Convert IGS to IDF

Understanding IGES and IDF file formats

IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification, .igs or .iges) is a widely used file format for exchanging 2D and 3D CAD data between different CAD systems. It supports wireframe, surface, and solid modeling data, making it a standard for interoperability in engineering and manufacturing.

IDF (Intermediate Data Format, typically .emn and .emp files) is a file format used for exchanging PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design data between ECAD (Electronic Computer-Aided Design) and MCAD (Mechanical Computer-Aided Design) systems. IDF files contain information about board outlines, component placement, and keep-out areas, facilitating collaboration between electrical and mechanical design teams.

Why convert IGES to IDF?

Converting IGES to IDF is often necessary when you need to transfer mechanical CAD data, such as board outlines or component models, into a PCB design workflow. This enables seamless integration between mechanical and electronic design processes, ensuring accurate board fits and component placements.

How to convert IGES to IDF

Direct conversion from IGES to IDF is not always straightforward, as these formats serve different purposes. However, some specialized ECAD/MCAD collaboration tools and plugins can facilitate this process by extracting relevant geometry from IGES files and exporting it as IDF data.

Recommended software for IGES to IDF conversion

• Siemens NX: Offers robust ECAD-MCAD collaboration tools. Use File → Export → IDF after importing your IGES file and preparing the board outline.
• Autodesk Fusion 360: Supports importing IGES files and, with the ECAD-MCAD collaboration extension, can export IDF files via File → Export → IDF.
• Altium Designer: Allows importing mechanical data (such as IGES) and exporting board outlines as IDF using File → Export → IDF.
• Mentor Graphics PADS: Supports IDF import/export and can work with IGES files for board outline extraction.

Conversion steps overview

1. Open your IGES file in your chosen MCAD software (e.g., Siemens NX or Fusion 360).
2. Extract or define the PCB board outline and relevant mechanical features.
3. Use the software's export function: File → Export → IDF (or similar) to generate the .emn and .emp files.
4. Import the resulting IDF files into your ECAD tool for further PCB design work.

Tips for successful conversion

• Ensure the IGES file contains only the necessary board outline and features to avoid clutter in the IDF export.
• Check for compatibility between your MCAD and ECAD tools regarding IDF version support.
• Validate the exported IDF files by importing them into your ECAD software and reviewing the board outline and component placements.