Via Layers

Via layers are used to create a connecting metal layer between two existing signal layers. They are abstract constructs that exist between and in reference to their signal layers. For instance, a via layer’s Evaluated Lower and Evaluated Upper values are defined by the Evaluated Lower and Evaluated Upper values of their signal layers. The thickness of a via layer is the distance between its reference signal layers. Via layers are rendered as purple in the Edit Layers window's Control Grid.

To create a via layer:

1. From the Edit Layers window, make the stackup an overlapping stackup.
2. Use the mouse and Ctrl key to select two signal layers between which the via layer exists.
3. Right-click on one of the selected layers and click Insert Via Layer. The new layer appears in the Stackup Viewer and Control Grid.

Existing layers in an overlapping stackup can be changed to via layers by selecting a layer and changing the Type drop-down menu in the Edit selected pane.