CAD & Gerber Files for PCB Manufacturing in China
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Chinese PCB fabs accept design data as RS-274X (extended Gerber) plus Excellon drill files, with ODB++ and IPC-2581 as more complete single-file alternatives that carry netlist and stackup data. Sending plain RS-274X without a clear stackup and impedance note is the most common reason a board comes back with the wrong copper weight or layer order. A clean fab package — Gerbers, drill, stackup, fab notes — cuts engineering query (EQ) round-trips that otherwise add days to lead time.
Preparing CAD output for a Chinese fab means exporting unambiguous data: ODB++ or IPC-2581 when possible, or RS-274X with explicit drill files and a written stackup. The pitfall is letting the fab 'assume' impedance or finished thickness — we specify board parameters in writing so nothing is interpreted locally.
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FAQ
Should I send Gerber or ODB++ to a Chinese PCB factory?
ODB++ or IPC-2581 is preferred because it bundles copper, drill, netlist, and stackup in one file, reducing errors. RS-274X Gerber plus Excellon still works but needs separate fab notes.
What fab notes prevent the most PCB errors?
Layer stackup with copper weights, finished board thickness, surface finish (ENIG/HASL), impedance-controlled traces, and minimum trace/space. These remove the guesswork that causes wrong-build remakes.
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