A big topic in the last few years has been the occurrence of (and the damage caused by) the growth of tin whiskers in high-profile and high-reliability products.  Elusive, often misunderstood, and difficult to prevent; tin whiskers have posed significant problems.  In fact, even just two weeks ago TechEye.net was speculating that tin whiskers may be behind the massive Toyota recalls. Whether the whiskers are out to race cars, or are turning into conductive plasma arcs capable of carrying hundreds of amps, it is clear that they are a force …

A few weeks ago Morgan and I were doing a client visit, and had set up a table in the cafeteria of a large customer during lunchtime. It was a great opportunity for those who we currently work with to come and say hi, and also for co-workers to have an opportunity to learn about our services. We had a great time, and there was a lot of interest and great dialogue for the three hours we were there.
There was a particular moment, however, which really encouraged me …

Two weeks from now, in the heart of the Silicon Valley, many of the top design firms and printed circuit board professionals will be attending DesignCon 2010.  Held at the Santa Clara Convention Center from February 1st-4th, this show promises to be a very valuable event for many.  Already the line-up of exhibitors is impressive, with exhibitors ranging from small consulting firms such as The Bogatin Group, to large, multi-national companies like Tyco Electronics.   See the full list here.
I have spoken with several individuals in the last few weeks …

It has been interesting to read both the 2009 “end of the year recaps” and the 2010 predictions for the printed circuit board (PCB) industry as we have drawn close to the New Year.  Most have been quite comprehensive and informative, yet I hope to add value by also providing some impressions, critiques and praises.  Many refer to me as the fresh, young kid… and so it is my hope that I can provide a unique and valuable perspective.
The year 2009 has been an intense crash-course and immersion into the …

Do you think you have what it takes to make a mark in the field of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design?  For the engineering minded and artistically oriented, PCB design is a fascinating field where you can achieve both financial success and fulfillment in doing something that you love.  Whether you’re just dipping your toes for the first time, or you are a seasoned veteran; I hope to provide some insight and encouragement.  A few accomplished men were gracious enough to speak with me and share their thoughts, stories, and …

I had the opportunity to sit down with Eric Austin, an Electrical Engineer with Skyworks Solutions, Inc this past week.  He is an avid photographer, cyclist, musician  and HAM Radio enthusiast.  We had a great time, and I would love to take a minute or so to tell you a little more about him.  This is the story behind Eric’s Resume.
Eric grew up in Swampscott, MA – 25 minutes or so north of Boston.  As a boy scout he became fascinated with Ham Radios, went on to get licensed, and …

A San Francisco Native, but Southern California raised, John Cardone has experienced the westernmost land of Promise that so many of us only dream about.   Such a geographic setting is perfect for a man who is passionate about natural beauty, backpacking, and trekking into the wilderness alone to enjoy the quiet that only solitude can provide.  Living now in Grenada, CA (less than 40 miles from the California/Oregon border), he and his wife, Darla, operate Forward Farms breeding and raising registered Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) horses.  They also raise registered, grass …

At HotPCB we’re really to serve those who are involved in the PCB industry, particularly Designers.  In my time talking with various people, I have come to realize that a section dedicated to featuring designers would be a great addition.  The goal is to weekly feature a designer, and to develop an archive of Biographies.
Designers have started contacting me concerning this project, and the enthusiasm is contagious.  Many have asked me to describe how it will work, what type of biographies we are looking for, how it will help them, …

Windows up and Radio off, I made my way towards Waltham, MA this past Wednesday morning.  Silently I attempted to prepare myself for my first trade show.  This was my first opportunity to represent my company face-to-face with potential and current customers.  Having never been to a show, I was unsure what to expect.  Although anxious, there was no fear – just uninformed anticipation for a long day ahead.
It was instantly clear that although competitive, most vendors shared a sense of camaraderie, and were open to talking with me and …

Altium Goes for the Masses
Breaking the EDA Mold… Again

by Kevin Morris, FPGA and Structured ASIC Journal

This week, Altium is introducing a new model for the purchase of electronic design tools, in an attempt to create a grass-roots revolution that will change the nature of the electronic design automation (EDA) market.  For the past several years, Altium has been marching to a different drummer – focusing on an integrated desktop design tool suite that spans the gamut of electronic design from system-level specification to board and …