GBO File – What is .gbo file and how to open it?
GBO File Extension
Gerber Bottom Overlay Data File – file format by Ucamco
The Gerber Bottom Overlay (GBO) file extension, created by Ucamco, is a data file used in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs). It contains information about the bottom layer of the PCB, including the copper traces, solder mask, and silkscreen.
Definition of a GBO File
A GBO (Gerber Bottom Overlay Data File) is a data format used in the printed circuit board (PCB) industry. It is specifically designed for storing bottom overlay data for PCBs, which is crucial for aligning solder masks with other layers during the manufacturing process. GBO files are commonly used by PCB fabricators and designers to ensure precise alignment and prevent defects in the finished product.
Technical Details of a GBO File
GBO files are ASCII text files that follow a specific syntax defined by Ucamco. They contain a header section that specifies the file’s version, unit of measurement, and other metadata. The main section of the file consists of coordinates and geometry information that define the bottom overlay. This data includes the outer edge of the PCB, solder mask openings, and any other features that need to be aligned during manufacturing. The precise placement and dimensions of these elements are critical for the proper functionality and performance of the PCB.
What is a GBO File?
A GBO file is an industry-standard file format used to store bottom layer overlay data in the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design process. It contains essential information for the production of PCBs, including the layout of copper traces, solder masks, and other electrical components. GBO files are primarily used during the manufacturing phase to ensure accurate alignment and registration of multiple PCB layers.
Opening GBO Files
GBO files can be opened with various software programs specifically designed for handling PCB data. These programs include proprietary software provided by Ucamco, such as Ucamco CAM Expert and Ucamco FastCAM, as well as other third-party applications like CAM350, Altium Designer, and OrCAD. These software tools offer comprehensive editing, viewing, and analysis capabilities specifically tailored for working with Gerber and other PCB-related file formats. It is important to note that the compatibility of GBO files may vary depending on the software version and specific program used.
GBO File: Gerber Bottom Overlay Data File
A Gerber Bottom Overlay (GBO) file is a data file used in the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing process. It is a specialized file format that contains additional information about the bottom layer of a PCB. This information typically includes the placement and dimensions of components, solder masks, and other features on the bottom side of the board. GBO files are used in conjunction with Gerber files, which contain the top layer information, to provide a complete representation of the PCB design.
The GBO file format is based on the Gerber RS-274X standard, which is a widely used format for describing the geometry of PCBs. GBO files are typically created using PCB design software and can be viewed using a variety of software programs. They are often used by PCB manufacturers to verify the design and to generate fabrication instructions.