CAM350XL - Frequently Asked Questions

What is CAM350XL?

CAM350XL is an affordable software suite that delivers a single integrated solution providing all the tools necessary to completely post process a PCB design. This includes manufacturing analysis, output generation, PCB documentation, Release Package management and ECO automation. If you think about what makes up Microsoft Office you have a suite of applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc) that address all the needs of a typical business application. CAM350XL provides the same solution for PCB post processing: CAM350 V10 and BluePrint V2.0. These two versions have been integrated together to read/write data to the same database. They also share a similar user interface and allow the user to create a single Release Package file with all the deliverables (outputs, documentation, computer files, etc) contained in it. So it’s a natural step to now offer these two point application as a single solution.

How does CAM350XL fit into my PCB design flow?

PCB designers would basically utilize the same design process that is currently in place. However CAM350XL negates the need to post process in the host CAD system, where functionality may be lacking. Once electrical verification is completed in the host PCB CAD system, you export your design database in an “intelligent” format such as ODB++ or ASCII, and import that into CAM350XL. Now with all the design intelligence maintained, users can now proceed to post process using industry standard, accurate design to Gerber/ODB++/NC translators, patented documentation automation, multi-level analysis, and compile all the necessary output deliverables in one electronic file. Should a change occur in the host CAD system simply re-import the new intelligent design into CAM350XL. Our ECO automation tools will help identify graphical differences in the design, Gerber, or documentation.

Does this mean that DownStream will no longer be developing CAM350 “non” XL?

On the contrary. CAM350 is being rebranded as CAM350 “Classic” and is a core component of CAM350XL. CAM350 Classic will remain a key part of our future strategy. We have very aggressive development plans for CAM350 Classic to further solidify DownStream’s leadership position in PCB post processing. In addition, in between major releases of CAM350 Classic we will continue to provide defect corrections as part of your existing maintenance contact.

Will CAM350XL offer tiered configurations and how will they differ from CAM350 Classic?

Yes, CAM350XL will be offered at various price point configurations similar to CAM350 Classic but with more content. The difference between XL configurations and “Classic” configurations will be the inclusion of different options that are required by both XL components (BluePrint and CAM350 Classic). For example with CAM350XL both the Release Package Navigator and Import Gerber functions are standard in all configurations as these are native to BluePrint. Therefore XL users would not have to purchase redundant functionality. Where as in CAM350 Classic, some configurations offer these functions as optional modules. In addition, CAM350XL purchases need only purchase a single option once to enable that functionality in both the CAM and document applications. For example, if DXF is added to a CAM350XL configuration, it is enabled in both the CAM350 and BluePrint applications.

If I have CAM350 will I be automatically upgraded to CAM350XL as part of my support maintenance?

No, CAM350XL is a brand new product suite. From time to time we may elect to offer “Cross Grade” promotions to migrate CAM350 Classic users to CAM350XL. We will be continuing to enhance CAM350 “Classic” as it is part of CAM350XL. Maintenance subscribers will continue to receive these enhancements as part of the CAM350 Classic maintenance agreement.

Can I add CAM350XL capability to my existing CAM350 license?

You can add more capabilities to your CAM350 Classic configuration at any time, including documentation functionality.  We will be happy to custom configure a solution for your existing CAM350 Classic at very affordable price.  Contact Sales for specific details to meet your exact requirements.

What are the future plans for CAM350XL?

Since analysis, documentation, and output generation are key parts of PCB design post processing and are now integrated into a single solution. DownStream is well positioned to deliver new functions that push CAM350XL far beyond a typical CAM processing solution. More details will be provided as we get ready to deliver these new functions to the market.

When will CAM350XL be available?

CAM350XL is available for immediate purchase and download.