Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1531384
JANUARY 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 23 " AI will revolutionize PCB design but will not replace the human PCB designer. " the disparity between available talent and the amount of work needed, and companies are being forced to do more with less. is means that not only PCB designers but also engineers from other disciplines are having to cross-pollinate multiple domains with the PCB design process. erefore, the evolving field of electronic systems design will demand advanced skills beyond traditional PCB design. ese include: • Proficiency in emerging tools: Mastering the core principles of PCB design along with mastering the respective CAD tools will be even more essential to obtain suc- cess in PCB design, as will expertise in AI- driven CAD platforms, 3D modeling, and simulation tools used to predict thermal, electromagnetic, and signal behavior early in the design process. • Programming and automation language skills: PCB designers must be familiar with programming languages like Python or the Tool Command Language (TCL) to automate workflows and enhance tool capabilities. • Cross-disciplinary collaboration: Designers will increasingly collaborate with experts from diverse fields, requiring strong communication, project manage- ment skills, and cloud-based collaboration. is not only includes internal team mem- bers, but also includes tight integration and collaboration with the external supply chain (i.e., fabrication, assembly, service providers, and component OEMs). Challenges Shaping the Field e future of PCB design will bring a host of new challenges, including: • Signal integrity and high-speed design: As devices operate at higher frequencies and data rates, maintaining signal integrity will become critical. Designers will need to address impedance mismatches, mini- mize crosstalk, signal integrity, and man- age electromagnetic interference. • Electromagnetic compatibility: e proliferation of wireless and IoT devices will necessitate compliance with stricter electromagnetic compatibility regulations. Advanced simulation tools will be crucial to identify and resolve interference during the design phase. • ermal management: With more power- ful and compact devices, managing heat will remain a major focus. Designers will need to integrate advanced cooling tech- niques, such as heat pipes, thermal vias, and novel materials with superior conductivity. • Miniaturization and integration: e demand for smaller, more powerful devices will drive the adoption of high- density interconnect techniques, flexible circuits, and 3D packaging. • Power delivery networks: Designers will face increasing challenges in maintaining power integrity as devices require higher current densities and lower voltages. The Role of AI and Automation AI will revolutionize PCB design but will not replace the human PCB designer. It will optimize the design process by completing a multitude of time-consuming mundane tasks, allowing the PCB designer to focus more on the potential opportunities to be more creative and innovative. AI is only as good as the guid-