Introduced robust rigid-flex design capabilities, including the definition of unique stackups for different zones of a single board and bending radius simulation.
A unified constraint management system that governs rules across schematic, simulation, and layout simultaneously, crucial for modern high-speed designs like DDR5 and high-lane-count PCIe Gen 5/6.
Introduced thermal analysis tools and expanded differential pair routing rules, allowing physical constraints to be defined directly from the schematic.
Whether you are a veteran clinging to PADS 9.5 or a student learning on VX.2.15, you are using software that has shaped the electronics of the last 40 years. From automotive ECUs to IoT sensors, the "people's PCB tool" continues to route the world. mentor graphics pads version history
Before becoming a flagship product for Mentor Graphics, PADS established its reputation as a powerful DOS-based tool that democratized PCB design for small to medium-sized enterprises.
In 2012, Mentor Graphics introduced PADS OrCAD and PADS Xpedition, two new product lines that integrated PADS with other Mentor Graphics tools.
In 2017, acquired Mentor Graphics. The "Mentor Graphics" brand is slowly fading, but "Mentor PADS" lives on as Siemens EDA PADS . Whether you are a veteran clinging to PADS 9
The VX.2 generation focused on mechanical collaboration, rigid-flex design, and thermal analysis.
The transition period. Siemens focused on bridging PADS (mid-tier) with its high-end Xpedition Enterprise tool.
These versions dropped the rigid DOS structure for a modern MDI (Multiple Document Interface) window environment. It introduced modeless commands (such as typing G 10 to change grid size instantly), a feature that users still rely on today. In 2012, Mentor Graphics introduced PADS OrCAD and
In 2001, Mentor Graphics acquired PADS, Inc., the company behind the PADS software. This acquisition marked a significant milestone in the evolution of PADS. The integration of PADS into Mentor Graphics' product portfolio led to the release of PADS 4.0. This version introduced a more comprehensive design flow, incorporating schematic capture, simulation, and PCB layout. PADS 4.0 also featured improved collaboration tools, enabling designers to work more effectively with manufacturing and assembly teams.
A revolutionary shift. It combined PADS front-end ease of use with the powerful, high-end commercial engine of Mentor’s flagship Xpedition tool . This brought enterprise-grade features—like the acclaimed Sketch Router —to the desktop market. Major VX Milestones (VX.1 to VX.2)
The company was briefly sold to Japanese manufacturer Kyoden before being merged into Innoveda (a venture between Viewlogic and other capital) in 2000. Mentor Graphics Era (2001–2017)
: Siemens completed its acquisition of Mentor Graphics, rebranding the division as Siemens EDA . Key Version Releases