Product Updates
FAB 3000 Version 8.9.15 Released
Simon Garrison
FAB 3000
We're excited to announce the release of FAB 3000 Version 8.9.15, packed with new features, faster workflows, enhanced CAM intelligence, and dozens of refinements to improve accuracy and productivity. Below is a full breakdown of everything included in this update.
🚀 New Features
- Merge Workspace File
You can now merge additional workspace files directly into your current session. - Select Mode: Touching
Selecting an object now selects any other objects it physically touches — ideal for cleanup, inspection, and batch edits.
⚙️ Improved Features
- Add Teardrops
Results are smoother, cleaner, and more reliable. - Apply Etch Factors
Enhanced accuracy when adjusting for etching compensation. - Draw Active Layer Last
Now available in both the Stackup and Layers tables. - Silkscreen Optimization
Faster processing with better-quality output. - Convert Negative Layer
More robust, predictable results. - Remove Outside PCB
Includes a new clearance option for better edge cleanup. - Copper Pour
Improved performance and more consistent fills. - Compare Layers
Much faster and significantly more accurate. - Compare Jobs
Improved speed and accuracy across multi-job comparisons. - Add Panel Outline Options
- Extend Panel Outlines
- Default line width now set to 5 mil
- SMT Adjust Paste Volume by Percentage
Now supports selecting a destination layer. - Create Panel Drawing
Enhanced for better documentation and clarity. - Add Panel Outline Layer
More reliable with improved shape consistency. - DFM Check: Minimum Clearance (Plated Drills to Copper)
More intelligent detection with fewer false positives. - Gerber Import Layer Type Detection
Smarter, more accurate automatic layer classification. - SMT Enhancements
Now accepts both flash and polygon pad-pairs in these tools:- Homebase Pad Conversion
- Heel/Toe Edits
- C-Pad Conversion
- Add Epoxy Bars
🐞 Fixed Features
- Resolved internal issue with Silkscreen Optimizer
- PostScript Export ("One File for ALL Layers") now outputs all layers correctly
- Vector PDF Export ("One File for ALL Layers") now outputs all layers on page 1 correctly
- Build Components for 2-pin exceeding 1.5 inches fixed
- Compare Jobs / Compare Layers results improved
- NC Rout path display improved
- Realistic PCB Mode now allows layers to be turned ON afterward
- View Panel box no longer forced ON
- Panel box now visible after Panel Setup
- Wildcard matching improved using * for start/end
- Default workspace units now set to millimeters instead of microns
- SMT tools now support 0.01° rotation in:
- Homebase Conversion Pads
- Add Epoxy
- Split Pad
- Toe/Heel
- Plus: 25 minor GUI enhancements throughout the application.
🎉 Summary
FAB 3000 Version 8.9.15 brings powerful enhancements that improve speed, accuracy, and overall workflow efficiency across the entire CAM process. Whether you're panelizing, performing DFM checks, generating manufacturing docs, or prepping for assembly, this release delivers meaningful upgrades that streamline your day-to-day work.
