SierraConnect

Don't you hate it when that happens? If only there was a solution, like... https://lnkd.in/gAAq9pAr #pcb #meme #pcbdesign #pcbdesigner #pcbmanufacturer #community

Ever wonder what happens during #PCBassembly? 🤔 From bare board to functional device, the #PCBA process is a fascinating journey of precision and #technology. It's not just about slapping #components on a board! You'd think, right? Did you know the very first step, #PCBdesign for assembly, can make or break the entire process? Catching design hiccups early saves time, money, and ensures a smoother, more reliable final product. Then comes the intricate dance of #SMT and through-hole assembly, where tiny components are placed with incredible accuracy and soldered to perfection. And let's not forget the crucial inspections (AOI, AXI, FPT) that act as quality checkpoints throughout. Want to learn more about each of these steps and why they're so critical in creating the electronics we rely on every day? Click the link below: https://lnkd.in/gfB_4caE

PCB GLOSSARY: Dielectric A dielectric or substrate is an insulating material used in #PCBs to isolate conductive layers (signal, ground, and power planes). Dielectric materials influence signal propagation speed, energy storage, and thermal stability. Common dielectric materials include FR-4, PTFE, polyimide, and ceramic-based materials. Each type offers different #electrical and #mechanical properties suited to specific applications, such as high-frequency, high-temperature, or flexible #circuits. See the full glossary here: https://lnkd.in/g_dhVg5F

Why does material selection matter so much in #RF PCB design? Because your base material isn’t just holding your traces—it’s part of the circuit. In #radiofrequency applications, the laminate influences propagation speed, phase shift, signal loss, and even how passive structures (like embedded inductors or capacitors) behave. Small variances in Dk, Df, dielectric thickness, or copper roughness can lead to big performance issues. That’s why RF materials are engineered differently from HSD ones. They offer consistent dielectric properties across thicknesses, reduced resin content variability, and are electrically tested for stability and repeatability. The takeaway? In RF, tight tolerances aren't just nice to have—they're the name of the game. We give you the link to the full webinar recording here: https://lnkd.in/gxDmeiYg #pcb #pcbdesign #signalintegrity Isola Group Alexander Ippich

“So what are the guidelines for a good grounding system?” “In two minutes?” Ignacio de Mendizábal 📡 discussed the fundamentals of grounding for high-speed #PCBdesign, emphasizing the importance of understanding whether a system is AC, DC, analog, digital, or mixed-signal. He referenced Daniel Beeker’s point (taught by Ralph Morrison… It’s all about the space…) that at high speeds, design isn’t just about electricity but about managing #electromagnetic fields. Ignacio stressed that proper grounding involves carefully designed ground planes, controlled #impedance, and ensuring signal return paths are well-defined to prevent unintended radiation. He explained that #EMC issues arise when energy escapes the system due to uncontrolled return paths, making thoughtful #PCB layout critical for minimizing #EMI. Watch Trace Talks EP 8 on avoiding EMC nightmares in PCB design: https://lnkd.in/gq-kGW_t

Well, we only had one question in this week's AMA but what a tough one it was! 😅 We've had a couple of replies but if we have any #aerospace engineers here, feel free to jump in. See the answers in this thread: https://lnkd.in/gNi7DhUw #rocket #engineering #pcb #pcba

Missed the recent Sierra webinars with EMA Design Automation and Isola Group? We’ve compiled the best Q&As! Here are the questions: ► For DDR4, how concerned do you need to be about crosstalk between data lines of the same byte? ► Do we need back drilling for #DDR4 or #DDR5? ► Can you confirm that there's no maximum length limits as long as they are matched in length? ► What oxide treatment processes are recommended to reduce the impact of additional roughness from the lamination process? ► For surface finish, do you have comparison plots for lower frequencies like 1-10 GHz? Watch our webinar recordings here: https://lnkd.in/gR_T5ZU2 #pcb #pcbdesign #pcbmanufacturer #pcbmanufacturing

Anyone else routing their way out of a Friday afternoon? Before you exit the building or close your laptop, check out our upcoming classes! ► #EMI & #EMC by Kenneth Wyatt https://lnkd.in/gWCqEMne ► #Heat management by Keven Coates https://lnkd.in/gahQrDNi #pcb #meme #electronics #sierraconnect #forum

Join our next Ask Me Anything about #PCBA processes where you can ask us questions on: ► #PCB DFA ► #Components ► Quality and testing ► And much more!  Post questions on forum before: April 2nd #forum #community #pcbdesign #pcbassembly

Decoupling capacitors are crucial for #powerintegrity, but how do you approach their selection and placement in your #PCB designs? Do you follow specific guidelines for value selection, proximity to ICs, or layer stack-up considerations? Let's share some tips on the forum, shall we? https://lnkd.in/dYaxGgH5 #pcbdesign #decouplingcapacitors #engineering