Exporting Designs

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Gerber Files

Export Gerber files for PCB fabrication:

• Use File → Export → Gerbers or ask Trace: “Export Gerbers for manufacturing”
• Select layers to export (copper, mask, silkscreen, edge cuts)
• Choose format settings (RS-274X is standard)

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Where Files Are Saved

Export files are saved to a gerbers/ or output/ directory within your project folder. Configure the output path in project settings.

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Bill of Materials

Export a BOM for component ordering:

• CSV — Import into spreadsheets or distributor order tools
• Excel — Formatted spreadsheet with pricing columns
• HTML — Interactive BOM viewable in a browser

Include fields like reference, value, footprint, manufacturer, and distributor part numbers.

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Pick and Place

Generate pick-and-place files for automated assembly:

• Component positions (X, Y coordinates)
• Rotation angles
• Side designation (top/bottom)
• Reference designators

Required by assembly houses like JLCPCB and PCBWay.

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3D Models

Export your board design in 3D:

• STEP — For mechanical CAD integration (Fusion 360, SolidWorks)
• VRML — For visualization and rendering

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PDF Documentation

Generate PDF outputs including:

• Schematic prints
• Board layout prints
• Fabrication drawings
• Assembly drawings

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Manufacturer Presets

Trace includes pre-configured export settings for popular manufacturers:

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One-Click Manufacturing

For PCBWay and Pikkolo Assembly, you can skip uploading files to the fab’s website entirely — Trace submits orders through partner APIs directly from the editor:

• Autofills order parameters from your .trace_pcb file
• Loads manufacturer-specific DRC presets so violations are caught before you submit
• Handles quoting, freight calculation, payment, and live fabrication progress tracking
• Supports both fabrication and turnkey assembly (BOM + PnP upload for assembly)

See the One-Click Manufacturing guide for the full walkthrough. Available on paid plans.

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Design Rule Export

Export your design rules for documentation or sharing with manufacturers. Includes trace widths, clearances, via sizes, and layer stackup information.