When submitting PCB designs for manufacturing, proper file organization is essential. Gerber files are the industry standard format for describing the printed circuit board images: copper layers, solder mask, silkscreen, and more. Using a consistent and standardized naming convention helps prevent confusion and ensures that your PCB is manufactured exactly as intended.
Why Gerber File Naming Matters
Manufacturers receive hundreds of PCB designs daily, and a clear, consistent naming pattern helps them quickly identify each layer and process your order efficiently. Incorrect or ambiguous file names can lead to production delays, manufacturing errors, or the need for clarification before production can begin.
The naming convention shown below follows industry best practices and is widely recognized by PCB manufacturers worldwide. By adhering to this standard, you minimize the risk of miscommunication and ensure that each layer is correctly identified during the manufacturing process.
Standard Gerber File Naming Pattern
The following table shows the recommended naming convention for Gerber files. Replace "boardname" with your actual PCB project name:
| Layer | Filename |
|---|---|
| Top Paste | boardname.GTP |
| Top Silkscreen | boardname.GTO |
| Top Soldermask | boardname.GTS |
| Top Copper Layer | boardname.GTL |
| Inner Layer (only on multilayer) | boardname.G1 |
| Inner Layer (only on multilayer) | boardname.G2 |
| Bottom Copper Layer | boardname.GBL |
| Bottom Soldermask | boardname.GBS |
| Bottom Silkscreen | boardname.GBO |
| Bottom Paste | boardname.GBP |
| Outline | boardname.GM1 |
| Slot Holes | boardname.GML |
| Drill File | boardname.DRL |
Understanding the File Extensions
The file extensions follow a logical pattern:
- GT prefix indicates Top layers (e.g., GTL = Top copper Layer, GTO = Top silkscreen Overlay)
- GB prefix indicates Bottom layers (e.g., GBL = Bottom copper Layer, GBS = Bottom Soldermask)
- G1, G2, G3, etc. are used for inner copper layers on multilayer boards
- GM files contain mechanical information such as board outline and dimensions
- DRL files contain drilling information for through-holes and vias
Additional Recommendations
When preparing your Gerber files for manufacturing:
- Use consistent naming: Stick to the same naming pattern across all your projects
- Include all necessary files: Don't forget drill files, board outline, and both top and bottom soldermask layers
- ZIP your files: Package all Gerber files together in a single ZIP archive for easy upload
- Check your exports: Verify that all layers have been exported correctly before submission
- For multilayer boards: Number inner layers sequentially (G1, G2, G3, etc.) from top to bottom
Following these naming conventions will streamline your PCB manufacturing process and help ensure that your boards are produced correctly the first time.