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th3drk0ne edited this page Feb 25, 2026 · 6 revisions

Gerber File Ordering Guide

This repository provides everything needed to submit and order a PCB using Gerber files. It is written for first‑time PCB buyers and assumes no prior manufacturing experience.

Two popular PCB manufacturers are covered:

  • PCBWay
  • JLCPCB

Quick Start (First‑Time Users)

If you’ve never ordered a PCB before, follow these steps:

  1. Download the Gerber ZIP file

    • This is usually named something like: 
      Gerber_Sinden-PS1-Adapter-v2-Rev-1.1_PCB_Sinden-PS1-Adapter-v2-Rev-1.1_2026-02-21.zip
    • ✅ Do not unzip the file

  2. Choose a manufacturer

    • Use PCBWay or JLCPCB
    • Both are reliable and beginner‑friendly

  3. Upload the ZIP file

    • The manufacturer will automatically detect board size and layers

  4. Leave settings at default

    • Default options work for most boards

  5. Check the Gerber preview

    • Make sure the board outline, holes, and text look correct

  6. Place the order

    • Select quantity
    • Choose shipping
    • Complete payment

That’s it — your PCB will be manufactured and shipped to you.

What Is a Gerber File?

A Gerber file is the industry‑standard format used by PCB manufacturers. A Gerber ZIP file contains:

  • Copper layers
  • Solder mask
  • Silkscreen
  • Drill files
  • Board outline

⚠️ Always upload the ZIP file, not individual Gerber files.

Recommended PCB Defaults (Safe Choices)

These settings work for most hobby and open‑source boards:

Setting Recommended Value
Layers 2
Thickness PS2 Hat 1.6mm / PS1 Adapter 1mm /PS2 PiZero2W Hat 1.2mm
Material FR‑4
Copper Weight 1 oz
Surface Finish HASL (Lead‑Free) or ENIG
Solder Mask Any color
Silkscreen White

Ordering from PCBWay

Step 1: Open PCBWay

Go to: https://www.pcbway.com Create an account or log in.

Step 2: Upload Gerber File

  1. Click PCB Instant Quote
  2. Upload your Gerber ZIP file
  3. Wait for processing to complete

PCBWay will automatically:

  • Detect board dimensions
  • Detect layer count
  • Generate a preview

Step 3: Review PCB Options

Use these settings unless you know otherwise:

  • Layers: 2
  • Thickness: PS2 Hat 1.6 mm / PS1 adapter 1 mm / PS2 PiZero2W Hat 1.2 mm
  • Copper: 1 oz
  • Surface Finish: HASL (Lead‑Free)
  • Solder Mask: Your choice
  • Silkscreen: White

Leave advanced options unchanged.

Step 4: Gerber Preview Check (Important)

Before ordering:

  • Confirm the board outline is correct
  • Verify holes and pads are present
  • Ensure text is readable and not mirrored

If something looks wrong, do not continue — fix the Gerbers first.

Step 5: Quantity & Checkout

  1. Select quantity (5 or 10 is typical)
  2. Add to cart
  3. Choose shipping method
  4. Complete payment

PCBWay may contact you if anything needs clarification.

Ordering from JLCPCB

Step 1: Open JLCPCB

Go to: https://jlcpcb.com Create an account or log in.

Step 2: Upload Gerber File

  1. Click Quote Now
  2. Upload the Gerber ZIP file

JLCPCB will automatically detect:

  • Board size
  • Layer count
  • Drill data

Step 3: PCB Settings

Recommended options:

  • Layers: 2
  • Thickness: PS2 Hat 1.6 mm / PS1 adapter 1 mm / PS2 PiZero2W Hat 1.2 mm
  • Material: FR‑4
  • Copper Weight: 1 oz
  • Surface Finish: HASL (Lead‑Free)
  • Solder Mask: Any
  • Silkscreen: White

✅ JLCPCB defaults are very good — avoid changing advanced settings.

Step 4: Preview the Board

Use the built‑in Gerber viewer to verify:

  • Board shape
  • Hole placement
  • Component labels

This step prevents nearly all ordering mistakes.

Step 5: Checkout

  1. Choose quantity
  2. Add to cart
  3. Select shipping
  4. Pay

Production usually begins automatically after submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Uploading individual Gerber files instead of a ZIP
❌ Skipping the Gerber preview
❌ Choosing the wrong number of layers
❌ Mirrored or upside‑down silkscreen
❌ Changing advanced options without knowing why

Frequently Asked Questions

How many boards should I order?

Most manufacturers offer 5 boards minimum. Ordering more is usually cheaper per board.

Which manufacturer should I choose?

  • PCBWay: Excellent customer review process and photos
  • JLCPCB: Very fast and often cheaper for small boards

Can I order assembled boards (PCBA)?

Yes, both services support assembly, but it requires:

  • BOM file
  • Pick‑and‑place file
    This guide covers PCB fabrication only.

Tips for Sharing This Project

If others will order this PCB:

  • Include this README
  • Provide the Gerber ZIP clearly labeled
  • Mention tested manufacturer and settings

License / Usage

This guide may be freely reused or modified for personal, educational, or open‑source hardware projects.

Clone this wiki locally