: Users define the stack using z() functions within the script. For example, z(input(1, 0), zstart: 0.1.um, height: 200.nm) would extrude layer 1 at a 100nm offset with a 200nm thickness.
Adjust Z-axis scaling. (Because semiconductor layers are incredibly thin compared to their X/Y dimensions, you often need to stretch the Z-axis scale by 5x to 100x to make the layers clearly visible). Advanced Techniques and Best Practices 1. Scripting Your Stack-up
Rotate, zoom, and tilt the layout to inspect the geometry from any angle.
: The 2.5D view is only available if your KLayout version was compiled with OpenGL support. klayout 25d view
Unlike a simple 3D toggle, generating a 2.5D view in KLayout requires a . This gives you immense control to define the material stack precisely.
KLayout’s 25D feature requires a few setup steps. It is not enabled by default in minimal installations due to hardware acceleration dependencies.
Integrated circuit (IC) design demands absolute precision. While traditional 2D layout views show the horizontal boundaries of components, they fail to represent the vertical stackup of a chip. This gap can lead to critical design oversights. : Users define the stack using z() functions
zz([options]) block : Groups multiple z statements to create complex 3D material geometries.
Instantly spot vertical overlaps, missing vias, or incorrect layer order that standard 2D Design Rule Checking (DRC) text logs might obscure.
[Image: Klayout 2.5D view showing metal/dielectric/via stack] Same GDS data, but now you see the vertical stack. #Klayout : The 2
In KLayout (usually version 0.26 and later), you can find this under:
This is the core function for creating individual layers. It takes a layer and extrudes it with a set of options. For a full technical breakdown, refer to the official documentation.
. This is particularly useful for verifying material stacks, such as MEMS devices or CMOS metal layers. 1. Prerequisites OpenGL Support
