Dear Colleagues,

I've been investigating conversion programs for converting mask drawings
(DXF and GDS) to the format recognised by the pattern Generator (Mann
3600).

I have information and pricing on two products:

(a) conversion software from TOOL corporation in Japan. Cost yen 5,000,000
    (appox USD 43,500).

(b) Conversion software from Artwork conversion Inc in USA  Cost 575,000 yen
    appox (USD 5,000)

They are both bi-directional translators.

I would like to know if you have had any experience with these conversion
programs and how would you rate them, in terms of design restrictions and
design reproducibility.

Also are you aware of any other code which can accomplish these conversions?


Thanks

Shekhar Bhansali