How to Export Gerber Files from OrCAD / Cadence Allegro

OrCAD and Allegro are both Cadence products that share the same PCB Editor interface — Allegro targets advanced, high-layer-count designs, while OrCAD PCB Editor is aimed at mid- to low-end boards. The Gerber export workflow is effectively identical between the two.

Unlike KiCad or Eagle, Allegro/OrCAD doesn't use a single-click CAM export. Instead, you manually configure each "film" (layer) before generating artwork — it takes a few more steps, but is straightforward once you know the sequence.

Pro Tip: After exporting, preview and validate your layers, drills, and board outline with NextPCB's Free Online Gerber Viewer before submitting your order.

Step 1: Check Your Design

Before exporting, confirm your DRC status is clean and your stackup, copper traces, and board outline are finalized.

Step 2: Open the Artwork Control Form

Go to Manufacture → Artwork. This opens the Artwork Control Form, where you'll select every layer ("film") to include in the export.

Step 3: Add the Board Outline

Right-click the TOP folder in the film list and choose Add Manual. Name the film OUTLINE, then in the Subclass Selection window, expand BOARD GEOMETRY and check DESIGN_OUTLINE. Click OK.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Layers

Repeat the same "Add Manual" process for each required film: top/bottom copper, top/bottom soldermask, top/bottom silkscreen, and any inner signal layers. Make sure each is checked in the Available films list before continuing.

Step 5: Generate the Gerber Files

With all required films selected, click Create Artwork. Allegro/OrCAD will generate the Gerber files in an artwork folder alongside your design file, along with a log file — check it for errors.

Step 6: Generate the NC Drill File

Go to Manufacture → NC → NC Drill. Click Parameters, select Enhanced Excellon format (this isn't the default, so don't skip it), and close the window. Back in the NC Drill window, click Drill to generate the file.

Step 7: Package Your Files

Zip the Gerber layer files and the NC drill file together into a single .zip archive before uploading.

FAQ

What's the difference between exporting from OrCAD vs. Allegro?

None from a Gerber standpoint — both use the same PCB Editor interface and the same Artwork Control Form workflow described above.

My board outline isn't showing up in the Gerber preview — why?

This almost always means the OUTLINE film wasn't added with the DESIGN_OUTLINE subclass in Step 3. Re-check that step.

Why does my drill file look wrong in a Gerber viewer?

Make sure you selected Enhanced Excellon format in the NC Drill Parameters — Allegro/OrCAD does not use this by default, and skipping it is the most common cause of misread drill files.