Selecting this command allows another complete VisualCAM (.vcam file), GerbTool (.gtd file) or CAM350 (.pcb or .cam file) to be merged layer by layer into the currently loaded design. The layers will be ordered exactly as they are in each design, so it is important that the layer types of each design match.
If you want the layers to remain separate, you must first open one of the designs and move the layers so that the two designs do not have any common layer numbers. Or, instead of using the Merge function, you can export one of the databases as Gerber (if is not already in that format), then use File|Import|Import Wizard to load the Gerber layers. Gerber files are always imported to empty layers.
Use File|Open or a File|Import command to load one design.
Select the File|Merge command. The Merge Design dialog box appears.
Select the .vcam or .gtd file you wish to merge in.
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If you wish to merge in a CAM350 file, click on the Files Of Type box and select the CAM350 Database option. This will allow you to search for and select a .pcb or .cam file.
Click the Open button. The origin of the file is attached to the cursor, and you are prompted to select an insertion point in the workspace.
Click where you want the merged design to be.
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Click the Abs button in the XY Bar, or press the C hotkey, and specify the exact coordinates where the design should be placed (e.g. 0:0).
You are warned of any errors or layer type conflicts, and your databases are merged.
Press the Esc key to exit the function.
Notes regarding CAM350 files:
CAM350 v7.X databases can contain panelized data. If your database contains a panel, the panel itself, the one-up image, and any symbols are saved as separate .vcam files (you are prompted to select a folder to contain the files). You are then asked if you want to view the panel or the one-up image file.
CAM350 DFM errors are added as Redline data (on a separate layer).
Polygon Voids are supported, but are not recognized as standalone entities. Voids are only relative to the closed and filled polygon that contains them. If you query a polygon void (Query|Item command), the information returned is for the polygon itself. Polygon voids also cannot be modified, added, or deleted.