Signal
integrity analysis predicts performance and behaviour in advance
of design layout or prototype production. This is particularly
significant in applications involving high-speed signals or unique
and untested inter-connection schemes. Predicting signal behaviour
and identifying problem areas can reduce design and prototype iterations,
resulting in a quicker and smoother time-to-market.
Costs Benefits of Using Simulation Analysis
Also, the insight into electrical behaviour gained from simulation
is very useful in optimising a system’s design, not just
for right-first-time reasons but for cost and manufacturability
purposes by verifying cost-reducing design strategies, like reducing
layer-count for example. It comes down to distinguishing between “Good
as possible” or “Good as necessary”.
What-If Analysis (Pre-layout)
TIS uses a variety of simulation techniques as part of an integrated
engineering strategy. One technique, “what-if” analysis,
is used for new or unique inter-connection schemes. This occurs
before layout (Pre-layout) is even started, so representative
default characteristics for traces and vias are chosen. Several
cases, with different variables, are simulated to investigate
performance under different conditions.
Important questions can be answered with this technique:
• Will it work?
• What are the bottlenecks?
• What is the effect of using different PC material, connectors,
wider tracks etc?
On-the-fly Analysis
For analysing a design "on-the-fly", simulation is performed
within the CAD layout software itself. Models are plugged into
the CAD system directly. This method gives instant feedback on
a design layout; as tracks are added or moved, for example, the
crosstalk simulation can be immediately updated and the designer
can see the impact of the modification. This technique is key in
the optimisation of a design increasing the tracking density usually
reduces the layer-count, which means lower PCB cost.
Post-layout Analysis
This is where the actual layout configuration is analysed. This
can be used to verify the layout, identifying critical nets or
problem areas, or to achieve a more detailed analysis of traces,
replacing the representative trace model with a “real” one.
Services we offer
TIS offers contract simulation services to support customers with
their engineering effort. Customers can chose to use only this
service or combine it with our layout, backplane and enclosure
design and manufacturing resources. We provide detailed quotations
in advance and we deliver simulation results compiled in an in-depth
report. For backplane simulation, we also provide a “cook-book” to
aid our customers with the layout of their daughter cards.
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