Mentor Graphics Pads Version History =link= Jun 2026

The software gained popularity for its ease of use on desktop PCs. During this era, PADS acquired critical technologies like (1997) for signal integrity and The company was sold to , a joint venture involving ViewLogic. The Mentor Graphics Era (2001–2016)

This version brought massive improvements to the internal database structure. It introduced support for complex via structures (blind and buried vias) and expanded differential pair routing capabilities to accommodate high-speed digital designs. PADS 9.0 (2009)

Siemens acquired Mentor Graphics in 2017, eventually rebranding the division to Siemens EDA in 2021. Under Siemens, PADS has evolved into a deeply integrated cloud-connected desktop ecosystem. PADS Professional Premium (2021–Present)

Both versions continued refining the platform with stability improvements and incremental feature enhancements. They supported Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows 7 operating systems. mentor graphics pads version history

for the DOS operating system. At just $495 per seat, it democratized PCB design for individual engineers. Late 1980s – 1990s

PADS 8.x – 9.x (late 2000s – early 2010s)

The software’s journey is marked by key acquisitions that integrated advanced simulation and layout technologies: : Founded by Gene Marsh as PADS Software . The software gained popularity for its ease of

Mentor Graphics acquired Innoveda in 2002, integrating PADS into its broad Electronic Design Automation (EDA) portfolio. : Introduced GUI standardization, the Project Explorer

The Evolution of Mentor Graphics PADS: A Complete Version History

| Feature | PADS Standard | PADS Standard Plus | PADS Professional | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Engineers focused on schematic & PCB design | Hardware engineers requiring analysis & verification | Advanced users needing top-tier technology | | Core Functionality | Includes a starter parts library and part creation wizard | Includes all Standard features, plus advanced constraint management and central library creation | Includes all Standard Plus features, plus Xpedition-powered technology | | Analysis & Simulation | --- | Supports HyperLynx Signal/Thermal/Analog Simulation | Full HyperLynx integration | | Key Technology | Standard PADS tools | High-speed net topology editing | Sketch Routing , 3D Layout , hierarchical placement planning | It introduced support for complex via structures (blind

Streamlined team communication 3.2.4. PartQuest Portal: Access to 625 million+ components 3.2.4. PADS VX.2.15 (2024 - 2025)

Mentor Graphics PADS is a renowned electronic design automation (EDA) software used for designing and manufacturing printed circuit boards (PCBs). Since its inception, PADS has undergone significant transformations, with each new version offering enhanced features, improved performance, and increased functionality. In this article, we will explore the version history of Mentor Graphics PADS, highlighting key milestones, new features, and the impact of each version on the EDA industry.