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February 5, 2016 | Calumet ElectronicsEstimated reading time: 1 minute
PCBs are more complex and high-tech than ever. For example, current component density propels circuit board compression and complex design attributes, which elevate the potential for failure and downtime. By implementing sophisticated design for manufacturability (DFM) checks early in the PCB design phase, Calumet Electronics saves customers from costly, time-consuming problems that would manifest during prototyping and production.
DFM validates design integrity and reveals constraints in order to optimize yields, minimize surprises and facilitate program deadlines. All of this is critical to promote first pass success of advanced PCB designs. The use of DFM can reveal design flaws early in the process to rectify limitations or constraints. DFM also preempts lackluster yields and predicts product failure. An endless variety of suspect design features that may threaten product integrity are also revealed by DFM. Potential defects may include copper to copper density, hole to pad, drill to plane layer, improper material or stack-up specification, plating aspect ratio, blind or buried via configuration, and many more.
“Potential defects and design constraints are very common in PCB design,” said Mike Kadlec, vice president of corporate development. “Component architecture, product compression and limited real estate contribute to design complexity and routing constraints, driving the potential for failure and the subsequent need for preemptive analysis and collaboration. The DFM tools and related automation at Calumet set the stage to minimize surprise and ensure the desired outcome.”
According to David Cusumano, vice president of operations for Saline Lectronics, Inc., “Calumet Electronics goes the extra mile with their DFM checks, supporting our engineering team to actualize DFM suggestions in real time. Their skilled engineering team, DFM automation, and communication style foster and contribute to timely resolution of outstanding issues. The Calumet team takes the time to fully understand our manufacturing processes, which has made them an invaluable partner to us."
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