EMA Releases 'The Hitchhiker’s Guide to PCB Design'

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

EMA Design Automation launches its new and free eBook titled, "The Hitchhiker’s Guide to PCB Design", a timely and much-needed resource for electrical engineers seeking to understand the complexities involved in PCB design.

“The role of the electrical engineer in PCB design is changing,” said Manny Marcano, president and CEO of EMA. “EE’s are now being tasked with ownership of the full PCB design process from concept through manufacturing. Unfortunately, many of the skills and knowledge needed is not taught in the classroom leaving new engineers unprepared for the responsibilities being asked of them. The goal of this eBook is to empower the newer generation of PCB design engineers and enable them to take on this additional role knowing they have the foundation required to make sound design decisions.”

"The Hitchhiker’s Guide to PCB Design" is a play off the original Douglas Adams novel and offers a cheeky, easy-to-understand dive into the PCB design and manufacturing process. The eBook takes the reader on the journey of Ian, a new EE getting his footing in PCB design. In Ian’s first project, he makes some major mistakes which produces a design that cannot be manufactured. However, thanks to the input and advice of several industry veterans, Ian is given a crash course on how to design a successful, manufacturable board and assembly.

With over 100 pages of real-world, actionable tips from experienced industry professionals and several checklists, detailed graphics, and links to additional resources, engineers are provided with the foundational knowledge needed for design success, no matter what CAD software they may use.

This eBook will help engineers learn how to identify and communicate effectively with key stakeholders, set up a successful design workflow, and avoid common design missteps, addressing such items as:

• How to create a robust and manufacturable PCB layout beyond routing the rats
• Who your project stakeholders are and why their involvement is essential for design success
• Why it's important to incorporate DFX (Design for Excellence) and the many topics it covers
• Design best practices you need to know and more

About EMA Design Automation, Inc.

EMA Design Automation is a trailblazer in product development solutions offering a complete range of EDA tools, PLM integrations, services, training, and technical support. EMA is a Cadence Channel Partner serving all of North America. EMA develops Ultra Librarian, TimingDesigner, CircuitSpace, CIP, EDABuilder, and a host of custom solutions to enhance the OrCAD products, and all are distributed through a worldwide network of value added resellers. EMA is a privately held corporation headquartered in Rochester, New York. For more information, click here.