Getting Started with FAB 3000
1. Asking Questions and Getting Personal Assistance
The Quick Help text box, allows anyone to type in a question (or keywords). FAB 3000 will search 1000's of support links to quickly find answers. This is a resource that has been part of our software since day one, but not everyone is aware of this feature.
Shortcut: Press Alt+Q to quickly navigate to the Quick help box, and type your keywords.
View the tutorial movie below showing how easy and fast it is to find answers to your questions:
Need more? Visit the Numerical Innovations - Help Center for hundreds of related topics and helpful articles. Get in contact with our engineering team: Open a Support Ticket
View or Download the entire FAB 3000 Help Guide (457+ pages).
2. Using AutoLoad to quickly Import Gerber, Drill
AutoLoad Wizard will automatically import all Gerber, Excellon Drill/Rout, and Netlist files found within a selected folder. This makes importing multiple files a snap, and eliminates the time needed to load each file separately.
To use AutoLoad in 3 steps:
- (1) Go to menu: File | Import | AutoLoad...
- (2) Select the folder where your gerbers and drills are located.
- (3) Click Next, and FAB 3000 will scan all files in the directory. All detected gerbers, aperture lists and drills will be displayed. If you approve, go ahead and click next. All files will be imported.
3. ODB++ and IPC-2581 Import
FAB 3000 can import ODB++ archives and IPC-2581 files. To import an ODB++ archive, go to menu: File | Import | ODB++ Archive...
To import IPC-2581 files, go to menu: File | Import | IPC-2581...
4. Perform Editing, and other common fabrication commands.
FAB 3000 includes a complete set of editing tools for modifying your PCB data. Common tasks include adding/removing copper, editing drill data, adjusting soldermask, and more.
5. Run DFM Checks and Netlist Comparisons
FAB 3000 includes advanced DFM (Design for Manufacturing) checks to identify potential manufacturing issues before production. You can also compare netlists to verify design integrity.
6. Perform Panelization
FAB 3000 includes powerful panelization tools for creating production panels. You can create step and repeat arrays, add fiducials, tooling holes, and more.
7. Generate XY Centroid data
FAB 3000 can generate XY Centroid (Pick and Place) data for your PCB assemblies. This is essential for automated SMT assembly.
8. Using SMT Stencil Design Tools
FAB 3000 includes specialized tools for designing SMT stencils. You can modify paste apertures, add home plates, and optimize your stencil designs for better solder paste deposition.
9. Automation - Using the MATRIX file.
FAB 3000 supports automation through the MATRIX file system. This allows you to automate repetitive tasks and integrate FAB 3000 into your production workflow.
Learn more about Matrix File Description.
10. Numerical Cloud (Monthly Subscription $75/mo)
Numerical Cloud is a monthly subscription that provides access to FAB 3000 without a large upfront investment. Learn more about Numerical Cloud.
11. Compare Jobs (i.e different PCB Design Revisions)
FAB 3000 includes a powerful Job Compare feature that allows you to compare different PCB design revisions. This is essential for tracking changes between design iterations.
Need Additional Help?
Visit our Help Center or Open a Support Ticket for personalized assistance.