Smurfs: The Lost Village

Klayout 25d View

allows you to visualize a 2D layout in 3D by extruding layers vertically based on a script

Wiring Congestion: It allows designers to see "through" the stack to identify areas where multi-layer wiring might be overly dense or inefficient. klayout 25d view

zz(options) block : Groups multiple z statements into a single material for easier display management. allows you to visualize a 2D layout in

3.2 Cross-Section View (The "Slice" Mode)

This is the most scientifically accurate feature for process verification. Open your layout file (GDS/OASIS) in KLayout

3.3 The 3D Viewer

KLayout includes a native 3D rendering engine (utilizing OpenGL).

How to Enable 2.5D View in KLayout

  1. Open your layout file (GDS/OASIS) in KLayout.
  2. Navigate to the menu: View → 2.5D View (or press Ctrl+Shift+5 on many configurations).
  3. If the view appears flat, go to View → 2.5D Configuration and assign extrusion heights to layers.
  4. Use the mouse:

    About the author: This article is written for IC, MEMS, and PCB layout professionals using KLayout. For further reading, consult the official KLayout documentation under “2.5D View” and explore the user forum threads on setting realistic layer heights for your specific technology node.

    It’s not full 3D, but it’s fast, native, and surprisingly useful for quick sanity checks.