DESIGNSPARK PCB
What Is DesignSpark?
DesignSpark PCB is a free PCB design software developed by RS Group. It’s widely used by hobbyists, startups, and professionals for creating schematics and PCB layouts. It offers:
Schematic capture
PCB layout tools
Component libraries
3D visualization
Gerber file export for manufacturing
How to Export Gerber Files from DesignSpark (Extended Gerber Format)
Here’s a step-by-step guide to exporting RS-274X (Extended Gerber) files from DesignSpark:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Complete Your PCB Layout
Ensure all components are placed and routed.
Run a Design Rule Check (DRC) to catch any layout issues.
Go to Output Menu
Click “Output” → “Manufacturing Plots”.
Select Layers to Export
Choose the layers you want to generate:
Top Copper
Bottom Copper
Solder Mask (Top/Bottom)
Silkscreen (Top/Bottom)
Board Outline
Drill Drawing
Choose Gerber Format
Select RS-274X (Extended Gerber) — this includes aperture definitions in the file, which simplifies manufacturing.
Set Output Directory
Choose a folder where all files will be saved.
DesignSpark will generate .gtl, .gbl, .gts, .gbs, .gto, .gbo, .gm1, and .drl files.
Generate Drill Files
Use the “NC Drill” option to create Excellon drill files (.drl).
These files specify hole sizes and locations.
Verify with a Gerber Viewer
Use a free viewer like Gerbv or [KiCAD Gerber Viewer] to inspect the files before sending them to a manufacturer.
Tips to Make Life Easier for PCB Manufacturers
Best Practices
Include a README or fabrication notes:
Specify board thickness, copper weight, finish (e.g., HASL, ENIG), and any special instructions.
Use consistent file naming:
Manufacturers appreciate clear names like Quartz_TopCopper.gtl, Quartz_Drill.drl, etc.
Compress into a ZIP folder:
Include all Gerber files, drill files, and notes in one ZIP archive.
Include a board outline layer:
This helps define the exact shape and dimensions of the PCB.
Avoid overlapping silkscreen and pads:
Ensure silkscreen text doesn’t interfere with soldering areas.
Use Extended Gerber (RS-274X):
This format is preferred by most modern manufacturers.
Include a pick-and-place file (if doing SMT assembly):
Helps with automated component placement.
Typical File Set for Fabrication
File Type Extension Description
Top Copper .gtl Copper traces on top layer
Bottom Copper .gbl Copper traces on bottom layer
Top Solder Mask .gts Mask layer for top
Bottom Solder Mask .gbs Mask layer for bottom
Top Silkscreen .gto Component labels on top
Bottom Silkscreen .gbo Labels on bottom
Board Outline .gm1 Mechanical layer
Drill File .drl Hole locations and sizes
What to Include in a PCB README File
Here’s a comprehensive checklist of what to include:
1. Project Information
Project name
Revision/version number
Date of submission
Designer/company contact info
2. Board Specifications
Board dimensions (length × width)
Board thickness (e.g., 1.6 mm)
Number of layers (e.g., 2-layer, 4-layer)
Copper weight (e.g., 1 oz, 2 oz)
Material type (e.g., FR4, Rogers)
3. Surface Finish
Specify the desired finish:
HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling)
ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold)
OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative)
4. Solder Mask & Silkscreen
Solder mask color (e.g., green, black, white)
Silkscreen color (e.g., white, black)
Sides: Indicate if silkscreen is on top, bottom, or both
5. Drill Information
Minimum hole size
Plated vs. non-plated holes
Via types (standard, microvia, blind/buried)
6. Tolerance Requirements
Hole size tolerance
Outline tolerance
Impedance control (if applicable)
7. Panelization Instructions (if needed)
V-scoring or tab-routing
Number of boards per panel
Fiducial marks and tooling holes
8. Special Instructions
Any non-standard features:
Controlled impedance
Edge plating
Cut-outs or slots
Carbon ink or peelable mask
9. File List
A list of all included files with descriptions:
Plain Text
Quartz_TopCopper.gtl – Top copper layer
Quartz_BottomCopper.gbl – Bottom copper layer
Quartz_SolderMaskTop.gts – Top solder mask
Quartz_Drill.drl – Drill file
Quartz_Outline.gm1 – Board outline
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10. Assembly Notes (if applicable)
Pick-and-place file format
Component orientation
Polarity markings
Moisture sensitivity level (MSL)
Tips for Creating a Good README
Keep it clear and concise — avoid jargon unless necessary.
Use bullet points or tables for readability.
Include units (mm, mils, oz) consistently.
Double-check that the README matches the actual Gerber files.
Save as .txt or .pdf — both are widely accepted.