Why flash symbols in padstack?

The Padstack is using a Flash Symbol named Direct on inner layers (files direct.dra and direct.fsm need to be in the library path for this to work) The Thermal Pad and Anti-Pad are relevant if the cross-section uses Negative Artwork. Since relatively few organisations use Negative Artwork, the Thermal and Anti-Pad definitions could probably be removed, unless you are in of those organisations that still use Negative Artwork.

Very true OldMouldy! Very true. Just more confusing to newbies. I can't tell you how many times I've turned those 2 off. I only use Regular Pad and Keepout. If I need to create odd-shaped pads (special chamfer pads for instance), I'll add them as "Shape Symbols" shown in the picture above. Good day.

Ok, so I'm not going crazy - this time! I thought it was odd to do it this way also.

My problem is that since I don't have the flash symbol, the gerbers won't generate. I need to go through the padstacks and fix the flash references then it will generate without error. Luckily this is a small board.

This was an inherited design, not my doing. The only time I do anything like this is with a shape symbol and never a flash.

Thanks, 

Tom

Question: Is there a way to batch-remove flash definitions in a padstack library once the decision not to use negative artwork has been made?

I'm curious. If you run 'dump_libraries' on the existing board file, will it output the flash symbols from the padstacks? I'm not sure if I've tried that in the past. Good day.