ECAD Import Options

File > Import > Import CAD files

SimLab supports import of Electronics CAD files generally called as ECAD files.

Following ECAD files are supported in SimLab.

Various import options in ECAD are explained below.

Import as

ECAD models can be imported as

Solid : ECAD Design data is imported as solid bodies.
Sheet : ECAD Design data is imported as sheet bodies.
Hybrid : Signal layers are imported as sheet bodies, dielectrics are imported as solid bodies, and vias are imported as wire bodies.

Options

Create dielectric overlapping traces and vias:
On enabling this toggle, dielectric layer for each conducting layer will be created using the board outline i.e., the dielectric layer will overlap the conducting layer. On disabling this toggle, dielectric layer will be created only on the region where there is no conducting layer. This option is supported only for Pollex reader.
Create vias as cylinders
On enabling this toggle, vias will be created as cylinders even if designed as cylinders or hollow cylinders. Disabling this toggle will make sure vias are imported as designed in the ECAD file. This option is supported only for Pollex reader.
Create groups for net
On enabling this toggle, each net will be created as a face group that can be viewed in the group browser.
Create connected PCB assembly
On enabling this toggle, matching tessellations will be created across the bodies that are overlapping. If user requires to take ECAD model from SimLab to SimSolid using File > Extensions > SimSolid, then this option must be used for creating Precise connection in SimSolid.

PCB step

PCB step in the ECAD files are read and populated. User can select the PCB step that needs to be imported.

Layers:

All layers:
All the layers in the ECAD file except the solder mask and silk screen will be imported.
- Import solder mask:
  On enabling this toggle, solder mask layer will also be imported.
- Import solder paste:
  On enabling this toggle, solder paste layer will also be imported.
Board:
Users can import the board outline alone by selecting this option.
- Compute and export the layer data:
  On enabling this toggle, a *.csv file containing the metal content details will be created on the model directory. It can be imported into the layer definition dialog for analysis.
- Include solder mask:
  On enabling this toggle, Solder mask data will be imported along with the board outline.

Materials:

This option enables the selection of material information for the conductor, dielectric, and components of an ECAD design.