DXF (Drawing Interchange Format, or Drawing Exchange Format) is a CAD data file format for enabling data interoperability between CAD and other programs. CAD DXF files are commonly used in PCB design and PCB manufacturing.
Creating Board Outline
DXF files are normally created using CAD program. The mechanical engineer will define a board outline, fixing hole locations, height restriction areas, connector positions for example. All this information can be imported into PCB design program using a drawing exchange format file. Once the board design is complete you also have the ability to export data in DXF format for use with the CAD program.
PCB Panelization in CAD
When the board design is finished. Designers always export Gerber files to PCB fabricators for manufacturing. For improving PCB production efficiency and PCB assembly efficiency. Fabricators and assemblers prefer PCB panel or array. Some CAM engineers would like to panelize in CAM program, but the others would like to do in CAD program.
CAD Software can support both ASCII and binary forms of DXF. ASCII versions can be read with any text editor. DXF coordinates are always without dimensions so that the reader or user needs to know the drawing unit or has to extract it from the textual comments in the sheets.