Virtual BOM Export for Visual PCB Collaboration

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When a BOM needs to do more than list parts

In many projects, the BOM is still treated as a static document. The data may be correct, but the crucial context is missing: where each component sits on the PCB and how it relates to the layout. PCB-Investigator’s Virtual BOM Export closes that gap by combining structured material data with an interactive, zoomable PCB view in a single HTML file.

This is not just a nicer presentation format. It gives engineers, buyers, and manufacturing teams the same visual reference, making reviews faster and handoffs far less error-prone. Instead of switching between tables and layout tools, teams can explore the full design context in one centralized view.

Interactive by design

The Virtual BOM is generated as a standalone HTML export, so no extra software is required. Users can click a component entry and instantly locate it on the board, then zoom into the relevant area for a closer look. That makes it a practical tool for design reviews, supplier communication, and production preparation.

“The best BOM is the one people can actually use to understand the board.”

By linking data and layout, the Virtual BOM helps eliminate ambiguity. It gives every stakeholder a shared understanding of the design, which is especially valuable when timing is tight and decisions need to be made quickly.

Flexible enough for real workflows

With the Component Manager, you can define which fields and columns should appear in the export. Whether you need part numbers, internal attributes, or project-specific data, the output can be tailored to match your process. You can also brand the export with your company logo and visual style.

  • HTML-based export with embedded PCB layout preview
  • Clickable component navigation for fast board localization
  • Custom column configuration via Component Manager
  • Shareable standalone file for teams, suppliers, and customers
  • Branded output to match your corporate identity

For engineering, procurement, and manufacturing, that means fewer manual corrections and clearer communication from design to production.

If you want to make your BOM more visual, more collaborative, and more production-ready, take a closer look at the Virtual BOM Export in PCB-Investigator.