Printed Circuit Design & Fab Online Magazine

Best Practices

How tools are advancing the speed with which highly computational tasks are performed.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into printed circuit board (PCB) design is no longer a vision for the future; it is a reality. Advanced electronic design automation (EDA) tools now incorporate AI-driven solutions, providing a competitive edge for those ready to embrace this transformative technology. Yet, despite its availability and potential, many remain reluctant to adopt AI.

Given the current shortage and fierce competition for talent, the number of skilled engineers entering the industry is simply not enough, a workforce gap that continues to grow. Companies are addressing this issue as best they can. Current engineers are forced to do more with less, as well as cross-pollinate in disciplines outside their specialty in the quest for project success. New engineers must get up to speed faster, assuming more tasks while learning on the fly, which adds stress and concerns to the project as well as to each individual team member.

Read more: AI in PCB Design: It’s Already Here

Changing dynamics in the workforce are driving the need for an intuitive user experience. Are the tools up to the task?

The demand for electronics is surging globally, driven by the rapid pace of technological advancement and innovations in sectors like automotive, telecommunications, healthcare and consumer electronics. PCB design, the backbone of electronics hardware, powers everything from smartphones and medical devices to industrial machinery and aerospace systems. PCB design plays a critical role in enabling technological growth.

As the demand for advanced, high-performance electronics devices grows, so does the need for skilled engineers and PCB designers who can navigate the complexities of creating reliable and innovative circuits and board designs. The changing demographics of engineers and PCB designers reaching retirement, the growing talent gap and the limited pipeline supply of new talent have stirred up many discussions and debates on how to address this need.

Read more: Addressing the Global Talent Shortage

But with it comes signal integrity and thermal issues.

Ultra-high-density interconnect (UHDI) topologies support the creation of electronic circuits with unparalleled wiring density, enabling the creation of compact yet powerful electronic devices. This month, we'll touch on the complexities of UHDI design, the crucial role of verification methods, and the multifaceted challenges inherent in pushing the boundaries of electronic miniaturization.

Designing UHDI topologies demands a delicate balance of several factors. It begins with understanding the unique wiring density requirements dictated by the specific application and IC packaging, as well as the capabilities of the PCB fabricator. Whether for consumer electronics requiring sleek designs or aerospace systems demanding robustness, tailoring wiring density is paramount.

Achieving high wiring density alone isn’t enough, however; ensuring signal integrity is equally critical. In densely packed circuits, risks of interference and crosstalk loom large, threatening overall system performance. Meticulous planning and layout optimization are essential to mitigate these challenges.

Read more: The Era of Ultra-High-Density Interconnect Topologies Has Begun

Overcoming the challenges of rigid-flex designs can be incredibly rewarding.

As technology continues to advance, the demand for smaller, lighter and more efficient electronic devices is ever increasing. This demand has led to the emergence of rigid-flex PCBs, a revolutionary technology that combines the benefits of rigid and flexible circuits into a single solution.

As a principal PCB designer with several decades of experience in designing a wide spectrum of PCB technologies, I've had the privilege of delving deep into the world of rigid-flex PCB design. This month I'll share insights and experiences from my journey within this fascinating technology.

As I have progressed in my evolution as a PCB designer, more specifically with regards to rigid-flex PCB design, this technology has always presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities compared to traditional rigid PCBs or flexible PCBs. One of the significant advantages of rigid-flex technology is its ability to reduce space and weight in electronic devices while improving reliability and durability. Achieving these benefits, however, requires a thorough understanding of rigid and flexible circuit design principles, as well as the nuances of integrating them seamlessly.

Read more: A Journey in Rigid-Flex Design