.BRD File Extension

BRD files store information in a text-based, human-readable format. In versions prior to KiCad 6, BRD files are saved in a structured key-value format, where each section defines elements of the PCB, including layers, footprints, traces, vias, and board edges. Beginning with version 6, BRD files are saved in an S-expression-like text format, which is also human-readable.

NOTE: KiCAD replaced BRD files with .KICAD_PCB files with the release of version 4.0.

You can open BRD files with KiCad. You can open a BRD file in multiple ways, including opening the .PRO project that contains the BRD file (the PCB editor will automatically recognize the layout file associated with the project) or by selecting File → Open with the KiCad PCB editor.

Since BRD files are saved in a human-readable text format, you can also open them with a text editor, such as Microsoft Notepad or Apple TextEdit. However, opening the files with a text editor will not appear the same as opening them with KiCad.

Cadence Allegro PCB Designer is a CAD program that electrical engineers use to prototype PCBs. The designs that engineers create in Allegro PCB Designer are saved as BRD files.

Other Cadence CAD programs can also create and load BRD files. For example, OrCAD PCB Designer allows engineers to save circuit board layouts as BRD files.

You can open a BRD file in Cadence Allegro PCB Designer (Windows), OrCAD PCB Designer (Windows), and Allegro Viewer (Windows). Allegro Viewer is a free BRD file viewer available for download from Cadence's website.

You can use Cadence Allegro PCB Designer to convert BRD files to many standard PCB formats (including the Gerber format), as well as the .PDF format.