The 2.5D view respects your 2D layout settings. If you change a layer's fill color or hide it in the main viewer, it will update in the 2.5D window.
Let me know how you would like to proceed with configuring your ! Share public link
You can run this script directly from the macro editor using the "Run" button. Once executed, the 2.5D window will appear, displaying the extruded version of the layout section currently visible in your main layout view. You can also open the viewer at any time via Tools → 2.5d View → Open Window .
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Run this script, and your 2.5D view configures itself instantly.
KLayout operates primarily as a GDSII, OASIS, and DXF file viewer. In standard operation, it renders layout data as flat, 2D polygons on distinct layers. However, modern semiconductor processes involve complex vertical topologies. The "2.5D View" (often referred to as the "3D View" or "Cross-Section View" within the software) bridges the gap between flat 2D plans and physical 3D realization.
If you are looking to deepen your understanding of KLayout's capabilities, exploring the 2.5D viewer is a great next step. Share public link You can run this script
(if using the native integration or the popular KLayout-2.5D plugin).
The view is best suited for localized views rather than full-chip visualization. A rough practical limit for performance is around 100,000 polygons .
For designers working on MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) or TSV (Through-Silicon Via) technologies, the 25D view is vital. Visualizing how a cavity etches through layers or how a TSV pierces the bulk silicon is difficult in 2D. KLayout allows rapid visualization of these vertical structures without needing a full physics simulation run. This public link is valid for 7 days
# Extrudes layer 1/0 to a height of 200nm, starting at z=100nm z(input(1, 0), zstart: 0.1.um, height: 200.nm)
Enter the —a powerful, integrated feature that provides a pseudo-3D representation of your layout, allowing designers to inspect connectivity and vertical structure without the complexity of a full 3D CAD tool. What is the KLayout 2.5D View?
In the Layers palette, layer order matters. Ensure metal layers are layered appropriately to represent their real-world stacking.
z(layer, zstart: 0.0, height: 1.0) : This extrudes a specific layer from a base (zstart) to a certain thickness (height).
Eliminates the tedious process of exporting to external 3D modeling engines.