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Take a look at the typical switching regulator layout on a PCB; usually, everything is placed on a single layer for multiple reasons. Sometimes, such as in low-power scenarios, the circuit is just physically small, so there is not really a need to use two layers to save space. For larger switching regulators, the physically large size of components means that placement on two layers might save some space in theory, but this makes placement inside...

Every PCB that wants to become a real device will need to be assembled with high yield. Some strategic planning is needed to ensure the board can be assembled correctly on the first go. An understanding of some basic Design for Assembly (DFA) guidelines can help ensure your design passes through manufacturing assembly with minimal defects and no rework. In this article, we will cover the following points: Why is DFA Important in PCB Design? Ob...

Whether you’re creating a new circuit design or trying to determine whether a substitute for an out-of-stock component will function properly in your existing design, simulation can be a vital, time-saving tool. Join our webinar this month and see firsthand how using simulation tools throughout your design process can help you easily verify that your finished project functions as intended. We will cover: The Altium Designer in-schematic...

Whether you’re creating a new circuit design or trying to determine whether a substitute for an out-of-stock component will function properly in your existing design, simulation can be a vital, time-saving tool. Join our webinar this month and see firsthand how using simulation tools throughout your design process can help you easily verify that your finished project functions as intended. We will cover: The Altium Designer in-schematic...

Whether you’re creating a new circuit design or trying to determine whether a substitute for an out-of-stock component will function properly in your existing design, simulation can be a vital, time-saving tool. Join our webinar this month and see firsthand how using simulation tools throughout your design process can help you easily verify that your finished project functions as intended. We will cover: The Altium Designer in-schematic...

  Every circuit board should obey DFM (design for manufacturability) guidelines to avoid potential manufacturing and assembly errors. This also focuses on cost reduction, quality improvement, and defect-free manufacturing. In this article, we will explain some of the top DFM errors in PCBs and various techniques to avoid them. A Glance at PCB Design for Manufacturing (DFM) DFM analysis allows manufacturers to review the design of the board...

High frequency PCB design can seem esoteric, and I've heard many an engineer describe it as "black magic"! The subject is also a bit confusing, especially once someone asks which frequencies could be reasonably considered "high". The reality is that some of the challenges present in high speed design also appear in high frequency design, but we think about them in different ways. Before you do anything inside the layout for a high-speed or RF PCB...

In this episode, we will continue with the topic of Design WITH Manufacturing, and joining us is Mike Vinson, the Chief Operating Officer at Averatek. Mike will help us understand Averatek’s advanced PCB manufacturing processes, including the technology and chemistry behind A-SAP and 3D printing. Listen to the Podcast: Download this episode (right-click and save) Watch the video: Show Highlights: Mike Vinson's background Mike explains...

When we talk about copper roughness, we always bring it up as if it were a universally bad thing. The fact is, some circuits will always function just fine even if the copper is rough. As long as your traces are fabricated to spec in every other area, the roughness of the traces might not matter as long as your operating frequency or bandwidth are low enough. Just what constitutes “low enough” and when is the effect of roughness so small that we...