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Step File Output and PADS Layout

Printed From: PCB Libraries Forum
Category: PCB Footprint Expert
Forum Name: Questions & Answers
Forum Description: issues and technical support
URL: https://www.PCBLibraries.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=960
Printed Date: 31 Oct 2025 at 1:21am


Topic: Step File Output and PADS Layout
Posted By: plinder
Subject: Step File Output and PADS Layout
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2013 at 5:01am

We are interested in the new 3D feature (generating step outputs).  We use PADs, and we have exported a couple of boards to 3D for use with Solid Works.  How would we cause the 3D step models of the parts to become a part of that 3D export from PADs? 

 
In general, we have found the PADs 3D export to be dificult - for example, we have had a difficult time getting holes to appear in the export.  So, I won't be surprised if PADs can not really take advantage of these step files - but I'm positive someone knows better than me!


Replies:
Posted By: Tom H
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2013 at 12:04pm
The PCB Library Expert (LE) saves component dimenions to FPX files. You can't see them (unless you open the FPX file in M/S Excel column B) but they are there.
 
The 3D STEP module auto-generates 3D STEP models from FPX file data.
 
Soon we will have FPX files for millions on component manufacturer part numbers on our new "Parts on Demand" (POD) website.
 

Posted By: ashwini.uthotakaa.com
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2014 at 10:00pm

Dear Friend.

I am using PADS Layout V9.2 (Mentor Graphics).

I want to export a PCB file in 3D format.

Can anybody suggest me the procedure to export a PCB file in 3D format, and that 3D file I have to view in 3D Viewer.

Thanks

Posted By: chrisa_pcb
Date Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 9:32am

Hi Ashwini,

I'm not familiar enough with PADS to know if it has a 3D Export function for boards. Most tools allow you to view stuff in 3D using a built-in viewer, not necessarily convert the entire board to a 3D format. Currently we work with generating 3D models for the components we calculate, we don't work with entire boards in that manner.

-Chris


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