3. The Next-Generation Platform: PADS VX Series (2014–2021)
Shifted to modern UI, 3D, and increased performance.
Mentor shifted to a "dot" release format (9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5). This was the most stable era of the software. mentor graphics pads version history
Released in 1998, PADS Version 4.0 was a major milestone in the software's evolution. This version introduced a new user interface, improved performance, and enhanced features such as:
With the (Variable X) branding, Mentor introduced a subscription‑style numbering scheme and a cloud‑connected component portal. This was the most stable era of the software
Below is a comprehensive version history, highlighting major releases, architectural shifts, and feature milestones.
Mentor transitioned to the VX (Virtual Extensible) platform. Following Siemens' acquisition of Mentor Graphics in 2017, the software was rebranded as Siemens EDA . Summary of Major Releases Mentor Graphics PADS 9.3 Tutorial - Introduction Part 1 Below is a comprehensive version history, highlighting major
Released in 2003, was the first version released under the new naming convention. It was praised for its stability and marked the true beginning of the modern PADS flow. It included service packs like SPac1 , which focused on usability and defect fixes, and SPac2 and SPac3 , which delivered updated versions of tools like DxDesigner.
Before it became a Mentor Graphics product, the PADS software family was developed by PADS Software Inc. The company released its first product, , in 1986 for the DOS operating system. Over the following years, the toolkit rapidly expanded to include PADS Logic in 1989 and PADS 2000 in 1990, establishing a complete circuit board design flow. In 1993, PADS Perform launched for both DOS and Windows, marking the software's initial step toward a graphical interface that would define its future.
: A landmark "next-generation" release that introduced significantly enhanced scalability and integration with Mentor’s high-end technologies for analysis and manufacturing. PADS 9.4 (March 2012)