Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1533085
MARCH 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 41 When le to the fabricator, clear guidelines should still be communicated to ensure com- patibility with the assembly process. e goal is to have an optimized bi-directional hand-off process between engineer and fabricator, and then with assembly. Building a Collaborative Relationship Effective communication goes beyond tech- nical files and specifications. Building a strong designer-fabricator relationship is extremely important and involves: • Know your suppliers: Knowing their capa- bilities, type of manufacturer they are (pro- totype, high volume production, or both), the level of quality they produce consis- tently, and their industry reputation is key. • Early collaboration: Engage fabricators at the earliest project kick-off stage and throughout the design phase to leverage their expertise. is collaboration should be bi-directional and include a feedback loop back to engineering so that the overall pro- cess continues to evolve and be optimized. • Manufacturing-driven design: rough- out the design process confirm the board conforms to your manufacturer's pro- cess capabilities and collaborate when enhanced technology is needed. • Open dialogue: Encourage regular discussions to clarify ambiguities and address potential issues, new technolo- gies, and manufacturing methodologies and capabilities. • Feedback loops: Request feedback on manufacturability to improve future designs. • Standardization: Implement industry best practices or establish standard practices and preferred materials to streamline col- laboration. Conclusion Speaking the same language as your PCB fab- ricator is not just an investment in the success of your project, but also a major step in estab- lishing a quality, long-term relationship with the highest potential return on investment. By aligning engineering design intent and manu- facturing outputs with fabrication requirements and capabilities, designers can minimize errors and delays, reduce costs, and accelerate time to market. e key is proactive upfront collabora- tion and bi-directional communication, metic- ulous attention to detail, and a commitment to multidomain collaboration that includes exter- nal stakeholders (fabrications and assembly) as well. Together, designers and fabricators can turn innovative ideas into high-quality, manu- facturable products. DESIGN007 Stephen V. Chavez is principal technical product marketing manager for Siemens EDA, and chair of PCEA.