Completed PCBs

Optimizing PCB DFM Guidelines

Typical DFM checklists assume the use of legacy DFM formats. In a world where much of our data transfer is becoming intelligent and seamless, why are we relying on designs from 60 years ago?

Making Parts Part of Manufacturing Driven Design

When it comes to PCB assembly level MDD, many designers have not concerned themselves with the component manufacturing Bill of Material (BOM). Designers work from a CAD library that has component libraries associated with internal part numbers (IPN) their company uses. The CAD Design Rule Checking software uses those CAD library shapes for its analysis and even, in some cases, the avoidance of where components are placed. There is nothing wrong conceptually with this mentality. However, like all things, the details matter.

detectives investigate DFM within a PCB design

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Bowties Part III

Previously… People often say ‘better late than never’, but I’ve never heard my boss say that. After much difficulty in…

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Bowties Part II

Previously… After receiving our boards and having them pass inspection I breathed a sigh of relief as this project was…

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Bowties Part I

It was just another Monday at the office. I had released a design I had been working on for four…

Valor Part Library PCB footprint

Valor Parts Library: What You Need to Know

Validating the PCB footprint with a comprehensive component library Are you familiar with the Valor Parts Library? Whether you are…

Valor Parts Library

Valor Parts Library: What You Need to Know

Are you familiar with the Valor Parts Library? Whether you are experienced with VPL or this is your first exposure,…