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I typically draw rout tool paths by hand, but I though I would give Altium's built-in router a try. The command I am talking about is Rout->Auto-Rout PCB Border within the CAM document mode.

The tool properly finds the board outline, but the resulting rout path (when I export Gerbers) is right on top of the board outline - not butting up to the board edge like I am used to seeing when I rout it manually.

Am I missing a setting or maybe just interpreting the rout path Gerber wrong?

I tried some different settings for the rout tool in Tables->NC Tools->Tool Compensation but it isn't changing what I get.

Does anyone who has used this feature have some advice about what is happening?

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Just a thought - do you know if the Auto-Rout feature checks the DRC rules before proceeding? Maybe something related to a clearance rule isn't enabled. Also, your post made me open up Camtastic and explore - I've never used it for more than visual examination of Gerbers. Could you explain how come the auto-rout tool is greyed out for me - I must be opening the Gerber incorrectly. \$\endgroup\$
    – dext0rb
    Commented Apr 26, 2012 at 23:42
  • \$\begingroup\$ Yes, Altium auto-router uses the DRC rules to determine how it should route (e.g. trace/space width, via sizes etc) (EDIT: Oops I thought OP mis-spelled route, didn't realize he meant rout as in cutting) \$\endgroup\$
    – ajs410
    Commented Apr 26, 2012 at 23:51
  • \$\begingroup\$ I think this may have something to do with it: 173.160.155.213/database/onlinesupport/functions/… Still unclear though. I need to find out if my board house is going to know what to do with this... \$\endgroup\$
    – Mark
    Commented Apr 27, 2012 at 1:26

1 Answer 1

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Most fabs cut to the centerline of lines in the outline layer, ignoring the line width. If you are unsure, you can ask your fab to verify this, and put it in the README you send them with the files.

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    \$\begingroup\$ For the Rout tool, you'll need to be in NC Editor mode: View->NC Editor. This will make the Rout menu active. \$\endgroup\$
    – Mark
    Commented Apr 27, 2012 at 0:14

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