What Are Gerber Files?
A practical introduction to Gerber files for PCB manufacturing teams.
Gerber files in PCB manufacturing
Gerber files are the standard manufacturing output used to describe how a PCB should be fabricated. They define copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, drill data, and board outline information that a PCB factory uses before any PCBA or SMT work begins.
Most PCB design tools export Gerber and drill files as a package that accompanies stackup notes, material preferences, and fabrication specifications.
What to include in a PCB data package
Core Gerber layers
A complete PCB package usually includes copper, solder mask, silkscreen, paste, and mechanical outline layers, plus drill files and a readable layer map or readme.
Handoff to PCBA
Gerber quality affects both PCB fabrication and downstream PCBA because pad geometry, mask openings, and polarity markings influence SMT stencil design and assembly yield.