Mentor Graphics Pads Version History |link| -
Overview
PADS started as a low-cost, PC-based PCB design tool in the 1980s, competing with high-end Unix workstations. Over 40+ years, it evolved from a simple layout tool into a scalable suite (PADS Professional, PADS Standard, PADS Standard Plus) under Mentor Graphics (now Siemens EDA). Its version history reflects the shift from DOS to Windows, the integration of simulation, and the move toward cloud/collaboration.
PADS 9.x Series (2008–2015)
Mentor shifted to a "dot" release format (9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5). This was the most stable era of the software. mentor graphics pads version history
- PADS 9.0 (2008): Introduced DXDesigner as the primary schematic tool (replacing PowerLogic). This was controversial. DXDesigner was powerful but had a steep learning curve compared to the classic PowerLogic.
- PADS 9.3 (2010): Added 3D PCB Viewer. It wasn't full MCAD integration yet, but you could rotate your board and see component collisions.
- PADS 9.4 (2011): ODB++ and IPC-2581 output. Finally, standardized fabrication output.
- PADS 9.5 (2012): The "legacy king." Many companies still run PADS 9.5 today because it was the last version before the UI overhaul.
PADS-Windows (v1.0–v3.x)
- Mid-1990s: Transition to Windows 3.1/95.
- Key additions:
- GUI with toolbars (no longer pure keyboard).
- Gerber and Excellon NC drill output.
- Basic DRC (Design Rule Checking).
- Library management with .pd9 format.
The Evolution of PADS: A Complete Version History
For over three decades, PADS (Personal Automated Design Systems) has been one of the most popular PCB design tool suites for layout engineers, small-to-medium businesses, and educational institutions. Originally developed by Mentor Graphics (now part of Siemens EDA since 2017), PADS has evolved from a DOS-based schematic capture tool into a powerful, constraint-driven layout environment. Overview PADS started as a low-cost, PC-based PCB
Below is a comprehensive version history, highlighting major releases, architectural shifts, and feature milestones. PADS 9
PADS-PCB (DOS)
- First release: ~1985
- Key features:
- Command-line interface with menu-driven commands.
- Grid-based manual routing.
- Limited to 2 layers in entry versions.
- Database measured in kilobyte netlists.
- PADS-2000: Higher-end DOS version with more layers and auto-router.
Version 9.0 – 9.5: The Modern Toolset
This period solidified PADS as the dominant mid-market tool.
- PADS 9.0 (2008): Introduced significant improvements in the Router, specifically "Sketch Routing," which allowed designers to "draw" routes interactively, blending manual control with algorithmic cleanup.
- PADS 9.3 – 9.5: Focused heavily on enterprise integration. Features were added to interface with Mentor’s library management systems and supply chain tools. The library architecture shifted from proprietary binary formats to more accessible ASCII and database-driven formats.