PADS2007 is said to offer the ability to implement RF and microwave circuitry using automated functionality and perform design for fabrication (DFF) checking early in the design process. Enhancements include high-speed analysis/verification functionality; controls for matched length nets and differential routing improvements; square and chamfered corners; DXF-in import, and via matrixing enhancements for RF design. Designs with partial vias (blind or buried) are automatically updated with the layer pairs and drill count of the partial vias in the design; alpha-numeric pin improvements simplify creation of large BGA-based parts; ECO enhancements include comparison of design rules between the schematic and layout databases. Fabrication checks, such as acid trap, starved thermals, solder mask slivers are checked in the CAD environment and database. Can turn on/off the visibility of the component pin numbers. Integration of DxDesigner and the HyperLynx LineSim tool.

Mentor Graphics Corporation, www.mentor.com