Lost D-Code in Your Gerber File? We Can Fix It Free

If your Gerber package is missing D-Codes or aperture information, we can help analyze, repair, and rebuild the data for manufacturing. This service is free when you place a PCB fabrication order with us.

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What Is the Problem? Common Causes How We Help Need Help? Examples FAQ What to Send

What Is the Lost D-Code Problem?

Problem overview: Gerber files are the standard manufacturing output of PCB design software. To fabricate a PCB correctly, the Gerber data must contain complete aperture information, commonly known as D-Codes. If this information is missing, the file may not be manufacturable.

Sometimes, due to incorrect export settings, outdated CAD software, or incomplete file output, a customer may send a Gerber file without valid D-Code data. This is often referred to as a lost D-Code problem.

In this condition, many PCB manufacturers cannot correctly interpret pads, traces, and shapes. The result may be CAM rejection, engineering delays, or a request for corrected manufacturing files.

Important note: Modern Extended Gerber (RS-274X) usually embeds aperture information directly in the file. Older Gerber formats such as RS-274D may require a separate aperture table, which is one common cause of missing D-Code problems.

Common Causes of Missing D-Codes in Gerber Files

  • Incorrect export settings from PCB CAD software
  • Outdated or misconfigured design tools
  • Missing aperture table in old RS-274D Gerber output
  • Incomplete file transfer or missing manufacturing data
  • Gerber package generated without full CAM verification

How We Help Repair Gerber Files

Our engineering team can analyze Gerber data that is missing apertures, D-Codes, or related shape definitions. When possible, we can rebuild the missing data and convert the file into a manufacturable format.

If you place a PCB fabrication order with us, we provide this Gerber file repair service free of charge. After repair, we can send the corrected manufacturing data back to you for confirmation before production starts.

This process helps reduce misunderstanding, avoid fabrication delays, and improve first-pass manufacturing success.

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Need Help with a Gerber File?

Please email your Gerber package to [email protected] and mention that you need help with a Gerber lost D-Code issue.
Note: The repair result depends on the completeness of the source data you provide. If key manufacturing information is missing, our engineers may need additional confirmation before production.

Visual Examples: With and Without D-Codes

Example 1A: PCB Gerber file without D-Codes, incorrect manufacturing output
Example 1A - Wrong
Gerber without D-Codes
Example 1B: PCB Gerber file with complete D-Codes
Example 1B - Correct
Gerber with D-Codes
Example 2A: PCB Gerber file missing D-Codes, cannot be correctly fabricated
Example 2A - Wrong
Gerber without D-Codes
Example 2B: PCB Gerber file with complete and valid D-Codes
Example 2B - Correct
Gerber with D-Codes
These examples show how missing D-Code information can affect image interpretation and manufacturability.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a lost D-Code problem?
    It means the Gerber file does not include complete aperture information required to interpret shapes, pads, and traces for PCB manufacturing.
  • Can you repair Gerber files with missing D-Codes?
    Yes. When the source data is sufficient, our engineers can analyze and repair the file. This service is free if you place a PCB fabrication order with us.
  • What should I send for checking?
    Please send the complete Gerber package, drill files, readme notes, and any available fabrication instructions so our engineers can verify the issue more efficiently.

What to Send for Faster Checking

Recommended files
Gerber files, NC drill files, fabrication notes, readme file, stackup notes, and any impedance or special process requirements.
Recommended information
Board quantity, board thickness, copper weight, surface finish, solder mask color, and required lead time.
Providing more complete data helps reduce engineering back-and-forth and improves quote accuracy and production efficiency.
Need a Fast Review of Your PCB Files?
Send us your Gerber package for checking, or request a PCB quote directly. If the D-Code problem can be repaired from the available source data, our engineering team will help you move the job forward more quickly.
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