Bob Potock discusses Zuken's focus on digital engineering and a move away from traditional document-based processes to model-based designs. This change improves product definition, reduces design errors, and optimizes product parameters. Bob notes that the IPC-2581 standard is crucial for connecting designs, while AI enhances design efficiency.

As a field application engineer for a major Chinese PCB company, I see firsthand the challenges and, more excitingly, the trends shaping our industry. Talking to engineers, designers, and procurement teams worldwide, one thing is clear: PCBs have come a long way, but we’re barely scratching the surface of what’s possible. Here are 10 trends I believe will define our industry over the next decade.

Andy Shaughnessy and Gerry Partida of Summit Interconnect discuss the rising customer interest in sustainability within PCB design. Gerry points out that many designs neglect sustainability, resulting in low yields and higher costs. The conversation stresses the importance of adhering to PCB standards and collaborating with fabricators to tackle design challenges and enhance sustainability.

This month, I will discuss the most common design errors that fabricators see, typical areas of miscommunication between design and fabrication, and what designers can do to avoid putting their jobs on hold. This is no simple task, given the many things that can go wrong in flex circuit manufacturing, but many of these issues originate in the design process.