Mentor Graphics Pads Version History [extra Quality] -

: Introduced a new Project Explorer for PADS Logic and Layout, GUI standardization, and the Mentor Standard Installer (MSI).

PADS 6.x – 7.x (mid–late 2000s)

Version 9.5 became a long‑term stable release, still used by many legacy defense and industrial projects as late as 2020. mentor graphics pads version history

The Siemens Era: Next-Generation PADS Professional (2020–Present) : Introduced a new Project Explorer for PADS

PADS started as a low-cost, PC-based PCB design tool in the 1980s, competing with high-end Unix workstations. Over 40+ years, it evolved from a simple layout tool into a scalable suite (PADS Professional, PADS Standard, PADS Standard Plus) under Mentor Graphics (now Siemens EDA). Its version history reflects the shift from DOS to Windows, the integration of simulation, and the move toward cloud/collaboration. Over 40+ years, it evolved from a simple

Kyoden sold PADS to Innoveda, which was subsequently acquired by Mentor Graphics in 2001.