Not ODB++ but you can import IPC2581 which may be a better method. You can also look at CAM350 (Downstream Tech) which will import ODB++, you can then export a PADS Ascii file which Allegro will import.

thank u, steve.

i will look into this route.

Yes, you need ODB++ inside installation to import ODB++ files. Please see below article,

Article (11656580) Title: What do I need to export ODB++ and how do I download ODB++ Inside for Cadence Allegro and ODB++ Viewer?
URL: https://support.cadence.com/apex/ArticleAttachmentPortal?id=a1Od0000000nbsIEAQ

add env variable as shown below,

The latest 23.1 hotfix includes a new command to import ODB++ data, below is the top few lines from it's documentation:

thank u for ur response, david.

unfortunately i still have 17.4 so i would have to wait for my company to upgrade it to 23.1.

 it is good information though, thank u.