BluePrint-PCB 5.1 has a new graphic user interface that aligns with Microsoft Ribbons user interface scheme. Ribbons interface flattens menu hierarchy to make access to common functions faster. Has a new “world view” to give users quick reference to current screen location. An optional pan-and-zoom function aligns viewing functions with most printed circuit board CAD tools; uses middle mouse button to zoom in and out of sheet-sized documents. Panning function quickly pans across drawing sheet while viewing or executing other drawing commands. User interface enhancements borrow design cues from SoloPCB design tools. Modifications were made to assembly panel functions. When panel design is executed, document view is replaced by a design view that allows color-coding of different panel objects. Assembly panel toolkit now features smart callouts that automatically detect pinning holes and board chamfer; automatically calculates number of instances these features are used in the design to minimize PCB fabrication errors. New online mill checking features have been added. DFMStream has been updated to include new analysis checks to verify anti-pads to adjacent layers to validate 100% ground plane reference and same net minimal spacing. Negative planes were expanded to include minimal width and gap between copper elements and anti-pads. Analysis functions have been upgraded to provide more options to manage the user workspace.

DownStream Technologies, www.downstreamtech.com  

FlexCam Defect and Roughness Metrology Module is for high-speed inspection and measurement in large-area roll-to-roll electronics manufacturing. Characteristics include freedom from vibration, detection of surface roughness in the 1nm range, web speeds up to 1m per min., and a field of view of 4mm.  

FlexTech Alliance, www.flextech.org
4D Technology, www.4DTechnology.com

N100 PCB Nibbler is for singulating tab routed printed circuit boards. Tabs are cut by placing them under a blade and stepping on a foot pedal. 100 Psi factory air is needed. Excess material from the tab is stored inside a compartment of the tool and can be removed. Blades come in a variety of tab sizes and routing thicknesses. Standard blade thicknesses are 0.062", 0.093" and 0.120". Custom sizes can be requested. For low- to medium-volume production quantities.

FKN Systek, www.fknsystek.com

Integr8tor 2015.06 pre-CAM and engineering software offers broader drill support, allowing nonstandard holes to be identified automatically and processed, including countersink or counterbore holes that are to be enlarged in a specific way, or holes to be filled with resin or copper. Calculates the number of press cycles a board will go through from the drill spans, to identify and cost potential production bottlenecks.

Features increased support of and compatibility with a wide range of data formats. Generates PDF files in color and black/white more reliably and accurately from source documents in .docx, dwg and dxf formats. Converted files are said to remain faithful to the originals, with functional drop-down menus and checkboxes. Recognizes more edge-connector and SMD pad shapes; has a new algorithm that improves calculation of spacing between lines of the same net; and a new “auto-snap” feature improves annular ring analysis by automatically placing plated drill holes in the center of copper pads. Flags overlapping holes within drill sequences. QED XML files now enable technologies and capability classes to be identified quickly and easily, together with their critical parameter values, and now allows tailoring of which checks are run.

Ucamco, www.ucamco.com