About CAM output publishing

Publishing CAM outputs to Fusion packages manufacturing files into a single ZIP archive and uploads it to your Fusion project. These files include Gerber, drill, and assembly data. This process stores production data in the cloud next to your schematic and PCB designs. Your team members and board fabricators can then access version-controlled manufacturing packages from one place.

You can publish CAM outputs to Fusion from both the CAM Processor and CAM Export tools in the 2D PCB workspace.

Why publishing to Fusion is important

Many PCB workflows export files to local folders, zip them manually, and share them by email. This approach splits data across multiple places. It also risks sending outdated revisions to board fabricators and separates manufacturing files from the source design.

Publishing CAM outputs directly to Fusion links production packages to your design files. Anyone with project access can view, download, and track the exact package made for each board revision without manual file transfers.

Benefits

• Version history: Each publish action creates a new version (v1, v2, v3) within a single file history in the Fusion web client and the Data Panel. This gives you a clear history that matches your PCB revisions.
• Design relationship tracking: The uploaded ZIP file links to the source board in the cloud. This link helps you trace which board version created each package.
• Team and vendor access: Collaborators and fabricators can view and download files in the Fusion web client without installing desktop CAD software.
• Flexible folder choice: Files save to the board project folder by default. You can also pick any folder in your Fusion project.
• Separate job histories: Different exports, such as standard Gerber and ODB++ files, keep their own separate version histories.
• Fast navigation: Desktop alerts let you open the file in the Fusion web client, show it in the Data Panel, or view the local folder.

Limitations

• Cloud-saved designs only: You must save the board file in a Fusion project. If you save the board locally, the Upload to Fusion option is disabled.
• Single ZIP archive: Fusion bundles all outputs from a CAM job into one ZIP file rather than loose files.
• Network connection: You need an active internet connection to upload files to Fusion cloud services.
• Project permissions: You must have edit rights in the target Fusion project to upload files and create versions.

Best practices and considerations

• Save and validate first: Save all schematic and board changes. Clear all Design Rule Check (DRC) and Electrical Rule Check (ERC) errors before you publish.
• Inspect outputs: Review your layers, drills, and board dimensions in CAM Preview or CAM Processor before creating a cloud version.
• Keep consistent names: Use standard job and output names across revisions. Consistent names keep your version history continuous in the Fusion web client.
• Organize project folders: Use the browse option to store CAM outputs in a dedicated folder, such as Manufacturing or CAMOutputs.
• Publish on key milestones: Create a new CAM version when you hit a project milestone or release a design change.