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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.
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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.
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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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EMA Partners with Berkeley SkyDeck
April 16, 2019 | EMA Design AutomationEstimated reading time: 2 minutes
EMA Design Automation has announced a partnership with Berkeley SkyDeck. This partnership provides OrCAD software to SkyDeck startups for use in the design and development of printed circuit board (PCB) electronics within their innovative products. “OrCAD is ideal for companies just starting out because it is easy to learn, yet offers a professional level toolset used by leading electronics companies around the world,” said Manny Marcano, president and CEO of EMA. “And because OrCAD is a highly scalable solution for PCB design, it will help set these startups up for sustained success as they evolve into the tech giants, we hope they become.”
Since EMA’s inception, they have been committed to helping provide future engineers and startups with the tools they need to be successful. EMA supports the student community by providing universities with the OrCAD software students require to not only complete course work and labs, but also prepare them for academic and career success. Using the OrCAD software provides engineering graduates with knowledge of state-of-the-art tools and techniques, giving them the foundation required to be successful in this competitive landscape.
As an accelerator program within UC Berkeley, Berkeley SkyDeck combines the consulting know-how of traditional accelerators with the vast resources of its research university, creating a powerful environment for startups. Berkeley SkyDeck hosts over 200 startups each year and works hand-in-hand to help with product strategy, team building, and customer introductions. “Skydeck’s mission is to help startup ventures bring new and innovative products to market,” said Bree Cahill, director of partnerships at Berkeley SkyDeck. “partnering with companies like EMA gives these startups access to the tools and expertise they need to make their ideas a reality.”
“Due to its popularity, OrCAD is a common teaching tool in universities so many of these startups will already be familiar with the toolset and capabilities,” added Marcano. “This partnership with SkyDeck will extend that into the product development phase, providing access to professional-level design tools for these startups.”
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. Visit EMA at www.ema-eda.com for more information.
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Simon Khesin - Schmoll MaschinenSuggested Items
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