The IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F) is designed as a bidirectional data link between:
• Mentor Graphics Board Station and Creo Elements/Direct Modeling (using the proprietary EIF format) or
• Industry-standard IDF format files from any ECAD system and Creo Elements/Direct Modeling.
Once you have selected an interface format, you can only handle files in that format until you change the format. For example, if you select EIF to translate and import a file in Mentor Graphics Board Station format, you cannot export the resulting model in IDF format or vice versa.
The interface format used in the IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F) File menu is controlled through the sdpcb_startup file. This file is found in the personality folder in your Creo Elements/Direct Modeling installation directory.
Before you start the IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F), be sure to select the applicable interface format for exchanging PCB files between Creo Elements/Direct Modeling IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F) and your EE CAD system.
IDF format
By default, the sdpcb_idf.cfg configuration file IDF is enabled in the sdpcb_startup startup file. The IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F) is set to handle IDF format files.
If your sdpcb_startup file is currently set to sdpbc_eif.cfg (for EIF format files) and you want to change to IDF format, ask your system administrator to comment out the sdpcb_eif.cfg setting and to enable (uncomment) the sdpcb_idf.cfg setting.
Mentor Graphics Board Station Format (EIF Format)
If you want to import and/or export ASCII geometry and component files in the EIF format provided for Mentor Graphics Board Station PCB assembly files, ask your system administrator to comment out the sdpbc_idf.cfg setting in the sdpcb_startup file and to enable (uncomment) the sdpcb_eif.cfg setting.
To start the IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F),
Perform the following steps to start Creo Elements/Direct Modeling IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F):
1. Click File > Modules. The Modules dialog box opens.
2. Click the Applications pane.
3. Click PCB in the Included section.
The IDF Data Adapter (PCB I/F) is a part of Creo Elements/Direct Modeling and does not require a separate license.
