EPISODE BREAKDOWN

• 0:00:00 - So why EMC?
• 0:06:08 - EM tools
• 0:15:40 - Noise...
• 0:26:27 - SI + EM
• 0:46:28 - The PCB Guy has risen
• 0:55:30 - How to learn EMC
• 1:06:11 - PCB mechanical challenges
• 1:20:15 - The EMC pocket guide Enjoy the episode!

Check out Kenneth Wyatt's website: https://benchtopemc.com/

And Karen Burnham's EMC United: https://www.emcunited.com/

EPISODE BREAKDOWN

• 0:00:42 - China vs USA
• 0:08:15 - About Robert
• 0:17:28 - What it takes to do layout
• 0:29:04 - Top Fedevel courses
• 0:37:31 - Fab-proven stack-ups
• 0:46:15 - Stupid question...
• 0:51:55 - Choosing a PCB shop
• 1:02:51 - True or false

EPISODE BREAKDOWN

0:00:00 Project Speedrun

0:04:56 Speed and functionality

0:13:19 "You have to respect the physics"

0:19:39 Impedance requirements

0:24:14 Getting started with Quilter

0:32:32 - Fabricating Project Speedrun

00:45:25 - Quilter's 2026 goals

00:55:18 - The physics problems solved by Quilter's models

1:03:29 - Working with manufacturing constraints

1:08:24 - AI in 2026

1:17:29 - OFF PCB

Learn more about Quilter and Project Speedrun: https://www.quilter.ai/project-speedrun

We also dive into the real reasons why network analyzers cost what they do, how RF is used in drone applications, and what every engineer should know about MW-capable components. And don’t miss the “Off PCB” segment where our poster finally gave up while Neil was sharing his quirks outside the lab.

EPISODE BREAKDOWN

00:00 - Introduction

02:41 - How to learn RF

07:20 - Phase noise

19:49 - Low-noise amplifiers

27:03 - RF/MW for drones

32:39 - Components at MW frequencies

39:09 - Why are network analyzers so expensive?

47:16 - TRUE OR FALSE

52:25 - OFF PCB

Topics discussed:

• Why EMI and heating matter in PCB design

• The biggest mistakes designers make when it comes to EMC

• How Denpaflux’s online platform provides real-time EMC assessments

• The benefits of an iterative approach to optimizing EMC performance

• When to conduct EMC analysis for the best results

Topics include:

• Shifting left in the design process and how AI can help streamline engineering tasks without sacrificing creativity.

• The potential of AI in predicting manufacturing problems before production.

• AI tools for component selection and layout optimization.

• Surprising outcomes in PCB design with AI and the future of AI-powered design.

• How Quilter is making hardware design more accessible to engineers and non-engineers alike.

EPISODE BREAKDOWN

0:08 - Introduction

4:37 - Ground plane design and bounce

11:25 - Switch mode supplies

17:05 - Impedance and fine pitch components

23:20 - "Do we wanna talk about RF?"

30:55 - Choosing materials

34:52 - The parasitic inductance and capacitance of vias

41:25 - DFM and EMI

48:02 - "Who do I have to kill to save that penny?" or the story of EMI in automotive and avionics

53:53 - "It's a waveguide"

1:00:10 - AI in the high-frequency RF field

In this episode, Karen talks practical approach to solving real-world EMC challenges. From identifying root causes of interference to navigating stringent standards, this discussion is packed with valuable insights for engineers of all levels. Discover the step-by-step breakdown of the EMC troubleshooting process, the importance of understanding standards as helpful guidelines rather than roadblocks, and the emerging challenges as electronic systems evolve.

This conversation covers critical EMC principles and best practices that can make your engineering projects smoother and more efficient. Plus, find out how you can further your knowledge with recommended resources and join the standards committees that shape the future of the field.

Join us as we dive into his career, exploring the challenges and rewards of PCB design, the importance of design for manufacturing (DFM), and his experiences at Rocket EMS. Patrick also offers valuable advice for designers on how to improve their designs by collaborating with fabricators and manufacturers.

Learn about his insights into the transition from hands-on design work to product management and marketing at Cadence, and how his role now impacts the PCB design community at large.

Kirsch Mackey, founder of HaSofu and adjunct professor at the University of Arkansas, shares his journey and motivation behind creating HaSofu. With a keen focus on addressing the gaps in traditional education for electrical engineers and PCB designers, Kirsch unveils his unique teaching framework for success. From discussing the current state of AI in PCB design to zooming in on JITX and exploring AI software applications, Kirsch provides invaluable perspectives on the role of artificial intelligence in revolutionizing the industry and discusses the tipping point for AI adoption.

With engaging discussions on the future of PCB design and the impact of AI, this episode promises to be both informative and thought-provoking. Tune in to discover why AI won't be taking your job anytime soon and gain a deeper understanding of the evolving dynamics in electronic engineering.

In this episode recorded at the Levi's Stadium, amid the excitement of the Niners heading to the Super Bowl and DesignCon happening nearby, Dan shares insights from his DesignCon workshop on a field-based design philosophy for power distribution systems. He discusses the importance of understanding electromagnetic field physics in PCB design and how a shift in perspective, focusing on building pathways for energy, can transform the landscape and increase success rates. Dan also touches on his DesignCon class on high-density interconnect design, emphasizing challenges and considerations for sensor proliferation in electric vehicles.

The episode provides a sneak peek into the world of EMC, PCB layout, and the fundamental shift needed in design philosophy. Join us on Trace Talks as we unravel the intricacies of PCB design and fabrication with expert insights, industry trends, and engaging discussions. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just getting started, this podcast aims to make the complex world of PCBs accessible to all.