The first new feature is the introduction of the bi-directional IDX Collaboration interface, which means that MCAD is brought even closer to the PCB designer. IDX enables the exchange of data from ECAD to MCAD delivering incremental design exchange, which helps to eliminate the need for large design transfers each time a change is made.
Changes can be tracked and reviewed with each action accepted or rejected, which means a more efficient and structured approach to designing, all driven from inside the PCB design environment.
“This tight integration with MCAD using our new IDX collaboration interface means users have a streamlined option with design iteration capabilities,” said Bob Williams, Marketing Director for Pulsonix. “The ECAD/MCAD design process improves significantly, and this results in impressive productivity gains. Pulsonix 13.0 also adds routing, visualisation, and revision control improvements that enhance our feature-rich tools and reflects our dedication to developing products to address the needs of our customers.”
Utilising the Pulsonix 3D engine, a photo-realistic 3D rendering of the PCB design can be visualised. Further enhancements to the 3D engine within Pulsonix 13.0 mean users can now use additional parameters when designing flexi-rigid boards.
The definition of neutral axis values more accurately details the plane within the surface of the shape, so that when the material is bent, the plane does not undergo any tension or compression, and so is the 'true' length of the bent shape. This coupled with the display of realistic solder mask layers, transparency and opacity settings provides a higher degree of accuracy for critical designs.
Where the track width is required based on the impedance defined for the net, this is calculated dynamically using a new feature in Pulsonix 13.0 when track editing is initiated.
After defining Impedance Rules in the constraint manager, along with the layer material, material thickness and dielectric constant, the calculation is automatically initiated as manual track routing is performed. This reduces design time and improves design accuracy.
New features in the Pulsonix Vault for Version 13.0 add refinement and greater usability to this option. Vault item permissions and status have been added as well as Find from the Audit trail, the ability to detach MCAD models, a View-only feature, check-in as replacement and a library export by type. The Pulsonix Vault is a free-of charge-option supplied will all Pulsonix variants.
“This significant update delivers a broad range of enhancements and new features throughout the product, enabling engineers to craft designs effortlessly and to streamline their workflows through performance benefits,” added Williams.
Pulsonix Version 13.0 is available now.
