst)
• Pick and place (centroid) file
• Montagetekeningen

This ensures smooth coordination between PCB fabrication and assembly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting the Edge.Cuts layer (board outline)
• Missing solder mask or silkscreen layers
• Using inconsistent units between files
• Not generating drill files
• Skipping file verification

Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure a successful PCB Manufacturing process.

Conclusie

Exporting Gerber files from KiCad is a straightforward process when done correctly. By selecting the right layers, generating drill files, and verifying outputs, you can ensure accurate results in PCB Productie, SMT-assemblage, en Turnkey PCB-assemblage.

A complete and correct file package reduces errors, shortens lead times, and guarantees high-quality PCB production.

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