What is HPGL
HPGL, short for Hewlett-Packard Graphics Language, is a lingo utilized in the PCB industry. It serves as a format or language for generating instructions that control the movement and placement of components on a PCB. In the context of PCB design software like Eagle, HPGL is supported to export board layout data.
HPGL exhibits a structure that bears resemblance to G code, which is commonly employed for controlling CNC machines and 3D printers. This similarity suggests that HPGL operates as a language or format for representing instructions related to the positioning and movement of components on a PCB.
The Eagle tool has specific settings associated with exporting to HPGL. These settings encompass the selection of the HPGL device, specification of the scale, provision of a filename, and the setting of the diameter, which should correspond to the diameter of the drawing pen. Additionally, certain layers, such as Top, Pads, and Vias, need to be chosen for the export.