There are several methods to check the spacing distance between components using Unisoft software:
Automatic Identification:
For example, you can
automatically identify component pins on unique reference designators if
the pins on the components are 75 mils or closer to each other.
Visual Inspection:
Components can also be
visually inspected on the display for spacing.
Measurement Tool:
The measurement tool can be
used to manually check distances.
The preferred automatic identification method involves using the Unisoft .FBA file. This file contains all the XY data for the components and pins on the PCB, allowing the software to compare each pin against all other pins on the board. [Click for details.]
Using the .FBA file, the software calculates the distance between closely spaced pins up to the limit you designate. For example, it can list all pins on unique reference designators that are 150 mils apart or less (see sample that follows).
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
Design for Manufacturing/Assembly/Test (DFM/DFA/DFT) for PCB
Manufacturing
Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, and Test
(DFM/DFA/DFT) for PCB manufacturing is a broad and complex subject area.
This comprehensive approach is aimed at designing printed circuit boards
(PCBs) in a manner that facilitates easier and more cost-effective
manufacturing.
DFM/DFA/DFT checks focus on optimizing the PCB design to align with manufacturing capabilities while minimizing potential issues that could arise during production. The primary goals are to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure the quality of the final product.
Most aspects of DFM/DFA/DFT are addressed during the PCB design phase, utilizing sophisticated software and techniques provided by various CAD systems. These systems are essential for PCB design, with hundreds of DFM/DFA/DFT criteria to be verified. When applied correctly, adequate DFM/DFA/DFT measures ensure that potential manufacturing, assembly, and testing issues are mitigated before production begins.
Unisoft software, which imports various CAD files and Bills of Materials (BOM) from PCB CAD design systems, assists in verifying that DFM/DFA/DFT principles have been effectively applied to certain aspects of PCB design. For more detailed information on these methods, contact Unisoft directly or refer to 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 maintained on the PCB by measuring the distance between pins
for unique
reference designators. This spacing is
typically addressed during the design phase of the PCB. Proper component
spacing enables efficient assembly and minimizes issues during soldering
processes.
Test Probe Access
Nets: The Unisoft software verifies that proper test probe access is
available by analyzing each electrical net trace to ensure accessibility for
test probes. This is also typically
addressed during
the PCB design phase. Ensuring adequate test probe access minimizes issues
during the testing phase of manufacturing, including functionality and
quality assurance. This
is a critical Design for Test
(DFT) consideration that facilitates In-Circuit Testing (ICT), Flying Probe
Testing, Functional Testing, and more.
PCB Test Probe Force
Analysis Visualization: Analyzes stresses on the PCB induced by
test probes that press into the PCB, with consideration for offset vectoring
via the placement of push fingers.
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 to facilitate this.
Supply Chain Considerations:
Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for
Testability (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 helps avoid delays and redesigns caused by unavailable parts or
longer-than-expected
lead times. The Unisoft
software's lookup feature by manufacturer part number, among other
capabilities, can significantly aid in this area.
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