Mentor Graphics Pads Version History |top| May 2026

Mentor Graphics PADS — Version History (selected highlights)

Below is a concise, chronological summary of notable PADS releases, major features, and platform changes from Mentor Graphics (now part of Siemens EDA). This is a high-level overview — for detailed patch notes or build numbers, consult official release documentation.

Key Features and Enhancements

FAQs

Conclusion

The history of Mentor Graphics PADS is a history of democratizing PCB design. From its humble DOS origins as a 256-pin tool to today’s AI-assisted, cloud-connected, high-speed layout engine, PADS has survived multiple acquisitions (CAD Software -> PADS Software -> Innoveda -> Mentor Graphics -> Siemens) because it solved the fundamental problem: giving the engineer control without the workstation price tag.

In 2015, Mentor Graphics released PADS OrCAD, a comprehensive PCB design solution that integrated PADS with the OrCAD schematic capture and simulation tools. This release marked a significant shift towards a more integrated design flow. Later, in 2017, Mentor Graphics released PADS Xtreme, a next-generation PCB design platform that featured a modern user interface, improved performance, and enhanced capabilities for high-speed design, simulation, and collaboration. mentor graphics pads version history

1985: Initial Release: PADS was created by Gene Marsh and first released for the DOS operating system. At launch, it was positioned as an affordable option at roughly $495 per seat.

The Complete History of Mentor Graphics PADS: From DOS Upstart to Siemens Mainstay

Introduction: The People’s PCB Tool

For over three decades, the world of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design has been dominated by a few key players: Cadence Allegro, Altium Designer, Zuken, and the subject of our deep dive—PADS (Personal Automated Design Systems). While high-end tools handled the aerospace and supercomputer markets, PADS carved out a unique legacy. It was the tool for the everyman: the small consultancy, the automotive supplier, the embedded systems engineer, and the hardware startup. From its humble DOS origins as a 256-pin

PADS OrCAD and PADS Xtreme (2015-Present)

Latest Version: PADS Professional VX.2.14 (Dec 2023) & VX.2.15 (Mid 2024)

As of late 2024, the latest production version is VX.2.15. Later, in 2017, Mentor Graphics released PADS Xtreme,