For clients using Altium Designer, this guide will help you configure and
output Gerber files as well as NC Drill files in RS274X format. It is assumed
that you have finished designing your schematic as well as PCB layout. You
should have both a .SchDoc file (schematic) and a .PcbDoc file (PCB layout) at
this stage.
Generating Gerber Files
Step 1: First, navigate to “File” tab at the top left corner of the program
window. Next select “Fabrication Outputs” and in that drop-down menu select
“Gerber Files”.
Step 2: Once Gerber Files is selected the window below will appear which will
allow you to specify the units and number digits before or after the decimal
point.
Step 3: Next, using the tabs at the top of the window, navigate to the
“Layers” tab. This will allow you to select which layers will be used for the
output gerber files. If you are unsure which layers will be used, select the
“Plot Layers” tab in the bottom left of the window and click “All ON” so it is
highlighted. This will select all possible layers in the project for output.
Step 4: Afterward, using the tabs at the top of the window again, navigate to
the “Apertures” tab. While in this window, ensure that the “Embedded Apertures
(RS274X)” box is checked. The rest of the window can be left in its default
settings.
Step 5: Finally, once again using the tabs at the top of the window, navigate
to the “Advanced” tab. The settings in this window can be left default unless
your design has special requirements. When you are finished press “Ok” in the
bottom right of the window which will begin the output process for your gerber
files.
Step 6: Once your main layer files are completed you need to output your NC
Drill files. When fabricating your PCBs, these files indicate the size and
placement of the holes which will be drilled for vias, mounting points, etc.
First, return to the top left of the program and select “File”. In the drop-down
menu select “Fabrication Outputs” and then “NC Drill Files”.
Step 7: The previous step will open up the NC Drill File setup window. This
will allow you to specific units and the number of digits before or after the
decimal. This window can be left default unless your project requires specific
parameters.
Step 8: Finally, if you have saved all your files in one location you should
have a similar number of files as shown in the picture below. Remember when
submitting your files, it is best to compress the files in a .zip file to ensure
they remain grouped together.