When you are given the task of designing any sort of tech product, you need to make sure that you have the right software packages. This is especially true for those tasked with PCB design as this can be a vital cog in any sort of product that requires a circuit board.
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To help you with this, we have put together a guide of the most important features to look out for in your PCB design software. Keep reading to find out more.
1] Parts Search
One of the most important features that you should look for in your PCB design software is a parts search feature. This will allow you to easily search for any components that you need and make the whole PCB design process a lot easier. When you can use this, you’ll save time on using parts that are unavailable and will see the benefits in no time at all.
2] BOM Management
No one wants to have to figure out their Bill Of Materials at the end of the project as this can be quite complicated. This is why you should make sure that your PCB design software has real-time BOM management.
This will allow you to make sure that your BOM is kept up to date and it will save you a lot of hassle at the end of the project.
3] 3D Design
In 2019, you’ll find that most PCB design software packages offer 3D design features, but you should still make sure to double check. 3D design features can really improve the way in which you design your PCB and can help to make sure that it is working properly before manufacture.
Take a look at the 3D design features that are available when choosing your PCB design software. For example, Altium’s software for PCB design has a 3D design option which gives you a schematic design view of your board and a 3D simulation.
4] Printed Electronics
The next thing that you should look out for in a PCB design software package is printed electronics features. The best PCB design software will allow you to actualize any sort of layer less design by allowing you to print your circuit board onto a substrate. Make sure to look out for this when choosing your PCB design software.
5] Simulations
The final but arguably most important feature to look out for in your PCB design software is the simulation feature. If you PCB design software has this, you will find that you can test out your design extensively before heading to the manufacturing stage.
Simulations can save you a lot of time and money in the longrun so make sure to check that your new software has this.
Final Verdict
When you are designing any sort of tech product, you need to make sure that the PCB works as effectively as possible. To do this, you should look out for all of these important features in the PCB design software to create the best possible product. Follow our advice and you should be happy with the results.
