IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1542698
10 I-CONNECT007 MAGAZINE I JANUARY 2026 begins with a design and a discussion with the designer/OEM/ordering party regarding the viabil- ity of building that board based on the provided information. It is based on the design that PCBs are priced, the supply chain verified, and lead times provided. Now, end customers begin to plan their time-to-market and ultimate profitability more concretely. Design and fabrication have always been inextri- cably linked, but our customers are demanding that we tighten the ranks and be more closely aligned than ever before to achieve the success they now require. The stakes have never been higher in terms of end-product reliability and cost. To that end, we excitedly introduce I-Connect007 Magazine, bringing our Design007 Magazine and PCB007 Magazine under a single title. It enables us to present a more comprehensive view of the PCB and interconnect lifecycle while maintaining the depth, technical rigor, and practical focus that you expect. Within these pages, you'll find the same trusted voices, along with perspectives from across the design and manufacturing spectrum. From stack- ups and HDI strategies to standards and materi- als, as well as defect reduction and the exploration of advanced manufacturing techniques, our goal remains unchanged: to provide information that is relevant, credible, and useful in your day-to-day work. As technology and manufacturing knowledge evolve, approaching these subjects—from the front end in PCB design to the back end through the factory floor—will provide a comprehensive picture of complex topics. In this debut issue, we asked designers, fabri- cators, and suppliers what they see for 2026 and beyond and you're likely to see your own thoughts reflected in their commentary. On the design side, you'll find articles ranging from the greatest chal- lenges to PCB designers to technical topics on 3D design and pattern plating, optimization to the IPC-2152 specification, and the evolution of flexible circuits. We also give you a preview of the Design Village at APEX EXPO. In PCB fabrication, fabricators and suppliers also look ahead at the challenges of adapting to changes we cannot yet see, whether that's in additive manu- facturing technology, building machines for the next phase of technology, or where PCB fabrication will lead in Europe. There are plenty of other tidbits throughout this issue as we now better reflect what's happening in our industry. Thank you for continuing to read, contribute, and engage with us. I look forward to exploring together where the industry is headed. I-CONNECT007 Marcy LaRont is the managing editor of I-Connect007 Maga- zine and executive director of IPC Publishing Group. Marcy started her career in PCBs in 1993 and brings a wide array of business experience and perspec- tive to I-Connect007. To contact Marcy, click here. M A RCY ' S M U S I N G S