Gerber PCB Format

The Gerber file format is the standard for PCB design and manufacture, it describes how the tracks are to be laid and any printing or etching additional to the conductor tracks, such as component identification or other notices.

Circuit Board Etching

Etching refers to the process of laying the tracks on a circuit board, tracks that are used as interconnection for the components to be assembled on it.

There are many processes used for etching, some use a 'mask' that protects some parts of a copper layer in the board, that are to become the tracks. Other processes include electrolytic and immersion, where layer of conductive material are deposited where the tracks are supposed to be, or removed from where connections are not needed.