PCB Design - Help

Community PCB Design
1

Hello All,

I am brand new to PCB design and I came across this forum while browsing. It’s very interesting to meet members here sharing information on PCB designing. I came across few articles on web regarding DFM (Design for Manufacturability) methodology which helps designers incorporate manufacturing knowledge during the initial design process, preventing design errors early in the design process and reducing the need for costly corrections later. Also one of my friends suggested me that we have free DFM software’s offered by few PCB manufacturers which is of great help to PCB designers. Ever heard of DFM methodology? Thanks much!

2

It’s stuff like tracks being too narrow for a particular supplier, annular ring on pads being too small, and so on. The software I use checks for things like that automatically, but it has to be set up beforehand.

3

Hey Leon,

Thank you so much for your quick response. Actually I was looking out for PCB suppliers for ordering PCBs meant for my business.I have to check PCB designs before I send it for manufacturing so that I can prevent the design errors at the initial stage as it gets harder to locate points of error on circuit board later. Hence I am searching for vendors who can offer DFM check as complimentary service to their customers. Any information about this?

4

I think that several of them provide that sort of service, you’ll have to search for them. Those that supply their own PCB software, like Express PCB and Advanced Circuits, probably have their design rules built-in to the software. I just had a look at Advanced, they have a DFM checker on-line:

http://www.4pcb.com/free-pcb-file-check/

5

Hey Leon,

I really appreciate your quick response. I have checked the suppliers you have mentioned and they have software tools which helps in designing PCBs. But I am looking for an online tool which helps to check PCB design for errors. I am looking out for vendors who offer free DFM check. Can you help me on this?

6

The link I provided takes you to Advanced’s DFM checker.

7

Hey Leon,

I got that link. Thanks.

8

Hey Leon,

Can you suggest me few more suppliers who offer DFM check as complimentary service to customers so that I can compare the rates and select the supplier who offer me best rates.

9

That was one I just happened to remember. You’ll have to search for them yourself.