Resources

  • Data Formats
    • Binary Patterns: The PhotonSteer™ software package uses the Caltech Intermediate Form (CIF) for all binary patterns.  CIF is a primitive ASCII two-dimensional drawing format.  The hierarchical text-based files can be read or edited with any text editor and the simple nature of the keyword-parameter calls allows files to be computationally generated.  The CIF format is also supported by many editors.
    • Multilevel Patterns: For grayscale or multilevel patterns, PhotonSteer™ accepts either BMP or DAT file types.  In addition to the pixel data from the BMP or DAT, a simple text file (.txt) containing image metadata is required.  Any standard image or graphics application can be used to produce BMP/DAT files and the .txt file can be written manually, computationally, or by PhotonSteer™ on import.
  • Layout Editors
    • CleWin 5
      • CleWin is the default layout editor associated with the PhotonSteer™ software package that controls the laser writer.  CleWin is simple to use and supports a hierarchical symbol environment for fast and powerful editing.
      • Documentation: Manuals and other documentation are available on the Downloads page.
      • Read Formats: CIF (.cif) Oasis(.oas) GDS-II (.gds), DXF (.dxf), EMK (.emk), Gerber RS-274X (.gbr), and Drill (.tap)
      • Write Formats: CIF (.cif) Oasis(.oas) GDS-II (.gds), DXF (.dxf)
      • Operating Systems: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 10
      • Download: CleWin is not free, but is included with the laser writer system for associated users.  It is available to via the Downloads page.
    • KLayout
      • KLayout is an open source  layout editor published under the GNU public license GPL version 2.  Originally only a layout viewer, KLayout now supports editing as well.  KLayout excels at file format conversions and is the tool of choice for converting DXF files to CIF.  (DXF files can be created with AutoCAD, Solidworks, and nearly all EDA software.) KLayout is also available for Mac OS.
      • Documentation: Manuals and other documentation are available from klayout.de and on the Downloads page.
      • Read Formats: CIF (.cif) Oasis(.oas) GDS-II (.gds), GDS-II text (.txt), DXF (.dxf), LEF/DEF (.lef/.def), and Gerber PCB project (.pcb)
      • Write Formats: CIF (.cif) Oasis(.oas) GDS-II (.gds), GDS-II text (.txt), DXF (.dxf), LEF/DEF (.lef/.def), and Gerber PCB project (.pcb)
      • Operating Systems: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 10,  Mac OS, Ubuntu 14/16, CentOS 6/7, OpenSuSE
      • Download: KLayout is available from klayout.de.

For access to downloadable content, contact lithography_facility@colostate.edu.