PCB Technology & Digital Applications 3

Question 1

Which simulation type in SPICE-integrated PCB tools predicts how a signal degrades as it travels along a PCB trace?

Accepted Answer

Signal Integrity (SI) simulation

Answer

SI simulation models transmission line effects, reflections, and crosstalk on high-speed PCB traces.

Question 2

What does 'back-annotation' mean in the PCB design workflow?

Accepted Answer

Updating the schematic with changes made in the PCB layout, such as reference designator swaps

Answer

Back-annotation propagates ECOs like pin swaps or reference changes from the PCB layout back to the schematic.

Question 3

In OrCAD PCB Designer, what is a 'Constraint Manager' used for?

Accepted Answer

Defining and enforcing electrical and physical design rules such as trace width and spacing

Answer

The Constraint Manager in OrCAD centralizes rules for impedance, spacing, length matching, and other design parameters.

Question 4

Which file format is commonly used to exchange PCB designs between different EDA tools in a neutral, standardized way?

Accepted Answer

IPC-2581

Answer

IPC-2581 is an open XML-based standard for transferring complete PCB design and fabrication data between EDA platforms.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 3D STEP export from a PCB EDA tool?

Accepted Answer

To allow mechanical engineers to perform enclosure fit checks and clearance analysis

Answer

A STEP file is imported into MCAD software so the mechanical team can verify the PCB fits inside the housing.

PCB - Design Practice Test