100 episodes

The PCB Design Podcast covers the latest news, updates, and technology in the electronics design industry. Everything from routing, circuit simulation, to high-speed design, and finding circuit board manufacturers and component parts.

OnTrack: The PCB Design Podcast Altium LLC.

    • News
    • 5.0 • 20 Ratings

The PCB Design Podcast covers the latest news, updates, and technology in the electronics design industry. Everything from routing, circuit simulation, to high-speed design, and finding circuit board manufacturers and component parts.

    The Critical Shift: Bridging the Generational Gap in PCB Design

    The Critical Shift: Bridging the Generational Gap in PCB Design

    In this episode of the OnTrack Podcast, host Zach Peterson speaks with Cory Blaylock, Director of Workforce Partnerships at IPC, in a profound discussion on the looming generational gap within the PCB design and electronics manufacturing spaces, as well as what those industries might be able to do about it. As one generation of seasoned experts nears the end of their careers, the urgency to cultivate a new wave of talent becomes ever more critical. This episode delves deep into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in bridging this divide.
     
    Key Highlights:
    The Generational Shift: Explore the evolving landscape of PCB design and how the departure of experienced professionals is creating an urgent need for fresh talent.
    IPC's Role: Discover how IPC is spearheading initiatives to develop the workforce of tomorrow through innovative apprenticeship programs approved by the US Department of Labor.
    The Journey from Classroom to Industry: Cory shares his unique transition from education to a pivotal role in workforce development, shedding light on the path that lies ahead for aspiring PCB designers and manufacturers. - Future-Proofing the Industry: Learn about the measures being taken to ensure the sustainability and growth of the electronics manufacturing sector amidst these changes.
    Further Resources:
    Follow Cory Blalock on LinkedIn
    IPC Apprenticeship Information:
    IPC Information for employers
    IPC News releases
    Check out this article about working with IPC compliant Footprint Models

    • 33 min
    Revolutionary System Design: How Valispace is Changing Engineering

    Revolutionary System Design: How Valispace is Changing Engineering

    In this episode of The OnTrack Podcast, Tech Consultant Zach Peterson chats with the co-founders of Valispace, Louise Lindblad and Marco Witzmann. Valispace is revolutionizing the engineering world by transforming system design tools, making them more efficient, connected, and capable of handling the complex requirements of today's engineering challenges. 
     
    Learn how, from satellite engineering to the intricate demands of aerospace and beyond, Valispace's unique approach empowers engineers to build better, more innovative products by bridging the gap between requirements, design, and implementation. 
    Key Highlights:
    Louise & Marco's Backgrounds: Introduction of Louise and Marco, highlighting their professional backgrounds and expertise.
    Valispace Background & Intent: Overview of the origins of Valispace, including the initial purpose and intentions behind its development.
    Spreadsheet Pains: Discussion on the challenges and limitations associated with using spreadsheets for engineering and project management tasks.
    Further Resources:
    Connect with Louise and Marco on LinkedIn
    Watch this webinar to learn more about the Altium 365 requirements manager powered by Valispace
    Exclusive 15 Days Free Altium Designer Access

    • 33 min
    UHDI Innovations & Next-Gen PCBs with Kunal Shah, PhD.

    UHDI Innovations & Next-Gen PCBs with Kunal Shah, PhD.

    In this enlightening episode of the OnTrack Podcast, host Zach Peterson chats with Kunal Shah, PhD., President of liloTree. The two have a detailed conversation about the burgeoning field of Ultra High-Density Interconnects (UHDI) and its impact on the future of electronics.
    Kunal shares his insights on the latest in UHDI innovation, including its challenges and solutions in electronics manufacturing, especially in high-reliability applications such as defense and medical electronics.
    With a focus on the upcoming SMTA panel discussion, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the cutting-edge technologies shaping our world. Don't miss out on this deep dive into UHDI!
     
    Key Highlights: 
    Overview of the various of Developments in UHDI
    Discussion of "Traditional" Plating Materials
    Nickel Vs. Copper
    Overplating Compensation?
    Can silver be an UHDI Alternative?
    More resources:
    Learn More about liloTree
    Check out this article about Ultra HDI PCB capabilities
    Exclusive 15 Days Free Altium Designer Access

    • 44 min
    ESG, Sustainability, & the Future of Electronics w/ Tom Raftery

    ESG, Sustainability, & the Future of Electronics w/ Tom Raftery

    Explore the intersection of technology and sustainability with Tom Raftery, an independent consultant and host of the Climate Confident and Sustainable Supply Chain podcasts, on this episode of the OnTrack Podcast with Zach Peterson. 
     
    Dive deep into the evolving world of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), exploring how advancements in IoT, AI, and sustainable practices are reshaping supply chains and business strategies. Join Tom and Zach as they explore the critical role of transparency, auditability, and regulation in driving forward sustainable innovation and corporate responsibility. 
     
    Key Highlights
    Tom Raftery's Introduction: Gain insights into Tom Raftery's expertise and perspective on sustainability.
    Corporate Concern: Explore the question of whether companies are genuinely demonstrating concern for sustainability.
    Procurement & Sourcing: Delve into the critical role of procurement and sourcing in sustainability efforts.
    Transparency Importance: Understand the significance of transparency in sustainable practices and corporate operations.
    Driving Forces of Sustainability: Explore the real motivations behind sustainability initiatives and their impact on businesses.
    Resources

    Listen to the Climate Confident Podcast


    Learn More about Sustainable Supply Chain


     Tom Raftery’s website

     
     

    • 46 min
    PCBs, Global Innovation Policy & the CHIPS Act

    PCBs, Global Innovation Policy & the CHIPS Act

    Explore the intersection of Global Innovation Policy and the CHIPS Act with Stephen Ezell, VP of Global Innovation Policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), in this insightful episode of the OnTrack Podcast. 
    Hosted by Tech Consultant Zach Peterson, this discussion delves into the complexities of navigating the Chinese market, the principles of comparative advantage, and the critical role of policy in fostering technological self-sufficiency. Discover how the CHIPS Act aims to bolster the electronics industry and innovation within the global tech landscape. 
     
    Key Highlights:
    ITIF's Role and Background: Explore the foundation and mission of ITIF, shedding light on its significance in policy discourse.
    Hardware vs. Software in Policy: Delve into the nuances of hardware and software considerations for policymakers, shaping discussions on technological advancement and regulation.
    CHIPS and Science Act: Examine ITIF's involvement in the CHIPS and Science Act, emphasizing its implications for innovation and industry development.
    Global CHIPS Act Comparisons: Compare the CHIPS Act with similar initiatives worldwide, providing insight into its effectiveness and relevance on a global scale.
    Policy Perspectives on Economic Dynamics: Analyze key questions surrounding industrial policies, including the CHIPS Act's role, potential handouts, and the broader implications for economic strategies like onshoring and friendshoring, in the context of China's economic evolution.

    • 49 min
    Innovations in AI: Transforming the Electronics Industry

    Innovations in AI: Transforming the Electronics Industry

    On this episode of the OnTrack Podcast, we welcome Phil Marcoux, Advisor to the Printed Circuit Engineering Association (PCEA). Phil is gearing up for a fascinating webinar on AI in the electronics industry, so we thought we'd chat with him about what sees as the most potentially transformative aspects of this revolution in the electronics space.
    Listen/watch to discover how Innovations in AI are transforming the electronics industry, reshaping everything from design to production. Phil and host, Tech Consultant Zach Peterson, explore real-world applications, the importance of data for AI's success, and how the industry is moving towards a more interconnected and intelligent (pun intended) future.
     
    Key Highlights
    AI & Electronics Design: Explores the symbiotic relationship between artificial intelligence and electronics design, highlighting how AI is revolutionizing the field.
    Are We in an AI Bubble?: Raises critical inquiry into whether the current surge in AI development constitutes a bubble, prompting reflection on the sustainability and potential pitfalls of AI advancement.
    AI Can't Read Your Mind: Discusses the inherent limitations of AI in deciphering human thoughts and intentions, emphasizing the distinction between AI capabilities and human cognition.
    Trends from the Early Days of AI: Examines trends emerging from the early stages of AI development, providing valuable insights into its evolution and predicting potential future trajectories.
    A Potential Role for AI: Speculates on the future landscape of electronics design with AI integration, envisioning potential applications and transformative impacts on the industry.
    Further Resources
    Sign up for Phil's FREE Webinar
    Connect with Phil Marcoux
    Check out more episodes of the OnTrack Podcast
    Take advantage of exclusive 15 Days Free Altium Designer Access

    • 39 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
20 Ratings

20 Ratings

emh1234565 ,

Love it

Judy and her guests are very knowledgeable about both common and niche areas of PCB design. I’ve definitely gained a broader insight into the state of the art from listening.

stephneness ,

PCB Design Podcast Talks Shop and REALLY Helps!

Great info about all aspects of printed circuit boards - from design to manufacture and assembly this show really aims to cover tough topics that EEs and board designers struggle with every day. Circuit board design has changed ALOT with high speed digital and now Judy Warner, Altium and the industry gurus they run with are here to tell it like it is. Entertaining with smart, interesting people every week - this is a down-to-earth, technology podcast that is throwing the doors open on what it means to design electronics.

BenjaminK1 ,

Awesome show on latest PCB trends and technology

Informative and fun to listen to. Judy Warner seems to be really knowing her guests. If you are a electronics engineer, student or just interested in current and future technology - Subscribe. You'll get some unexpected insights.

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