Accepted data formats for PCB layout data are:

Artwork

• Gerber RS-274X (Extended Gerber with embedded apertures - developed by Gerber Systems)
• DPF (Dynamic Process Format - developed by Ucamco NV)
• Gerber RS-274D (Standard Gerber with a separate aperture file - developed by Gerber Systems)
• Eagle .BRD file (CAD-data from CADsoft now Premier Farnell)

Artwork means all copper layers, soldermask and legend layers, board outline or mechanical layer, SMD paste layers,carbon layers, peel-off layers, etc.

Drilling

• Excellon (1 or 2) + appropriate tool list (ideally embedded)
• Sieb&Meyer + appropriate tool list (ideally embedded)
• Gerber format RS-274X or RS-274D (only true drill data, not a drill map)
• DPF (only true drill data, not a drill map).

Articles about PCB layout data

	Data formats: RS-274D Standard Gerber with separate aperture table
	Data formats: RS-274X Extended Gerber, includes many high level commands and controls
	Data formats: DPF Dynamic Process format - part of Ucamco's Job database structure
	Drill formats: Excellon and Sieb&Meyer Formats to drive CNC drilling and routing machines
	Input data required Data files needed for production of PCBs
	Eurocircuits preferred data formats Preferred data files for artwork and drilling
	File naming suggestions File names that let us easily recognise the function of a layer
	Cadsoft Eagle .brd to Gerber conversion guidelines Layer conversion rules - how to generate Gerber files
	Indicating slots and contours Clear indication for a correct processing in production
	X,Y coordinates - Decimal point and Zero suppression Coordinate data, the bulk of information in Gerber files
	Ten rules to provide perfect data for PCB production Based on our experience, this asks for your attention