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Beyond the Rulebook
What happens when the rule book is no longer useful, or worse, was never written in the first place? In today’s fast-moving electronics landscape, we’re increasingly asked to design and build what has no precedent, no proven path, and no tidy checklist to follow. This is where “Design for Invention” begins.
March Madness
From the growing role of AI in design tools to the challenge of managing cumulative tolerances, these articles in this issue examine the technical details, design choices, and manufacturing considerations that determine whether a board works as intended.
Looking Forward to APEX EXPO 2026
I-Connect007 Magazine previews APEX EXPO 2026, covering everything from the show floor to the technical conference. For PCB designers, we move past the dreaded auto-router and spotlight AI design tools that actually matter.
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April Issue of I-Connect007 Magazine: Beyond the Rulebook
April 14, 2026 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamEstimated reading time: 1 minute
What happens when the old rulebook no longer applies—and all that’s left is new ground to break? Today’s designers and fabricators are being asked to build what has no precedent, no proven path, and no tidy checklist. This is where design for invention begins.
In this month’s I-Connect007 Magazine, we asked PCB designers, fabricators, and suppliers what it really means to operate without a rulebook. Their perspectives vary, especially between seasoned designers and experienced fabricators, but a common thread emerges: progress depends on pushing boundaries and finding a way forward, even when the path isn’t clear. In many ways, this mindset has always been part of what we do, whether we’ve called it that or not.
Hear from experts including John Watson, Kelly Dack, Stephen V. Chavez, Kristin Moyer, Anaya Vardya, Ventec, Mike Carano, Vern Solberg, Matt Stevenson, and more. They’re tackling the challenges head on and making bold assumptions about the future of design and manufacturing.
Testimonial
"The I-Connect007 team is outstanding—kind, responsive, and a true marketing partner. Their design team created fresh, eye-catching ads, and their editorial support polished our content to let our brand shine. Thank you all! "
Sweeney Ng - CEE PCBSuggested Items
When Quality Is Personal: The Human Stakes Behind Electronics Reliability
05/06/2026 | Kelly DackIn electronics manufacturing, quality is often discussed in terms of specifications, standards, and process controls, but as industry veteran Doug Pauls reminds us, the stakes are far more human. In this conversation, Doug, a recipient of the Global Electronics Association’s Hall of Fame Award, draws on more than four decades of experience to illuminate the real-world consequences of reliability, where even a single defect can carry profound implications. He brings into sharp focus why quality isn’t just a metric, but a responsibility shared by everyone on the manufacturing floor.
Meet Emerging Engineers: Patrick Owen and Eric Mickenbecker, Summit Interconnect
05/05/2026 | Michelle Te, I-Connect007Patrick Owen and Eric Mickenbecker both work for Summit Interconnect, and are in their second year of the Global Electronics Association’s Emerging Engineer Program with mentor Brian Chislea. They stopped by the I-Connect007 booth at APEX EXPO and shared a bit of their story with me. Patrick has worked at the Hollister, California, plant since 2018, while Eric has been at the Chicago site since 2023. Like many of their peers, they came to the electronics industry from different paths, but are both excited about making an impact.
Nolan’s Notes: Our Spotlight on North America
05/05/2026 | Nolan Johnson -- Column: Nolan's NotesIn this issue of SMT007 Magazine, we wrap up our electronics world tour with a final stop in the United States and Canada, where we look at the challenges, opportunities, and geopolitical dynamics affecting the market today. What makes American electronics unique? Key U.S. administration policy decisions, like tariffs, are significantly affecting electronics manufacturing. Others, such as the current conflict with Iran and the associated closures of the Strait of Hormuz, affect the raw materials that feed our supply chain.
PCBAA, AAM Take on the Fight to Rebuild U.S. Manufacturing in New Documentary
05/05/2026 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007Throughout most of the 20th century, manufacturing was central to the American Dream of providing stable jobs and pathways to upward mobility. Today, more than 80% of global electronics manufacturing capacity resides in China and greater Asia, raising serious concerns about supply chain resilience and national security.
May SMT007 Magazine: Putting North America in Focus
05/04/2026 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamA North America spotlight exploring tariffs, reshoring, AI demand, and supply chain challenges. Plus, insights on cybersecurity, workforce development, and the evolving role of U.S. electronics manufacturing. Read this issue of SMT007 Magazine now and see where the region is headed.