ODP++ questions

[randychase]

What is the best/easiest way to generate ODP++ data for your fabricator?

Thanks!

[Tom]

Randy,

We use CAM350 to produce ODB++ on all of our designs. In the past week we have sent ODB++ data to Dynamic Details, TYCO and Hallmark Circuits. They all love it and only have praise for it. They tell us that it shaves 4 - 5 hours off their CAM processes and gives them the ability to modify data (like solder mask over sizing) much easier. Plus, there is absolutely no need or requirement for an IPC-356 netlist because ODB++ is totally intelligent data. Manufacturers start running DRC checks within minutes of loading the ODB++ data.

We also have a free "Valor Viewer" that imports ODB++ data for engineers to preview. They really like it, because it's so easy to use. ODB++ data is a single file with everything in it.

[randychase]

I understand that Flextronics can take a PowerPCB ASCII file and convert it to ODP++. I wonder how.

Tom, is there some kind of document that tells us how to use CAM-350 to output ODP++? Is the output to ODP an option (like DXF) or part of CAM-350 standard?

Thanks.

[Tom]

The CAM350 ODB++ option is $3,000. We think that is a bargain for what we get.

Flextronics has signed agreements with Valor and it's obvious that they have access to the software code. I think that ODB means "Open Data Base" which would mean that anyone could obtain access to the software code with Valor's permission. If you know the ASCII code description for both PowerPCB and ODB++ creating a program to bi-directionally convert would become easy.

Does Flextronics sell their PowerPCB to ODB++ converter?