Users of Ansoft's Signal Integrity Products programs need to import data from a variety of CAD tools in order to do a field analysis. Artwork has developed several tools that speed this up.

GBRUnion is a useful tool if you have to import a single layer Gerber file into Spicelink/HFSS. Not only does it convert the Gerber data into a clean DXF file, but it also "contourizes" complex gerber files reducing the number of polygons that are imported into the tool.

Netex-G is a sophisticated program that takes mulitple Gerber files, drill data and stackup information and creates a 3D model of a PCB or IC package. NETEX-G includes a direct ANF output that can be loaded into Ansoft Links. From Ansoft Links the ANF file can be exported to Ansoft's SI products.

All PCB design tools can output Gerber and Drill files as these are used to manufacture the board. NETEX-G takes these basic outputs and with user provided stackup information, extracts out each net and its associated geometry. This is then formatted into Ansoft's Neutral File format which can either be read directly by most of Ansoft's SI products or can be read into Ansoft Links which can then export formats such as SM2 and SAT.

Ansoft Links Info - To use NETEX-G with Ansoft's Signal Integrity products you will need a license for Ansoft Links (2.5) for ANF Importer. Please contact your Ansoft sales engineer to obtain this product. There is no charge for this version of Ansoft Links.

Netex-G for Ansoft - this application note explains how Gerber and drill data from a multilayer PCB is used to produce an Ansoft Neutral File in order to analyze the electrical properties of high speed differential pair transmission lines ...