ODB++
ODB++ is a data format used in the design and manufacture of electronic devices to exchange printed circuit board data between design and manufacturing, and between design tools from different EDA vendors.[1] It was originally developed by Valor Computerized Systems, Ltd. (subsequently acquired by Mentor Graphics[2]) as the database for their CAM system.[1] There are two versions of ODB++: the original (controlled by Mentor) and an XML version which is the result of collaboration between Mentor and the IPC organization[3] in an attempt to merge GenCAM (IPC-2511A/B) and ODB++. The XML version is called ODB++(X).[4] Manufacturers are adopting it to overcome the limitations of the older Gerber format.[5] It is the defacto standard for intelligent data exchange in EDA.[6]
File structure
When in use, ODB++ data is stored in a hierarchy of files and file folders. However, for transmission is convenient to use common operating system commands that create a single, compressed file that preserves the hierarchy information. For example, on Unix tar and gzip commands can be used.[1] In ODB++(X), the database is contained in a single XML file by default.[4]
Criticism and controversy
ODB++ is a proprietary format controlled by Valor and now Mentor. Mentor's fiduciary responsibility to its shareholders (and hence to compete against other vendors) is somewhat in conflict with its claim that it "...openly supports inclusion of ODB++ and updates for other EDA tool vendors. You are not required to use Mentor tools to take advantage of the benefits of ODB++.".[7] Under pressure from the industry, the process of enhancing ODB++ and in particular ODB++(X) has become somewhat more open in recent years.[1]
ODB++ is not only used by Mentor but also by a other software used in the electronics manufacturing industry[1]
See also
- Gerber format (RS-274X from Ucamco): Despite its age and limitations, presently the most popular way of exchanging PCB data.[5]
- Electronic Design Interchange Format, EDIF
- GenCAM: IPC-2511A Generic Requirements for Implementation of Product Manufacturing Description Data and Transfer Methodology, 2000.
- GenCAM: IPC-2511B Generic Requirements for Implementation of Product Manufacturing Description Data and Transfer XML Schema Methodology, 2002.
- Offspring: IPC-2581 Generic Requirements for Printed Board Assembly Products Manufacturing Description Data and Transfer Methodology, 2004.
- STEP AP210: ISO 10303-210, Electronic assembly interconnect and packaging design, first edition 2001, second edition 2008 (to be published)
References
- ^ a b c d e "ODB++ Overview". Artwork.com. Artwork Conversion Software Inc. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
- ^ "Mentor Graphics Acquires Valor Computerized Systems, Ltd". Mentor.com. Mentor Graphics. 18 March 2010. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
- ^ "IPC Subcommittee 2-16 Product Data Description (Laminar View)". ipc.org. IPC. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
- ^ a b "Translators and preprocessors for ODB++". Artwork.com. Artwork Conversion Software Inc. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
- ^ a b "ODB++" (PDF). Mentor.com. Streamline Circuits. August 2011. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
Why Stay Stuck in the Past With Low Intelligence Gerber Files?
- ^ "ODB++ Interface". Downstreamtech.com. DownStream Technologies. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
- ^ "ODB++ Intelligent data exchange between design and manufacturing" (PDF). Mentor.com. Mentor Graphics. August 2011. Retrieved 25 September 2011.
