Altium has recently redefined board shape with their latest software update, offering a range of new features and benefits for PCB designers. This update has introduced new board shape options, including the ability to create complex board shapes with ease. The new board shape options allow for more creative and innovative designs, making it easier for designers to create unique and custom PCBs.
One of the key benefits of Altium’s new board shape options is the ability to create irregular shapes. This is particularly useful for designers who are working on complex projects that require non-standard shapes. With the new board shape options, designers can create shapes that follow the contours of the components on the board, resulting in a more efficient use of space and a more aesthetically pleasing design. Additionally, the new board shape options allow for more precise placement of components, which can improve the overall performance of the PCB.
Overall, Altium’s new board shape options offer a range of benefits for PCB designers, including increased flexibility and creativity, improved efficiency, and better performance. With these new features, designers can create more complex and innovative designs, while also saving time and improving the overall quality of their work.
Why Redefine Board Shape
Redefining board shape is a crucial step in the PCB design process that enables designers to optimize their designs to meet specific requirements. The shape of the board can impact the performance, manufacturability, and cost of the final product. In this section, we will discuss why redefining board shape is essential and the benefits it offers.
Better Utilization of Space
One of the primary reasons to redefine board shape is to optimize the available space. By redefining the shape, designers can fit more components into the board, reducing the overall size of the PCB. This is especially important for products where size is a critical factor, such as wearables, medical devices, and IoT devices.
Improved Signal Integrity
The shape of the board can affect the signal integrity of the circuit. By redefining the shape of the board, designers can minimize signal interference and improve overall signal quality. This is particularly important for high-speed designs, where signal integrity is critical.
Enhanced Thermal Management
Redefining the board shape can also improve thermal management. By creating a more efficient layout, designers can optimize the placement of components to minimize heat generation and improve cooling. This is especially important for high-power designs, where heat dissipation is a significant concern.
Reduced Manufacturing Costs
Finally, redefining the board shape can help reduce manufacturing costs. By optimizing the layout, designers can minimize the number of layers required, reduce the size of the board, and improve manufacturability. This can result in significant cost savings, especially for high-volume products.
In summary, redefining board shape is a critical step in the PCB design process that offers a range of benefits, including better space utilization, improved signal integrity, enhanced thermal management, and reduced manufacturing costs. By optimizing the board shape, designers can create better-performing products that meet specific requirements and are more cost-effective to manufacture.
How to Redefine Board Shape
To redefine the board shape in Altium, follow these simple steps:
- Open the PCB document you want to modify in Altium Designer.
- Click on the Design menu and select Board Shape.
- Choose the Define from Selected Objects option.
- Select the objects that you want to use to define the new board shape. You can use lines, arcs, circles, polygons, or any combination of these.
- Click on the Create Board Shape button to create the new board outline.
Once you have created the new board shape, you can modify it further by using the various editing tools available in Altium Designer. For example, you can use the Move, Rotate, and Resize tools to adjust the board shape to your liking.
It is important to note that the board shape defines the physical boundaries of your PCB, so it is crucial to ensure that it is accurate and meets your design requirements. You can use the Design Rules feature in Altium Designer to set up specific rules and constraints for your board shape, such as minimum and maximum dimensions, keep-out zones, and more.
In conclusion, redefining the board shape in Altium Designer is a simple and straightforward process that can be done with just a few clicks. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a custom board shape that meets your design requirements and ensures the success of your PCB project.
Benefits of Redefining Board Shape
Redefining board shape in Altium has several benefits that can improve the overall design process and functionality of the PCB.
Better Component Placement
By redefining the board shape, designers can optimize component placement for better functionality and performance. This can help reduce signal interference and improve the overall layout of the board. With Altium’s advanced design tools, designers can easily move components around and adjust their placement to achieve the best results.
Improved Thermal Performance
Redefining board shape can also improve the thermal performance of the PCB. By adjusting the board shape, designers can optimize the placement of heat sinks and other cooling components to ensure that the board stays within safe operating temperatures. This can help improve the reliability and longevity of the board.
Enhanced Aesthetics
In addition to improving functionality, redefining board shape can also enhance the aesthetics of the PCB. By adjusting the board shape, designers can create unique and visually appealing designs that stand out from the crowd. This can be particularly important for products that are intended to be sold to consumers.
Easier Manufacturing
Finally, redefining board shape can make the manufacturing process easier and more efficient. By optimizing the board shape for the specific manufacturing process, designers can reduce waste and minimize the need for manual adjustments during production. This can help reduce costs and improve the overall quality of the final product.
Overall, redefining board shape in Altium has several benefits that can improve the functionality, performance, and aesthetics of the PCB, as well as streamline the manufacturing process.
Considerations Before Redefining Board Shape
Before redefining the board shape in Altium, there are several considerations that should be taken into account. These considerations will help ensure that the final design meets all requirements and avoids any potential issues.
Board Size and Placement
The first consideration is the size and placement of the board. It is important to determine the maximum dimensions of the board and ensure that it fits within the intended enclosure or space. Additionally, the placement of components on the board should be considered to ensure that they fit within the board’s new shape and do not interfere with other components or the enclosure.
Routing and Traces
Another consideration is routing and traces. When redefining the board shape, the routing and traces may need to be adjusted to accommodate the new shape. It is important to ensure that all traces are still within the design rules and do not exceed the maximum length or width. Additionally, the routing should be optimized to minimize any potential signal interference or noise.
Mechanical Constraints
Mechanical constraints are also important to consider when redefining the board shape. The new shape should not interfere with any mechanical components or constraints, such as mounting holes or connectors. It is important to ensure that the new board shape does not compromise the mechanical integrity of the design.
Manufacturing and Assembly
Lastly, manufacturing and assembly considerations should be taken into account. The new board shape should not add any additional manufacturing or assembly complexity, and it should still be possible to manufacture and assemble the board using standard techniques and equipment. Additionally, any changes to the board shape should not affect the cost or lead time of the final product.
In summary, before redefining the board shape in Altium, it is important to consider the board size and placement, routing and traces, mechanical constraints, and manufacturing and assembly requirements. By taking these considerations into account, the final design will meet all requirements and avoid any potential issues.
