OnTrack: The PCB Design Podcast

Altium LLC.
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The PCB Design Podcast features conversations on all facets of PCB Design and Hardware Development

  1. 17 FEB

    Violet Labs: The Integration Hub Solving Hardware Data Chaos

    Altium Develop connects your entire electronics product team — from design to supply chain to manufacturing — in one unified platform: https://www.altium.com/develop?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=ontrack-podcast&utm_content=violet-labs-the-integration-hub-solving-hardware-data-chaos   Hardware engineering teams have long struggled with disconnected software tools — CAD systems that don't talk to PLMs, PLMs that don't sync with MES platforms, and engineers spending hours manually copying BOM data between systems. In this episode of the Altium OnTrack Podcast, host Zach Peterson sits down with Lucy Hoag, founder and CEO of Violet Labs, to explore how her company is tackling this pervasive problem. Lucy shares her journey from astronautical engineering and satellite design to building a no-code integration platform that acts as a centralized hub for all the disparate tools hardware teams rely on every day.   Violet works like a "Zapier for hardware engineering" — connecting mechanical CAD, electrical CAD, PLM, MES, ERP, project management tools, and more through a single middleware platform. Lucy and Zach dig into why native integrations between major software vendors remain rare, the regulatory constraints that have stalled innovation in aerospace, and how Violet's no-code approach removes barriers for non-software engineers. They also discuss Violet's newly launched MCP server, the role of AI in responsible data orchestration, and what's next on the product roadmap.   👉 Resources from this video:  - Learn about Violet Labs: https://youtu.be/or7okfDOyv8 - Connect with Lucy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhoag/   💡 Stay Connected: Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy. Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!   👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1   Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.   👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner 👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium 👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/ 👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/   The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer!   About Altium LLC   Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products.   #Altium #HardwareEngineering #PCBDesign

    39 min

  2. 10 FEB

    Why Hardware Startups Are Finally Investable Again

    The hardware startup landscape has transformed dramatically since 2020, and investors are finally paying attention. In this episode of the Altium OnTrack podcast, host Zach Peterson sits down with Mihir Shaw and Benji Chia, co-founders of Hardware FYI, to explore why hardware companies are becoming attractive investment opportunities again.    From PCB fabrication innovations to manufacturing automation startups, discover how a new generation of engineers is disrupting traditional industries and building companies that venture capitalists can no longer ignore.   Mihir and Benji share their unique perspectives as both hardware industry insiders and startup investors, discussing the companies making waves in aerospace manufacturing, on-demand fabrication, and automated PCB design. Learn how their popular newsletter grew from zero to 20,000 engaged readers by delivering first-principles technical content that traditional publications overlook.    👉 Resources from this episode: - Building a hardware startup? Altium Develop streamlines your path from schematic to fabricated boards with integrated manufacturing quotes and project management: https://www.altium.com/develop?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=ontrack-podcast&utm_content=hardware-startups-investable-again - Connect with Mihir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mihirmshah8/ - Connect with Benjamin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjchia/ - Learn more about Hardware FYI: https://www.hardwarefyi.com/ 💡 Stay Connected: Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!   👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1   Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.   👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner 👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium 👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/ 👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/   The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer!   About Altium LLC   Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products.   #HardwareStartups #PCBDesign #Altium

    43 min

  3. 3 FEB

    Why 90% of Electronics Fail EMC Tests and How to Fix It

    In this episode of the Altium OnTrack podcast, host Zach Peterson sits down with Karen Burnham, chief engineer and founder of EMC United, to explore why electromagnetic compatibility remains one of the most challenging aspects of product development. Karen shares her journey from physics to NASA Johnson Space Center and eventually into EMC consulting, offering invaluable insights into why so many engineers struggle with compliance testing and what they can do about it.   Whether you're a new designer facing your first EMC test or a seasoned engineer looking to refine your approach, this conversation covers critical topics including common misconceptions about ground plane splits, the dangers of blindly following data sheet recommendations, requirements management pitfalls, and cost-effective pre-compliance strategies. Karen also discusses the evolving role of simulation and AI in EMC design review, upcoming changes to CISPR standards, and her practical seminars designed to help engineers avoid costly failures.   👉 Resources from this Episode:  - Struggling with EMC compliance? Altium Develop gives you access to expert-led courses on design for EMC, helping you avoid costly test failures before your first prototype: https://www.altium.com/develop?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=ontrack-podcast&utm_content=karen-burnham - Connect with Karen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-burnham-42104425 - Check out Todd Hubing's Interview: https://youtu.be/7PJGPDiA31Q - Check Out EMC United: https://www.emcunited.com/   💡 Stay Connected: Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!   👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1   Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.   👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner 👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium 👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/ 👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/   The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer!   About Altium LLC   Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products.   #EMC #PCBDesign #Altium

    48 min

  4. 27 JAN

    EMC Expert Debunks Common PCB Grounding Myths

    In this episode of the Altium OnTrack podcast, host Zach Peterson sits down with Todd Hubing, president of LearnEMC. With over 40 years of experience in electromagnetic compatibility starting at IBM in 1982, Todd brings unparalleled expertise to some of the most misunderstood topics in PCB design. This conversation dives deep into grounding myths, decoupling capacitor placement, stack-up strategies, and common mode currents, challenging long-held assumptions that many designers take for granted.   👉 Resources from this Episode:  - Connect with Todd: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddhubing/ - Check out LearnEMC: https://learnemc.com/ - Effective Strategies for Choosing and Locating Printed Circuit Board Decoupling Capacitors: https://cecas.clemson.edu/cvel/pdf/EMCS05-632.pdf - Check out the latest from Altium Develop: https://www.altium.com/develop?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=ontrack-podcast&utm_content=todd-hubing   💡 Stay Connected: Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!   👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1   Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.   👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner 👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium 👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/ 👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/   The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer!   About Altium LLC   Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products.   #EMC #PCBDesign #Grounding

    58 min

  5. 13 JAN

    Inside Quantum Computing Hardware with Šimon Marek | OnTrack

    Quantum computing is no longer confined to research labs—it's entering the commercial space, and electrical engineers are uniquely positioned to contribute. In this episode of the OnTrack Podcast, host Zach Peterson sits down with quantum hardware designer Šimon Marek to explore the fascinating world of superconducting quantum chips. From transmon qubits and Josephson junctions to control electronics and FPGA-based systems, Šimon breaks down the engineering principles that make quantum computers work, revealing how familiar microwave and RF design concepts translate directly into this cutting-edge field. Whether you're a PCB designer curious about quantum technology or an engineer looking for your next challenge, this conversation offers a practical roadmap for understanding quantum hardware. Šimon shares his journey from Arduino projects to quantum chip design, walks through actual chip layouts and simulation workflows, and discusses the fabrication processes that bring these devices to life. Discover why quantum computing might be more accessible to traditional electronics engineers than you think. 👉 Resources from this episode:  - Šimon's website: https://simonmarekquantum.com/ - Connect with Šimon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonm-054ba325b/ - Paper w/ Quantum Chip: https://arxiv.org/pdf/1704.05018 - Paper w/ Theory: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2005.12667 💡 Stay Connected: Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below! 👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1 Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content. 👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner 👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium 👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/ 👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/ The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer! About Altium LLC Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products. #QuantumComputing #PCBDesign #ElectricalEngineering

    47 min

  6. 8 JAN

    Is AI an Engineering Teammate in Hardware Design?

    Explore AI's role in the future of electronic design and hardware development with Avinash Harsh, co-founder of Wizerr AI. Discover how AI can help engineers make better decisions, reduce design risks, and unlock unprecedented creativity in PCB and electronic component design.   In this revealing Altium OnTrack podcast episode, Harsh challenges the notion that AI will replace engineers, instead presenting a vision of AI as a collaborative "teammate" that enhances human capabilities. Drawing from his background in electronics engineering and software development, he explains how AI can streamline complex tasks like component selection, risk assessment, and design optimization, potentially revolutionizing how hardware engineers approach product development.   👉 Resources from this Episode:  - Avinash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aviharsh/ - Wizerr AI: https://www.wizerr.ai/ - OpenELX: https://www.openelx.org/   💡 Stay Connected:  Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!      👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1      Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.       👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner   👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium    👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/    👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/      The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs.   About Altium LLC Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products. #AIinEngineering #PCBDesign #HardwareTechnology

    36 min

  7. 30/12/2025

    OnTrack PCB Design Podcast 2025 Year in Review

    Join host Zach Peterson for an illuminating journey through the pivotal moments in PCB design and electronics manufacturing in 2025. This year-end review explores critical industry developments, from global trade restructuring to the dramatic expansion of Ultra High-Density Interconnect (UHDI) production capabilities in the United States and beyond.   Discover insights from expert guests who dissect the year's most significant trends: the impact of tariffs on global supply chains, the strategic reshoring of manufacturing, and the technological advances pushing the boundaries of PCB design. Learn how industry leaders are navigating challenges in electronics production, from complex substrate technologies to the intricate world of solder paste innovations.   👉 Watch any of the interviews featured in this video: - Sean Kincade: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOUqu7yXUhw - David Schild: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJepDxzNcyo - Tyler Richards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O95FQHBhlKI - Greg Papandrew: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YTZUn1EnVg - Simon Hinds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3JN2AHzfXQ - Sasan Hashemi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03419M-E4WE - Timon Ruban: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6SzF8kZBpE - Nemanja Jokanovic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YZXUW36tzo&pp=2AYB0gcJCTwKAYcqIYzv - Tom Rein: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laQM-fS5NfQ - Michael Corr: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNmKUVPn3ws - Ari Mahpour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40ca5N_TB4E - Yuriy Shlepnev: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_fcpgeEE-8 - Tony Lentz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PgBWvz-wf8 - Paul Cooke: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni78M7D3AvI - Gene Weiner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrPf2pWoKRc  💡 Stay Connected:   Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!      👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1      Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.       👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner   👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium    👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/    👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/      The Altium Academy is an online experience created to bring modern education to PCB Designers and Engineers all across the world. Here you can access a vast library of free training and educational content covering everything from basic design to advanced principles and step-by-step walkthroughs. Join industry legends as they share their career knowledge, review real-life design projects, or learn how to leverage one of Altium's leading design tools. No matter your level of experience, the Altium Academy can help you become a better Designer and Engineer!   About Altium LLC   Altium LLC (ASX:ALU), a global software company based in San Diego, California, is accelerating the pace of innovation through electronics. From individual inventors to multinational corporations, more PCB designers and engineers choose Altium software to design and realize electronics-based products. #PCBDesign #ElectronicManufacturing #electronicsengineering

    23 min

  8. 23/12/2025

    Breaking Down Electronics Manufacturing with Jay Patel

    Join Zach Peterson in an insightful conversation with Jay Patel, CEO of Amtech, as they dive deep into the world of electronics manufacturing. Discover the critical challenges in PCB production, from supply chain complexities to design for manufacturability (DFM) strategies that can make or break a product's success.   Learn about the evolving landscape of electronics manufacturing, including the shift towards reshoring, the importance of quality control, and the potential game-changing impact of standardized data formats like IPC-2581. Jay shares valuable insights from his extensive experience, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to transform a prototype into a production-ready electronic product.   👉 Resources from this Episode:  - Connect with Jay Patel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayrpatel/ - More about Amtech: https://buildamtech.com/ - Learn more about Octopart: https://octopart.com/ - Check out our PCB West Interview Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3aaAq2OJU5HRgjqtXCsbyHdbHn_SdWGa   💡 Stay Connected:   Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth tutorials and tips from @AltiumAcademy! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!    👉 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@AltiumAcademy?sub_confirmation=1      Don't forget to follow us on social to stay up-to-date on the latest Altium Academy content.       👉 Follow Altium on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altiumdesigner   👉 Follow Altium on Twitter: https://twitter.com/altium    👉 Follow Altium on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altium/    👉 Follow Altium on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltiumOfficial/    #PCBManufacturing #ElectronicEngineering #ManufacturingInnovation

    52 min
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About

The PCB Design Podcast features conversations on all facets of PCB Design and Hardware Development

Information

  • Creator
    Altium LLC.
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    OnTrack: The PCB Design Podcast

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