Definition

Gerber is the industry-standard file format for PCB manufacturing, defining the artwork for each layer. Named after Gerber Scientific (now Ucamco), the format uses RS-274X (extended Gerber) or the newer Gerber X2 with embedded metadata. A complete Gerber package includes files for each copper layer, solder mask, silkscreen, paste stencil, and board outline. Excellon format is used for drill files. ODB++ is an alternative single-file format containing all manufacturing data.