What does it take to be a successful designer or fabricator of printed circuit boards? What tools, processes and skill sets will be required to keep pace with the next generation of advanced PCBs and electronic platforms?

These are the types of questions being explored this week in Durham, NC, as designers, OEMs, fabricators and suppliers meet at the 12^th annual PCB East conference and exhibition being held at the Durham Civic Center. This is the second year the event has been held at this location. Advanced registration was up versus 2006 levels at this same location, a good indication of the show’s continued draw for engineers, designers and fabricators who are looking to stay at the top of their game.