What is a Gerber file?
A Gerber file is a standard file format used in the printed circuit board (PCB) industry to describe the layout and design of a PCB. It is named after the Gerber Scientific Instrument Company, which developed the format in the 1960s. Gerber files are essential for PCB fabrication, as they contain all the necessary information for manufacturing, including the copper layers, solder mask, silk screen, and drill holes.
Gerber files are typically generated by PCB design software, such as Altium Designer, Eagle, or KiCad. They are then sent to PCB manufacturers, who use them to create the physical boards. Gerber files are text-based and consist of a series of commands that describe the various features of the PCB.
Common Gerber file extensions
| Extension | Description |
|---|---|
| .gbr | Generic Gerber file extension |
| .gbl | Bottom copper layer |
| .gbs | Bottom solder mask layer |
| .gbo | Bottom silk screen layer |
| .gtl | Top copper layer |
| .gts | Top solder mask layer |
| .gto | Top silk screen layer |
| .txt | Drill file |
Why view Gerber files online?
There are several reasons why you might want to view Gerber files online:
-
Collaboration: Sharing Gerber files online allows you to collaborate with teammates, clients, or manufacturers, even if they don’t have PCB design software installed.
-
Verification: Viewing Gerber files online helps you verify that the design is correct before sending it for manufacturing, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
-
Accessibility: Online Gerber viewers make it easy to access your PCB design files from any device with an internet connection, without the need for specialized software.
-
Cost-effective: Many online Gerber viewers are free or have free plans, making them an affordable option for hobbyists, students, or small businesses.
Top free online Gerber viewers
1. PCBWay Gerber Viewer
PCBWay offers a free online Gerber viewer that supports a wide range of Gerber file formats. It provides a user-friendly interface with features like layer visibility control, measurement tools, and design rule checking (DRC). PCBWay’s viewer also allows you to share your Gerber files with others via a unique URL.
2. EasyEDA Gerber Viewer
EasyEDA is an online PCB design platform that includes a free Gerber viewer. It supports various Gerber file formats and provides a simple, intuitive interface for viewing and inspecting your PCB designs. EasyEDA’s viewer also offers layer visibility control and measurement tools.
3. CircuitPeople Gerber Viewer
CircuitPeople provides a free online Gerber viewer with support for multiple file formats. It offers a clean, easy-to-use interface with features like layer visibility control, measurement tools, and the ability to export images of your PCB design.
4. Gerbv
Gerbv is an open-source Gerber viewer that can be used both offline and online. While it doesn’t have a dedicated online version, you can use a web-based IDE like Repl.it to run Gerbv in your browser. Gerbv supports a wide range of Gerber file formats and offers advanced features like aperture editing and design rule checking.
5. Tracespace Gerber Viewer
Tracespace offers a free online Gerber viewer with a minimalist, user-friendly interface. It supports various Gerber file formats and provides basic features like layer visibility control and the ability to export images of your PCB design.
How to use an online Gerber viewer
Using an online Gerber viewer is generally a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
-
Select your Gerber files: Choose the Gerber files you want to view. These files should include all the necessary layers for your PCB design, such as copper layers, solder mask, and silk screen.
-
Upload the files: Upload your Gerber files to the online viewer. Most viewers support drag-and-drop or browsing for files from your local machine.
-
Configure layer visibility: Once your files are loaded, the viewer will display your PCB design. Use the layer visibility controls to show or hide specific layers, making it easier to inspect your design.
-
Inspect your design: Use the viewer’s tools, such as zoom, pan, and measurement, to thoroughly inspect your PCB design. Check for any errors, inconsistencies, or design rule violations.
-
Share or export: If needed, share your PCB design with others by sending them a link to the viewer or exporting an image of your design for reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are online Gerber viewers secure?
Most reputable online Gerber viewers use secure connections (HTTPS) to protect your data during transmission. However, it’s essential to read the privacy policy and terms of service of the viewer you choose to understand how your data is handled and stored.
2. Can I edit Gerber files using an online viewer?
Most online Gerber viewers are designed for viewing and inspecting PCB designs, not editing them. If you need to make changes to your Gerber files, you’ll typically need to use PCB design software.
3. What if my Gerber files are in a format not supported by the viewer?
If your Gerber files are in a format not supported by the online viewer, you may need to convert them using PCB design software or a dedicated Gerber file converter. Many PCB manufacturers also provide free Gerber file conversion services.
4. Can I view multi-layer PCB designs with online Gerber viewers?
Yes, most online Gerber viewers support multi-layer PCB designs. You’ll need to upload all the necessary Gerber files for each layer, and the viewer will display them as a single, unified design.
5. Are there any limitations to using free online Gerber viewers?
Free online Gerber viewers may have limitations in terms of file size, number of files, or advanced features compared to paid or offline alternatives. However, for most basic PCB design viewing and inspection needs, free online viewers are sufficient.
Conclusion
Online Gerber viewers are a convenient, cost-effective way to view, inspect, and share your PCB designs without the need for specialized software. By choosing a reputable, free online viewer that supports your Gerber file formats, you can easily collaborate with others, verify your designs, and ensure your PCBs are ready for manufacturing.
When using online Gerber viewers, always prioritize security and privacy, and be aware of any limitations compared to paid or offline alternatives. With the right online viewer, you can streamline your PCB design workflow and focus on creating high-quality, error-free designs.