Shekhar Bhansali wrote:

> Dear Colleagues,
>
> I've been investigating conversion programs for converting mask
> drawings
> (DXF and GDS) to the format recognised by the pattern Generator (Mann
> 3600).
>
> I have information and pricing on two products:
>
> (a) conversion software from TOOL corporation in Japan. Cost yen
> 5,000,000
>     (appox USD 43,500).
>
> (b) Conversion software from Artwork conversion Inc in USA  Cost
> 575,000 yen
>     appox (USD 5,000)
>
> They are both bi-directional translators.
>
> I would like to know if you have had any experience with these
> conversion
> programs and how would you rate them, in terms of design restrictions
> and
> design reproducibility.
>
> Also are you aware of any other code which can accomplish these
> conversions?
>
> Thanks
>
> Shekhar Bhansali
>

   We are using Artwork Conversion Software's products and have found
them acceptable for converting to Gerber and GDSII formats.

Lynn Saunders

MicroConnect, Inc.