9. Layout with GDSFactory

GDSFactory provides a Python-based alternative to manual layout editors like KLayout. Instead of drawing geometries by hand, you write Python code to generate your layouts.

9.1. Advantages over manual layout

AI-assisted design

Generate layout code using AI tools, accelerating the design process. Large language models can write GDSFactory scripts, enabling rapid prototyping and iteration.

Automated design

Parameterize and script your cells, enabling batch generation and design-space exploration. Sweep device dimensions, spacings or array configurations with a simple loop.

Complex systems

Build hierarchical layouts programmatically, making it easier to create large-scale designs such as photonic, RF or mixed-signal systems that would be tedious to draw by hand.

Reproducibility

Layouts defined as code are version-controlled, testable and shareable. Every design change is tracked in git, and layouts can be regenerated deterministically.

9.2. Getting started

See the IHP GDSFactory plugin documentation for installation instructions, tutorials and examples:

https://gdsfactory.github.io/IHP/