Mentor Expedition Importer

Installing and Running the Importer

Altium Designer can import binary format PCB and PCB Libraries designed in Mentor Expedition®. To do so:

1. Install the Importer plugin in Altium Designer (DXP » Plug-ins and Updates, Importers and Exporters category)).
2. Run the Importer via Altium Designer's Import Wizard (File » Import Wizard).

Install the Expedition Importer module, then run Altium Designer's Import Wizard to start importing.

Notes on Using the Importer

The following notes summarize the functionality of the importer:

• In Expedition, a PCB design or library does not exist as as a single file, but rather, as a structure of interdependent folders and files. Altium Designer's importer requires the entire folder/file structure to be intact to successfully import a PCB or library.
• To import a PCB design file select the *.pcb file in the design structure's top level folder, to import a library file select the *.lmc file in the library's top level folder.
• The strategy for application of design rules is completely different between Altium Designer and Mentor Expedition. Because of this Altium Designer's PCB design import process does not translate Expedition PCB design rules. Instead, all of the Expedition rule definitions are clearly enumerated in a section of the *.log file. The designer can then examine this list and create appropriate rules in Altium Designer.
• Problems during import are detailed in the *.log file report.