Apple-And-Microsoft-Computers

Bringing Professional EDA Software to the Engineering Masses

May 21, 2014
"Innovators around the world need to have access to professional-class PCB design tools to easily capture their design concepts," said Henry Potts, vice president and general manager of Mentor Graphics Systems Design Division.

Electronic components distributor Digi-Key Corp. has joined with Mentor Graphics Corp., providers of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design solutions, to create a concept-to-prototype design tool targeted for green-field projects before transition to production.

The Designer Schematic product will addresses escalating demand from professional engineers for Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software at an affordable price point for new R&D projects, while facilitating access to the latest parts, the company said.

“Innovators around the world need to have access to professional-class PCB design tools to easily capture their design concepts,” said Henry Potts, vice president and general manager of Mentor Graphics Systems Design Division.

The Designer Schematic tool is scheduled to launch early this summer, for under $300.

The web-based software is designed to give engineers real-time access to the latest design components along with easy access to Design Service Providers and PCB Fabrication and Manufacturing Services.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer our customers a high-value CAD software solution that will take them to the next level of product design and prototyping without breaking the bank,” said Randall Restle, director of Application Engineering for Digi-Key. “As a result, innovators will be able to focus on design creation, maintain their flexibility, and minimize the prototype development process.”

About the Author

Adrienne Selko | Senior Editor - MH&L, IW, & EHS Today

Adrienne Selko has written about many topics over the 17 years she has been with Endeavor Business Media and currently focuses on workforce development strategies. Previously Adrienne was in corporate communications at a medical manufacturing company as well as a large regional bank.

She is the author of Do I Have to Wear Garlic Around My Neck? which made the Cleveland Plain Dealer's best sellers list. She is a senior editor at Material Handling & Logistics, EHS Today, and IndustryWeek. 

Editorial Mission Statement:

Manufacturing is the enviable position of creating products, processes, and policies that solve the world’s problems. When the industry stepped up to manufacture what was necessary to combat the pandemic, it revealed its true nature. My goal is to showcase the sector’s ability to address a broad range of workforce issues including technology, training, diversity & inclusion, with a goal of enticing future generations to join this amazing sector.

Why I Find Manufacturing Interesting: 

On my first day working for a company that made medical equipment such as MRIs, I toured the plant floor. On every wall was a photo of a person, mostly children. I asked my supervisor why this was the case and he said that the work we do at this company has saved these people’s lives. “We never forget how important our work is and everyone’s contribution to that.” From that moment on I was hooked on manufacturing.

I have talked with many people in this field who have transformed their own career development to assist others. For example, companies are hiring those with disabilities, those previously incarcerated, and other talent pools that have been underutilized. I have talked with leaders who have brought out the best in their workforce, as well as employees doing their best work while doing good for the world.