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Import dxf to pcb (I know, old stuff but need help)

pitbull107

 I am using V16.0.  I have a dxf of an overlay for a component keepout.  I am having nothing but trouble with the scaling, but that's something I can work out eventually.

What I am having a problem with is when I have the pcb open to accept the import, the import comes in (not to the correct scale) and all layers are turned on,but only the imported dxf is present. Where is the pcb?  As I said ALL layers are tuurned on.

 

I don't get it......

  • lcanx2
    Check the box for “Incremental addition”.  You will then get the DXF added to your PCB.

    I have used the Allegro command “Create Detail” in the past to scale DXF results.

    Bill
  • mcatramb91

    In the DXF Form you will need to check the "Incremental addition" option so it is added/appended to open design.  If you don't enable this option than it is kind of dangerous because the database name will remain the same even though it only contains the DXF imported data and a quick save will overwrite the existing design. (good reason to enable versioning in your User Preferences)

    I personally import the database into a blank design first and cut/paste what I need into the main design using a clipboard (File > Export > Sub-Drawing & File > Import > Sub-Drawing).  Just remember any new subclasses that you create as part of the DFX Import process will need to be manaully created in the main design for the import of the Sub-Drawing to work.

    Loading the DXF file into a blank design allows me to work out any of scaling issues and clean-up the data before importing into the main design.  The scaling issues can normally be resolved by adjusting the DXF units in the DXF form.

    Hope this help,
    Mike Catrambone
    Plexus Engineering Solutions

  • pitbull107

     Thanks!  I knew there was something I forgot.....incremental (DUH!)

  • pitbull107

     OK, got that to work, now the scaling.... do I set the new area to the same area setting as the pcb?  Using the cut paste version.......

    Also, inches?  or mils?

     

  • mcatramb91

    What I have done in the past was to create a new database in the same units as the DXF File and set the DXF IN form to the same units as well.  You can using the Sub-Drawing method in and out of databases with different units and it will do the conversion for you.   I have also used an IPF file (File > Export > IPF & File > Import > IPF) to get the data I need into the main design which would give you the ability to scale and retarget the import to a particular subclass but certain elements, namely shapes, would get exploded in the process.

    Hope this helps,
    Mike Catrambone
    Plexus Engineering Solutions

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