Mentor Graphics Pads Version History [upd] May 2026

During the early 1990s, PADS expanded its capabilities with PADS Logic (for schematic capture) and PADS Layout. By 1991, the software had become a standard for service bureaus.

Released to modernize the installation and database structure, PADS 9.4 updated ASCII formats for Layout and Router while maintaining library compatibility. The Modern VX Era: 2014 – Present

For nearly four decades, PADS has remained a cornerstone of printed circuit board (PCB) design, evolving from a simple DOS-based tool into a sophisticated suite of electronic design automation (EDA) solutions. Now part of Siemens EDA (formerly Mentor Graphics), the PADS version history reflects the industry's shift from manual drafting to high-speed, automated, and cloud-integrated design. The Early Era: 1985 – 1997 mentor graphics pads version history

The transition to Mentor Graphics marked the integration of high-end analysis tools into the PADS ecosystem.

Founded by Gene Marsh, the first version of PADS was released for the DOS operating system, priced affordably at approximately $495 per seat to target individual engineers. During the early 1990s, PADS expanded its capabilities

PADS began as a startup focused on bringing professional-grade PCB layout tools to the desktop.

Kyoden sold PADS to Innoveda, which was subsequently acquired by Mentor Graphics in 2001. The Modern VX Era: 2014 – Present For

In 2014, Mentor Graphics overhauled the product line, introducing the "VX" (Vertical Experience) platform and tiering the software into Standard, Standard Plus, and Professional.