Include what the next builder needs.
A useful release contains the source, the instructions, and a clear license. PCB releases also include the manufacturing package and a readable schematic.
Required files by design type
| Design type | Required files |
|---|---|
| PCB / circuit board | Build notes / README, License text, Editable PCB source, Editable schematic source, Gerber manufacturing ZIP, Schematic PDF, Bill of materials, Excellon drills (separate or inside the Gerber ZIP) |
| schematic | Build notes / README, License text, Editable schematic source, Schematic PDF, Bill of materials |
| firmware | Build notes / README, License text, Firmware source |
| mechanical | Build notes / README, License text, Mechanical CAD source |
| simulation | Build notes / README, License text, Simulation source |
| other | Build notes / README, License text, Documentation |
PCB assembly releases also require component placement. Include all copper layers, a closed board outline, solder mask, silkscreen, and drill files in the fabrication ZIP. BOMs should identify reference designators, values, footprints, quantities, and manufacturer part numbers where applicable.
Package native project files with any symbols, footprints, libraries, models, firmware, and settings needed to reopen and modify the design. Document software versions, board thickness, stackup, materials, assembly variants, operating limits, test instructions, and known issues in the README.
Maximum upload size is 16 MiB per file, with up to 100 files and 128 MiB per release. File checks confirm recognizable formats and required roles; they do not certify electrical correctness or manufacturability.
What you can inspect in the workbench
| Source | Viewer support |
|---|---|
| Gerber + Excellon | Layered 2D artwork and interactive 3D board, including supported outlines, cutouts, and drills. Component bodies need separate models and are not generated from Gerbers. |
| KiCad 6+ | Native .kicad_sch sheets with embedded symbol definitions. Include hierarchical sheets together. Unsupported constructs are reported by the viewer. |
| Autodesk Eagle | XML .sch drawings with embedded library symbols. Legacy binary files require an exported PDF or SVG. |
| EasyEDA Standard | Supported schematic geometry from Standard JSON. EasyEDA Pro has a different format; export PDF or SVG. |
| Legacy KiCad | Partial wire and position preview. Export PDF/SVG from KiCad for an accurate symbol drawing when external libraries are needed. |
| Altium Designer | Native binary or ASCII .SchDoc files with embedded symbols, pins, wires, buses, labels and hierarchical sheet blocks. Open child sheets together or in a ZIP. The viewer reports omitted images or specialized objects; use PDF for exact typography. |
| OrCAD, PADS, and other tools | Use PDF or SVG exports for viewing. Keep the native project in the release for editing in its original software. |
Local files are processed in your browser. Publishing uploads them to Phase. Sending a manufacturing package to PCBWay is a separate, explicit action.
Open the workbench →Free releases and paid designs
Choose free access or a USD price of at least $1.00. Phase keeps 10% of each design sale; the seller pays Stripe processing fees from the remaining 90%. Payment acceptance and payouts require Stripe onboarding and Phase payment activation.
Publishing fixes a release’s files, license, and price. A purchase grants access to that version, including after a newer version is published or the listing is archived. Future paid releases are separate purchases. Refunded or disputed payments may lose download access. The chosen license defines permitted use, modification, redistribution, and manufacturing.
Only preview images can be public before a paid purchase. Do not include secrets, credentials, personal information, or third-party files you lack permission to distribute.
Send a board to PCBWay
Open a PCB release you can download and use its manufacturing panel. Prepare the Gerber ZIP, optionally include BOM and placement files, enter board dimensions and copper layer count, then explicitly send the package to PCBWay.
The supplied integration opens PCBWay’s own upload and quoting workflow. It does not create an order or promise a price. Confirm their fabrication review, terms, and delivery details before ordering.