Below is the Unisoft free distance calculator for components on the PCB.
Using this calculator, you can identify component pins on unique reference
designators if the pins on the components are equal to or less than the
distance you specify, for example, 75 mils (0.075 inches).
To use the calculator:
First, in the Unisoft software, export a .FBA file, which will resemble
the sample below. This file contains all the XY data for the components and
pins on the PCB, enabling the software to compare each pin against all
others on the PCB.
7 - BDAT-9 U10
19 X -5.875 Y 0.300 T S
7 - BDAT-9 U2 3 X -5.338 Y 1.860 T S
7 -
BDAT-9 U2 35 X -5.063 Y 2.240 T S
8 - RD1 U10 58 X -4.925 Y 0.650 T S
8 - RD1 U5 8 X -4.325 Y 1.925 T S
8 - RD1 U9 38 X -5.350 Y 1.550 T S
To export the .FBA file, click 'EXPORT CAD', then click 'EXPORT STANDARD
CAD FILE [.FBA]', and save the file to the directory of your choice.
In the first box below, click the 'BROWSE / CHOOSE FILE' button, browse to the .FBA
file you wish to import, select the file, and then click 'OPEN'.
In
the second box, enter the distance you wish to check, in inches. If a large
number is used, the list produced can become very large, so it's preferred
to use a reasonably smaller number, usually under 0.20 inches.
Next, click the 'PROCESS FILE' button, and the
data, if any, will be displayed below.
The tool calculates the distance between closely spaced pins up to
the designated limit. For example, it lists all pins on unique reference
designators that are 150 mils (0.150 inches) apart or less, as shown in the
sample below.
Ref. Des. #1 Pin
X Y
Surface Ref.
Des. #2 Pin X
Y Surface
Distance Between Pins
U4
11 -5.475 2.240
T
U6
48 -5.388 2.240
T
0.0870
R41
1 -5.250
1.395 T
U9
35 -5.350 1.400
T
0.1001
C1
1 -4.800
0.320 T
U1
14 4.700
0.360 T
0.1077
If you wish to save the data, the default file name is
'outputData.txt' in the box below. You can change the name if desired, and then click the
'SAVE DATA TO FILE' button below.
The above calculator is provided for informational purposes only.
Unisoft is not responsible for any issues encountered with its usage.
DFM / DFA / DFT checks the Unisoft software supports:
Design for Manufacturing / Assembly / Test (DFM / DFA / DFT) for PCB
manufacturing is a very broad and complex subject area. DFM / DFA / DFT in PCB
electronics manufacturing is a comprehensive approach aimed at designing
PCBs in a way that makes them easier and more cost-effective to manufacture.
DFM / DFA / DFT checks focus on optimizing the design of a PCB to ensure it meets
manufacturing capabilities while minimizing potential issues that could
arise during the manufacturing process. The goal is to improve the overall
efficiency of production, reduce costs, and ensure the quality of the final
product. Most aspects of DFM / DFA / DFT are addressed during the design phase of
a printed circuit board (PCB), utilizing sophisticated software and
techniques provided by various CAD systems. These systems are essential for
designing PCBs, and there are hundreds of DFM / DFA / DFT criteria that need to be
checked. When done correctly, adequate DFM / DFA / DFT measures should be in place
before the assembly and testing of the board begin. The Unisoft software,
which imports various CAD files and bills of materials (BOM) from the PCB
CAD Design Systems, can assist in verifying that DFM / DFA / DFT has been properly
applied to the PCB design in certain areas. For more details on these methods, contact Unisoft directly
or use the online help tooltips provided.
Areas where
the Unisoft software may assist in verifying that DFM / DFA / DFT was executed properly:
Component Placement
Spacing: The Unisoft software cross checks that proper spacing between
components is in place on the PCB by testing the distance between pins for
unique reference
designators. This proper spacing
between components is normally done in the design phase of the PCB. Proper spacing
between components allows for efficient assembly and to
minimize issues during
soldering processes.
Test Probe Access
Nets: The Unisoft software cross checks that proper test probe assess is
available by analyzing each electrical net trace to ensure access for test
probes. This proper test
probe assess is normally
done in the design phase of the PCB. Proper test probe access minimizes
issues during testing phases of the manufacturing process in functionality
and quality assurance.
Ensuring that the PCB design supports comprehensive electrical testing is a critical
Design For Test (DFT) consideration that facilitate In-Circuit testing
(ICT), Flying Probe, Functional testing, etc.
Assembly and Fabrication Notes: Includes
detailed notes and specifications for the manufacturer regarding assembly
processes, material requirements, and any special
handling or processing needs. The Unisoft software creates process assembly
documents.
Supply Chain Considerations -
DFM / DFA / DFT can extend to include considerations of the supply chain, such as the
availability of components, lead times, and the impact of using
alternate parts.
Early consideration of these factors can help in avoiding delays and redesigns due to parts being unavailable or
having longer than expected lead times.
The Unisoft
software lookup by manufactures part number, etc. feature can aid in this
area.
