Design for manufacturing (DFM) is an essential aspect of the new product introduction (NPI) process, and PCB design is a...

Gerber files have long been the industry standard for PCB design and manufacturing data. However, with the increasing complexity of modern designs, Gerber files have become less effective in conveying all the necessary data required for manufacturing. ODB++ is a newer format that was developed specifically to address the shortcomings of Gerber files. ODB++ is a comprehensive format that includes all the necessary data for manufacturing, including component placement, drill files, and manufacturing details such as the thickness of the PCB and the type of solder mask just to mention a few.

DFM and DFA are relevant to almost any product be it assembling bicycles where primarily the product is mechanical components to electronic devices such as cell phones, routers, and computers which require both mechanical and electrical components. The primary focus of this blog will be PCB Design through PCB Fabrication and PCB Assembly within the electronic realm and how it relates to DFM and DFA.