Working with IDF
Best Practices: Working with IDF
October 2019 2 Product Version 17.4-2019
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The MCAD/ECAD Flow
The enhanced IDF interface, which transfers data between MCAD and ECAD, is powerful,
much like the Packager-XL interface from Cadence, used to transfer information between
Allegro Design Entry HDL and Allegro PCB Editor.
With the enhanced IDF interface, you can transfer entire mechanical assemblies. It allows bi-
directional data transfer between mechanical and electrical engineering also known as
electromechanical design.
To transfer data between ECAD and MCAD, a new flow is introduced. Key elements of this
flow are reference designators and coordinate systems of components or parts. Table 1-1
describes the primary and more traditional MCAD/ECAD flow.
Table 1-1 MCAD/ECAD Flow
Step MCAD ECAD
1. Creates a printed circuit board and its
associated assembly including mounting
holes and ECAD areas, places connectors
and other mechanically critical objects at
the assembly, and assigns reference
designators to electrical components
aligning with the electrical design.
2. Exports to an IDF 3.0 file.
3. Imports the schematic or netlist into
Allegro PCB Editor.
4. Imports the IDF file using the idf in
command, which results in the placement
of critical components with matching
reference designators.
5. Creates the stackup and places remaining
components. May also start routing.
6. Exports PCB Layout to an IDF 3.0 file,
using the idf out command.
