Hi,
Simply put, what I am trying to do is to import a DXF file of a PCB layer (which was converted from a gerber file) into Solidworks and make the signal traces 3D. It seems simple enough but I am having trouble with the Extrude process. Has anyone out there done this? Are then some techniques that I do not know about?
Thank You Tom tom_cip snipped-for-privacy@hotmail.com
I've tried/done it several times. the problem I had was that when I tried to extrude I got errors about .. I think it was shared corners?
anyhow, last time I did it, while I was opening the dxf to a part, it offers to choose the distance between points for solidworks to consider joined. I chose 0.1", and all of a sudden it extruded fine.
in my circuit software (Orcad layout as it were), I only leave onscreen the layer that has actual circles for the holes, and I temporariry create a board outline in that layer. so when I extrude, I SW has an outline to use, and I get a board with holes.
If you also want your silkscreen to show, you'd have to bring it in seperately (with an outline) and mate it, otherwise the component outlines would be cut out of the board.
BTW, when I did this last, my xy dimensions were perfect, but all my hole diameters were 1/2 what they should be?? anybody hit this?
helen
Helen,
Thank you for the reply. I will try your suggestions after the Christmas crazyness is over, in the next few days.
Tom tom_cip snipped-for-privacy@hotmail.com
Tom,
Are you importing component or track information? CircuitWorks
Stan
Helen,
It sounds like you should try CircuitWorks
It will turn your PCB board outline, components and drilled holes into a SolidWorks 3D assembly.
Regards,
Stan
I heard of that (either read it in help or heard at the course) but when I checked Orcad, it didn't offer to create an idf file.
helen
Stan wrote:
corners?
temporariry
I don't have that option. but just tried it using the to ProE option, which made files solidworks opened... however, it didn't do any of the holes.... thanks for pointing me in the direction! this is a lot easier than what I used to do, asuming I can get the holes to show
helen
snipped-for-privacy@megger.com wrote:
component
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