The Razor Beam 0.0315" (0.8 mm) pitch high-speed/high-density strip comes in right angle and vertical orientations for parallel, perpendicular, and coplanar applications. Is designed to save PCB real estate on X, Y, and Z axes. Contacts are reportedly ideal for rugged applications with undercut retention notches that increase withdrawal force and produce an audible click when the contacts engage. Have 20 to 50 contacts per row and a choice of lead styles. Available in heights from 6 mm to 12 mm. Is RoHS-compliant and Pb-free solderable.
Samtec, www.samtec.com
CadStar version 12.1 desktop PCB design suite adds new functionality for advanced library management and signal integrity verification, ECAD MCAD integration, and improved high-speed routing.
Space-Saver BNC connector mounts on the edge of a PCB. Provides low profile for applications with tight vertical constraints. Reduces twisting stress on solder joints inherent in BNC connector mating. A notch in the connector slips over PCB edge prior to soldering, forming a tight mechanical fit that transfers majority of rotational energy to the PCB instead of solder joints. Center pin and connector body are soldered directly to a PCB, minimizing antenna effect caused by elevated mounting approaches and associated EMI/RFI problems at higher frequency ranges. Has a 75 ohm impedance and is tested to 2 Ghz.
Regal Electronics Inc., www.regalusa.com
Ansoft Designer 6.0 Solver on Demand technology analyzes signal-integrity, power-integrity and electromagnetic interference problems from a single schematic- and layout-based environment. Can access field and circuit simulation tools while designing electronic packages and PCBs early in the design cycle. Integrates HFSS 3-D electromagnetic field simulation software and HSPICE IC simulation. Can predict how high-frequency electromagnetic components affect ICs. Provides user interface to HSPICE with direct links to HFSS and access to the ANSYS QuickEye and VerifEye convolution and statistical eye analysis, as well as IBIS-AMI technology.
ANSYS, Inc., www.ansys.com
IsoStack free software tool is for PCB stackup design. Saves design files locally or shares via email in standard formats. Includes up-to-date database of globally available constructions and electrical data on high-speed digital Isola materials. Built-in pressed thickness calculator offers automatic design checks for hybrid builds and warnings for insufficient prepreg and glass stop. Features equation-based calculators for targeting desired impedance. Is available online in beta version.
Isola, www.isola-group.com/isodesign/
Fusion3D laser, for laser-direct structuring, has upgraded revised optics and laser control. Reportedly cuts structuring times for 3D circuit boards 10% to 20%, depending on component layout. Includes improvements on laser head.
LPKF Laser & Electronics AG, http://www.lpkfusa.com/images/fusion3d