CAD models are important for electronic component management
PCB designers can implement several strategies for effective component management, including maintaining a centralized CAD model library with accurate and standardized component models. By adhering to standardization principles, designers ensure consistency in their designs and facilitate the reuse of those designs. Collaboration tools foster communication and sharing within design teams, while training and documentation promote best practices. The table below lists strategies PCB designers can employ for effective electronic component management.
Electronic Component Management: Strategies | ||
Solution | Description | Benefits |
CAD Model Library | Using a centralized repository of CAD models representing electronic components, mechanical parts, symbols, footprints, and other design elements. | – Provides easy access to components – Facilitates design reuse – Reduces errors and costs |
Standardization | Adopting standardized component footprints to streamline design processes. | – Reduces design time – Ensures compatibility – Facilitates sourcing and procurement |
Parametric Search | Implementing parametric search functionality within the component library for efficient component selection. | – Enables quick identification of suitable components – Saves time in component selection – Reduces errors in component specification |
Version Control | Implementing version control for CAD models to track revisions and ensure design integrity. | – Prevents errors due to using outdated CAD models – Facilitates collaboration among team members – Enables easy rollback to previous versions if needed |
Cross-Referencing | Cross-referencing components to identify suitable alternatives and mitigate supply chain risks. | – Reduces dependency on single suppliers – Ensures continuity of supply – Provides flexibility in component selection |
Collaboration Tools | Utilizing collaboration tools for communication and sharing within design teams. | – Facilitates communication and feedback – Enables real-time collaboration on designs – Improves team efficiency and productivity |
Customized Solutions | Providing training and documentation on component management best practices and library usage. | – Ensures consistent use of the component library – Improves understanding of library features – Reduces errors and inefficiencies in component selection |
These strategies collectively enhance component management, streamline design processes, and improve the quality and reliability of PCB designs.
UL’s VLS Enables Efficient Electronic Component Management
UL’s Virtual Librarian Service (VLS) dashboard
With UL’s Virtual Librarian Service (VLS) you can streamline your electronic component management by creating an exclusive components library. In addition to integrated access to the world’s largest database of electronic parts, your virtual librarian gives you access to UL’s team of experts who create millions of CAD models for components from thousands of verified manufacturers for download. Additionally, VLS helps you bypass long wait times to receive custom components.
VLS operates as a custom dashboard, with users having a unique login to access a personal and company-wide components library. All components match your internal standards and requirements. You send a request with matching datasheets, drawings, or specs, and within two business days, the component will be in your library ready for use. These components are exclusive to your company and unavailable to the general public.
VLS enables you to:
- Maintain internal company standards and requirements
- Gain access to a custom and exclusive internal components library
- Reduce time creating components, increasing overall design productivity
- Create a custom dashboard for employee use
- Increase project volume with fast component-request turnaround time
If you’re looking for CAD models for common components or effective electronic components management solutions, Ultra Librarian helps by compiling all your sourcing and CAD information in one place.
Building and maintaining an effective component library that is supply chain resilient requires expertise and substantial time commitment. Working with Ultra Librarian is the most efficient solution. We can build you a customized Virtual Librarian Service that will streamline component selection, ensure parts meet your standards, expedite procurement, and optimize your PCBA development process for innovation. To learn more, schedule a meeting.