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RF/Microwave PCB Verification RF/microwave PCB verification is enabled by importing an IPC-2581 file into AWR software through the AWR Microwave Office ® PCB import wizard (Figure 2). Powerful editing features prepare the structure for fast, accurate, and efficient EM analysis using the AWR AXIEM ® planar EM simulator, which enables designers to select traces, layers, and board regions and specify exactly which layers, nets, and board areas to analyze. Designers can easily omit manufacturing details that won't impact electrical behavior but will unnecessarily slow down the simulation. Figure 2: Integrated mmWave IP area on a mixed-signal PCB with antenna array in the red popout The AWR AXIEM simulator uses the method-of-moments (MoM) technique to analyze distributed PCB components, trans- mission lines, and layer-to-layer PCB interconnects like vias. Designers extract S-parameters directly and visualize fields/ currents to identify parasitic coupling, resonances, and other concerns that could lead to design failure. Features f Full-wave planar MoM technology with advanced hybrid adaptive meshing f Time-saving PCB import wizard technology f Layout editor with shape modifiers/defeaturing for fast EM simulation f Field visualization and post-processing Benefits f Reduce design time with a comprehensive workflow that supports data exchange between RF/microwave and PCB design tools f Maximize engineering productivity with design automation and a user-friendly interface for engineers of all experience levels f Eliminate costly design respins through accurate design verification Conclusion At higher operating frequencies, the physical details of circuit components and signal traces will impact electrical perfor- mance and must be considered as part of the design process. Electronics can appear to behave in unpredictable ways at radio and microwave frequencies, often seeming to violate basic electrical principles such as Ohm's law. EM analysis based on layout and stackup information is commonly used by RF/microwave designers to understand how physical design impacts electrical behavior. With RF-aware simulation tools, engineers eliminate wasted cycles trying to design and troubleshoot front-end compo- nents and related integration challenges. In addition, EM analysis plays a critical role in design verification of all high-speed mixed-signal traces. The state-of-the-art RF/microwave capabilities within the AWR software product portfolio help engineers ensure successful wireless design and integration. To learn more, watch the webinar recording "Developing PCBs for Wireless Applications with EM Verification and an RF Design Flow" at www.awr.com/pcbs-wireless-verification-flow 2 www.cadence.com/go/awr