issues in PCB design
In PCB design, the smallest details can have a large impact on manufacturing. Getting these details right the first time is essential for efficient production and a high-quality finished product. The good news is that most of these issues can be easily addressed with careful consideration to design for manufacture (DFM) philosophies. These best practices will help ensure your circuit boards are built with quality and efficiency to reduce the cost of errors and wasted time and materials.
DFM is a process that takes into account the manufacturing capabilities of a PCB, allowing for easy production without sacrificing quality or functionality. By considering factors like optimal material selection, strategic component placement, efficient trace routing, and panelization to maximize yield, designers can make sure that their designs are highly manufacturable.
A key to success in a pcb project is having an open line of communication with your manufacturer. A manufacturer can provide valuable feedback that a designer may not think of or have the ability to see in their CAD software. This can help ensure the best possible result for the finished product, which is not only a good thing for the designer but also the end-users of the product.
How do you address manufacturability issues in PCB design?
For example, a manufacturer might be able to tell that the circuit board was designed with the wrong materials for the final application’s environment. This can lead to components and solder joints that break due to thermal stress or exposure to harsh conditions. An experienced contract manufacturer will be able to identify these problems in the design and recommend a solution that minimizes these risks.
Another common issue is having the incorrect size for a component. For example, placing a ceramic capacitor too close to the edge of the board can cause it to crack. This problem can be minimized by making sure the designer calls out the proper sized capacitor at the front-end engineering stage. Finally, using the wrong finish on a part can be expensive for both the contract manufacturer and the customer. A simple change to the use of RoHS-compliant hot air solder leveling can save time and money while ensuring a high-quality result.
These issues can be easily solved by using DFM principles throughout the design process. Choosing a reputable EDA software platform that incorporates DFM technology like OrCAD PCB Designer with DesignTrueTM In-Design DFM can help ensure that these issues are resolved before sending the design to a manufacturer for fabrication.
Addressing these issues early and engaging with a knowledgeable vendor will improve the chance of a smooth, successful production process. This can lead to fewer respins and lower costs, which will benefit everyone involved in the production of your circuit boards. In addition, working with a manufacturer that provides timely and competent technical support can help you avoid issues that can be costly to fix. To learn more about how you can get the most out of your PCB design process, contact us. We can provide you with a free quote for your next project.