➀ DesignSpark PCB is a free, professional-grade tool enabling seamless circuit design to PCB layout, catering to engineers, educators, and hobbyists alike;
➁ The latest version (DesignSpark PCB 13) offers enhanced precision with features like centered component origins and improved graphics;
➂ Its intuitive interface, unlimited design capabilities, and integration with RS Components' library simplify PCB creation without cost barriers.
➀ CircuitMaker is a free PCB design tool offering professional features like 16-layer support, 3D visualization, and collaborative cloud-based workflows, powered by Altium's engine;
➁ The 2.3.0 update introduced KiCAD/P-CAD import, Nexar API component search, and integration with Autodesk Fusion 360 via Altium CoDesigner;
➂ While praised for accessibility and community focus, it lacks local file storage and has limited compatibility with non-Altium formats.
➀ Altium Designer provides a unified PCB design platform integrating schematic design, 3D layout, SPICE simulation, and manufacturing file generation;
➁ The software offers academic licenses for students but requires paid subscriptions for professional/commercial use;
➂ Unique features include cloud collaboration via Altium 365, multi-board support, and Windows-exclusive operation.
➀ Bolt Industries releases two interactive PCB-based reference books ($37 each) focused on DC circuits and LED/transistor applications;
➁ Each "book" features functional circuits powered via USB-C, with buttons, lights, and sound for hands-on learning;
➂ Praised by EEVblog, the designs target electronics education and practical experimentation.
➀ Microchip's reference design uses antenna diversity with the AT86RF231 radio transceiver to mitigate multipath interference in wireless networks;
➁ It enables autonomous antenna switching during signal synchronization, improving reliability without additional power or hardware;
➂ Provides full design resources including schematics and PCB layouts for engineers to implement in diverse environments.
➀ Dr. Atul Lavand from Thermo Fisher Scientific discusses the application of molecular spectroscopy in the semiconductor and electronics industry, particularly in PCB manufacturing and failure analysis.
➁ He highlights the importance of techniques like FTIR and Raman spectroscopy in identifying materials and contaminants in PCBs, aiding in process optimization and defect prevention.
➂ The interview also touches upon the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing spectral interpretation and future product innovations, along with the company's approach to supporting startups and SMEs in India.
➀ Siemens Digital Industries Software has acquired DownStream Technologies, a provider of manufacturing data preparation tools for PCB design.
➁ The acquisition aims to expand Siemens' presence in the small and medium-sized business (SMB) market.
➂ DownStream Technologies' CAM350 suite of tools allows customers to verify and automatically prepare PCB design data for fabrication, reducing errors and streamlining the transition from design to production.
➀ The IPC, the industry association for printed circuits and electronics assembly, laments the lack of investment in the US PCB industry on the anniversary of President Biden issuing the Presidential Determination 2023-06.
➁ The directive signed by President Trump in 2017 aimed to assess the US defense industrial base and identified a critical technology shortfall.
➂ The IPC expresses its commitment to working with the administration and policymakers to ensure America's defense electronics capabilities are secure and resilient.
➀ This article discusses a reference design for extending SPI communication range using LVDS interface, which improves signal quality, reduces EMI, and maintains robustness against noise.
➁ The design utilizes TI's TIDA-060017 reference design, featuring LVDS driver and receiver modules, to transmit SPI signals over longer distances.
➂ The solution offers advantages such as enhanced speed, lower power consumption, and compatibility with a variety of industrial and medical applications.
➀ An AOI module named Multi Line Assist has been developed by GOEPEL electronic to assist in Through-Hole Technology (THT) assembly. This module provides automated guidance, real-time error detection, and verification for precise component placement.
➁ The module uses a 47-megapixel camera and flexible LED lighting to inspect large areas up to 660 mm x 450 mm. It can detect component presence, position, color, and read barcodes, 2D codes, and text.
➂ Multi Line Assist integrates with existing MES systems and can be used standalone or integrated into existing assembly tables. It aims to improve efficiency, accuracy, and traceability in PCB production processes.
➀ GOEPEL electronic推出了一款名为Multi Line Assist的新AOI模块，旨在优化THT（通孔技术）组装过程并实现实时错误检测。
➁ Multi Line Assist提供逐步指导和实时检查，确保在焊接前的精确性。该系统通过投影放置信息来辅助操作员进行精确装配，并使用集成的PILOT软件检查错误。
➂ Multi Line Assist具有47MP图像捕捉单元、可检查面积高达660mm x 450mm的特点，并支持多种分辨率选项。此外，它还能够读取条形码、2D代码和文本，提高THT组装的质量。
➀ Traditional magnification systems are insufficient for PCB inspection and rework, lacking necessary magnification levels and an efficient way to document work.
➁ Advanced technologies are transforming PCB inspection, focusing on identifying hidden flaws and enhancing manufacturing standards.
➂ Stereo zoom microscopes with ESD-safe properties and high-resolution cameras improve the efficiency and reliability of PCB inspection processes.
➀ Würth Elektronik Circuit Board Technology has finalised plans to close its Schopfheim PCB production site in Switzerland.
➁ The closure was announced in October and has reached an agreement with the management and works council.
➂ Products previously manufactured in Schopfheim will be produced at other Würth Elektronik locations in Germany.
