What is ODB++?
Open Database
ODB++ is an intelligent PCB data format that packages everything needed to manufacture and assemble a board — copper and mask layers, drill data, netlist, stack-up, components and attributes — into a single structured file. It is an alternative to sending separate Gerber, drill and netlist files, and is supported by most ECAD and CAM tools.
ODB++ explained
ODB++ was originally developed by Valor in the 1990s; the name stands for Open Database, with "++" indicating its extended content. It is now owned by Siemens as part of its electronics manufacturing software, and the specification is freely available to tool vendors.
Where a Gerber file set describes each layer as a separate image, ODB++ stores the design as a structured database. A single job, usually delivered as a compressed archive, contains a hierarchy of folders and files: one entry per layer, the drill and routing data, the board outline, the layer order and materials, the netlist and, for assembly, the component list with positions, rotations and package outlines.
Because the layers and attributes are linked, the manufacturer's CAM software can tell which features are pads, traces or planes, which holes are plated and which nets each feature belongs to. This reduces the interpretation needed when preparing the job, helps catch errors, and supports both DFM checks and assembly programming.
Most major ECAD tools can export ODB++, including Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro and OrCAD, Siemens Xpedition and PADS, and recent versions of KiCad. Most manufacturers' CAM systems can import it.
ODB++ is one of three widely used formats. Gerber X2 adds attributes to the traditional Gerber format but still uses separate files per layer. IPC-2581 is an open, XML-based standard developed through IPC with a similar all-in-one aim. Manufacturers usually accept more than one format, so the choice often depends on the design tool and the manufacturer's preference.
When ODB++ matters
ODB++ matters most for complex boards, where a missing or mismatched file in a Gerber set can cause queries or errors. Multilayer designs, HDI boards with several drill spans, and assemblies with many components benefit from having layer order, drill structure and component data in one package.
It also helps assembly. The component data inside ODB++ can replace a separate pick-and-place file, and the netlist supports electrical test programming.
It matters less for simple boards, where a clean Gerber X2 set with an Excellon drill file and a fabrication drawing is perfectly adequate. Some tools and smaller manufacturers handle Gerber more consistently than ODB++. Whichever format is used, the data should be exported from the final design revision, and a fabrication drawing should still state requirements that the format does not carry, such as IPC class, tolerances and special processes.
ODB++ vs Gerber X2 vs IPC-2581
All three are accepted widely; Gerber remains the most universal. Gerber X2 adds attributes that identify pads, traces and outlines, but still needs separate drill, netlist and component files. ODB++ and IPC-2581 package that data together. Whichever format you use, export everything from the same design revision. Ask which format the manufacturer prefers.
ODB++ in your quote request
In your quote request, include either an ODB++ archive or a complete Gerber set with drill files, together with a fabrication drawing that states the stack-up, finished thickness, material, surface finish, IPC class and tolerances. For assembly, add the BOM, and a pick-and-place file if your ODB++ export does not contain component data. Make sure all files come from the same design revision. Our free DFM check works from the data you send.
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PCB manufacturing →FAQ about ODB++
What does ODB++ stand for?
ODB++ stands for Open Database, with the two plus signs indicating extended content beyond the original format. It was created by Valor in the 1990s as a way to transfer complete PCB manufacturing data in one structured package. Valor was later acquired by Mentor Graphics, which is now part of Siemens, and the format is maintained by Siemens today.
How can I open ODB++ files?
ODB++ files can be opened in most PCB CAM tools and many ECAD tools that support import, as well as in dedicated viewers. Siemens provides a free ODB++ viewer, and several CAM and Gerber viewers also read the format. The data is usually delivered as a compressed archive, such as a .tgz or .zip file, which the viewer opens directly.
Is ODB++ better than Gerber?
Neither is better for every job. ODB++ carries layers, drill data, netlist, stack-up and components in one package, which reduces the risk of missing or mismatched files on complex boards. Gerber, especially Gerber X2, is more universal and works well for simpler boards. Many manufacturers accept both, so use the format your design tool exports most reliably.
Related terms
- Gerber file
A Gerber file is the industry-standard format that describes each layer of a PCB — copper, solder mask, silkscreen, and drill data — as 2D vector geometry. A complete Gerber package is the minimum a fabricator needs to quote and build your board.
- DFM
DFM (Design for Manufacturability) is a structured review of your PCB design against a fabricator's process limits — trace widths, drill sizes, annular rings, solder mask clearances, and stack-up choices — to catch issues before tooling starts. A good DFM review prevents rework, scrap, and missed delivery dates.
- Pick-and-place file
A pick and place file (also called centroid file, CPL, or XY data) is a machine-readable list of every component's position, rotation, and board side. It is one of the three core files — alongside Gerber and BOM — needed to quote and run PCB assembly.
- Multilayer PCB
A multilayer PCB is a printed circuit board with three or more copper layers, separated by insulating dielectric and laminated together under heat and pressure. Inner layers carry signals or form solid power and ground planes, and plated vias connect the layers. Most multilayer boards use an even number of layers, such as four, six or eight.
- Stack-up
A PCB stack-up is the cross-sectional arrangement of copper layers, cores and prepreg that make up a multilayer board. It defines the layer order, dielectric thicknesses, copper weights and material properties. The stack-up is critical for controlled impedance, signal integrity, EMC performance and manufacturability, and it should be agreed with the manufacturer before layout is finalised.