This was a major update that introduced unique technology for DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and interactive routing, as highlighted by Jim Martens in his blog post 1.2.5. It also introduced a new installation method 1.2.4 .
The history of PADS (Printed Automated Design System) is a decades-long journey of evolution from a simple DOS tool to a high-end professional EDA (Electronic Design Automation) platform under Siemens EDA Early Origins and Independence (1985–2000) mentor graphics pads version history
A landmark release focused on design reuse . This was a major update that introduced unique
Launched in 2007, this version introduced several significant user-interface enhancements, including the ability to display pin numbers directly on components within the PCB layout. It also improved the software's RF (Radio Frequency) design capabilities, making it more suitable for high-frequency circuit development. PADS 2007 was available in multiple editions (PE, XE, SE) to suit different design needs, and was a notable update. In 2024–2025, the PADS Standard and Standard Plus
In 2024–2025, the PADS Standard and Standard Plus product lines were sold to a Chinese EDA company, renaming to SailWind. Siemens now focuses primarily on PADS Professional within the Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem.
Kyoden sold PADS to Innoveda, which was subsequently acquired by Mentor Graphics in 2001.
In the mid-1990s, the company was secretly acquired by Kyoden, a Japanese PCB manufacturer, which preceded a period of aggressive expansion in the US. The Mentor Graphics Era: 1997 – 2017
