It is completely script-driven using the latest industry-standard Python3 language. This increases flexibility and dramatically reduces duplication of effort. The integrated GPDK allows foundries to develop PDKs. It provides Python3 scripting examples for passive/active components, demultiplexers, transceivers, optical computing, optical phased array, and programmable photonics, enabling designers to start layout design immediately after installing the tool. PhotoCAD can be combined with the pSim simulation engine to simulate the circuit layout.

PhotoCAD tools allow users to easily perform complex photonic layout tasks, speeding chip design and reducing design cycle times. The rich built-in sample library allows users to not have to build the code brick by brick from scratch, but only need to make slight modifications on the sample base to get the layout script that meets the requirements. The sample libraries include optical transceiver, VCSEL, OPA, DOE design, MZI array, QKD, etc., covering popular application areas such as automotive LiDAR, optical communication, photonic computing, etc., and can also support research institutions and universities to complete their research designs.

It is worth mentioning that PhotoCAD is based on Python3 syntax, which makes the interface with other physics simulators easier to implement. Currently, there are many physics simulators that open interfaces for python, such as CST, FDTD, COMSOL, etc. Using PhotoCAD, the university partners have also implemented the interface with FDTD simulator, which completes the design process.