Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1536171
e traditional PCB design process is oen time-consuming and labor-intensive. Routing a complex PCB layout can consume up to 30% of a designer's time, and addressing this issue is not straightforward. We have all encountered this scenario: You spend hours setting the con- straints and finally hit the Go button, only to be surprised by the lack of visual appeal and the obvious flaws in the result. Histor y shows a prevalent skepticism among PCB designers, many of whom prefer interactive routing—the setup process oen takes longer than manual routing the design. However, a modern autorouter offers a blend of automation and interactive control, allow- ing users to engage with the system when they 36 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I JUNE 2025 Beyond Design Feature Column by Barry Olney, IN-CIRCUIT DESIGN PTY LTD / AUSTRALIA The Metamorphosis of the PCB Router choose, thus providing a balance between independence and user inter vention. Unfor- tunately, many designers don't use their rout- er's full capabilities. Over the past 30 years, PCB routers have advanced significantly, evolving from basic dot- to-dot connectors to complex routing systems. Nevertheless, there is still ample opportunity for enhancement. In this month's column, I will delve into the latest advancements in artificial intelligence technology, particularly focusing on its implications for routing technology. Modern autorouters depend significantly on configuration and setup, utilizing Boolean algorithms, which means their effectiveness is directly tied to the skill of the person configur-