Sunstone Circuits has introduced the Intermediate Data Format (IDF) Plug-In, the first plug-in module for PCB123. This free, downloadable import/export plug-in gives PCB designers the ability to import PCB designs for mechanical and electrical CAD systems in a bi-directional, neutral format within the Sunstone ECOsystem Design Environment. Outline definitions of PCBs based on mechanical CAD tool specifications can be imported, synchronizing the design and development work. The plug-in allows new tools to be integrated into existing software, as well as improving the design to manufacture process.
 
www.sunstone.com/products-service.cad-software.aspx

LORD Corporation introduces the 8600 Series, a RoHS-compliant polymer resistor system seen as an alternative to ceramic high-temperature materials for potentiometer applications. The polymer material is softer and provides extended life and reduced wear on components, and the low cure temperature allows a cost-savings alternative to higher firing Cermet-based resistor systems. The 8600 series can be screen-printed onto numerous substrates such as PCBs, glass and flexible substrates, and the cured film can resist many common solvents.
 
www.lord.com/electronicmaterials

The turnkey RF design through fab system is comprised of Agilent's Genesys is an integrated EDA software platform for RF and microwave designers and workgroups that addresses initial system architecture through final documentation. T-Tech's Quick Circuit System is a rapid-prototyping solution that can drill, mill and route traces and spaces as fine as 0.100mm / 0.004 inches, and can produce analog, digital or RF/microwave prototypes.

www.agilent.com
www.t-tech.com

Intercept Technology, Inc. introduced three new products, DrawingX, QCX and ReleaseX. The suite works in conjunction to fully automate the post-processing of completed designs—from quality control checks to the production of drawing packages to the creation of release packages for final delivery.
 
According to the company, DrawingX allows users to fully automate drawing package creation, saving time and resources, and has options such auto-dimensioning and auto-generation of standard notes. QCX sustains a comprehensive rules set of ERCs, MRCs and DRCs that are specifically tailored to meet manufacturer’s needs. ReleaseX reduces the creation of design files, and output files can be posted on a user-specified FTP site. 
 
www.intercept.com