Proven Today
Innovating
for Tomorrow
Introducing our NEW suite of innovative circuit design software.
CORPORATE OVERVIEW
A LEADING GLOBAL PLAYER IN MAINSTREAM, PROFESSIONAL EDA
Electronics Workbench produces the world’s most widely used circuit
design software with more than 160,000 products sold around the globe.
The company has over 15 years of EDA experience and is one of the original
pioneers of PC-based electronics design tools. Electronics Workbench has
offices in New York, Toronto, Amsterdam, Stuttgart, London, and Paris.
A network of highly competent, technical distributors offer sales and support
services in 35 additional countries throughout the world.
THE ELECTRONICS WORKBENCH
ADVANTAGE
Electronics Workbench is devoted to
engineering high quality, robust tools that
offer the circuit designer truly unique
capabilities, providing advantages simply
not available anywhere else. Advantages
that dramatically improve your circuit
design process.
To develop increasingly sophisticated
products in less time than ever before, you
need better software — today and in the
future. Electronics Workbench delivers .
WE OFFER:
Dedication to the professional
circuit/PCB engineer and designer
Commitment to innovation in an
industry within which other vendors
have dramatically slowed development
Truly unique functionality which
by-passes competitor’s stagnant
products
Continued growth in R&D investments
Industry renowned ease-of-use
Flexible licensing options and multiple
price points
The worldwide, corporate headquarters of
Electronics Workbench.
A SAMPLE LIST OF OUR CUSTOMERS AROUND THE WORLD
3M • AT & T • Advanced Micro Devices • Agilent • Alcatel • Allen-Bradley • Allied Signal
AMP • Analog Devices • Atmel • Bang & Olufsen • BMW • Boeing • Bombardier
Celestica • Cisco Systems • Compaq • Dow Chemical • Eastman Kodak • Ericsson
Fairchild Semiconductor • Ford • Fujitsu • General Electric • General Motors
Harris Semiconductor • Hewlett Packard • Hitachi • Honeywell • Hughes • IBM • Intel
Johnson Controls • Lockheed Martin • Los Alamos National Labs • Lucent Technologies
Microchip Technologies • Mitel • Motorola • NASA • National Semiconductor
Nortel Networks • Northrop Grumman • Philips • Procter & Gamble • Raytheon
Rohde & Schwarz • Robert Bosch • Rockwell Collins • Rolls-Royce • Sandia National Labs
Scientific Atlanta • Siemens • Sony • Texas Instrument • Xerox
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PRODUCT PORTFOLIO:
A TIGHTLY INTEGRATED END-TO-END-SUITE
We offer solutions for all major steps in the circuit design
flow: schematic capture, simulation, PCB layout,
autorouting and CAM preparation. By using our complete
suite of products for all your design needs, you will
eliminate data integration issues and will have to learn
only one user interface.
In addition, we provide rare flexibility intended to satisfy
any design need. Choose from two tiers of every
product to match any budget (Professional and
Power Pro as explained on the back cover). And choose
the whole integrated Electronics Workbench Suite or any
product individually. We don’t force you to buy tools you
don’t need.
MULTICAP 7 — SCHEMATIC CAPTURE
Multicap 7 is an exceptional capture program, suitable for pure
schematic entry, driving simulation, or feeding PCB layout.
A well-designed user interface reduces the time and steps needed
for repetitive schematic entry tasks. Powerful wiring algorithms
enable automatic wiring as well as part dragging without losing
connections. Parts are easy to find and quick to place, making
you more efficient. All devices are stored in an integrated
database along with their simulation models and PCB footprints
so that your schematics are automatically ready to simulate at
the click of a single button, and are easily transferable to PCB
layout. Page 5.
MULTISIM 7 — SIMULATION & CAPTURE
Multisim 7 is a powerful simulation tool which includes a
complete, fully integrated version of Multicap 7 for design entry
leading to simulation. Multisim is by far the world’s most widely
used SPICE simulator. Using patented technology, the program
also co-simulates SPICE, VHDL, Verilog, and RF devices so
that you can analyze complete boards containing devices
not practically modeled in SPICE. Verify circuits and locate
errors before they propagate further down the design flow and
become costly mistakes. Investigate circuits using the industry’s
only virtual instruments and “change-on-the-fly” interactive
simulation. Every PCB design should now include simulation
as a key step. Page 8.
multiCAP 7
Schematic Capture
multiSIM 7
SPICE/VHDL/Verilog/RF
Simulation
ultiBOARD
PCB Layout
ultiROUTE
Autorouting
Common User Interface
Tight, Forward & Backward Integration
ULTIBOARD — PCB LAYOUT
Ultiboard combines power with ease of use to quickly get
error-free boards to production. The program uses one of the
industry’s only real-time systems so that all DRC, ratsnest,
polygon, and force vector information is updated in real-time
as you work for instant feedback. Ultiboard’s user interface is
carefully designed so that the most critical repetitive tasks such
as trace editing and component placement can be performed
quickly with minimum steps and fewer mouse clicks. Ultiboard
supports simple to advanced boards, up to 64 layers, 1 nanometer
resolution, microvias, and today’s most complex packages
(such as BGAs). Manufacturing optimization features are also
included to ensure efficient error-free production, with available
CAM functionality. Page 13.
ULTIROUTE — AUTOROUTING
Ultiroute is the only autorouting program to employ
breakthrough technology that combines grid and gridless
(or shape-based) routing techniques into a single engine.
Get better board layouts with higher completion, shorter trace
lengths, and fewer vias through gridless routing, while most
traces are still placed on the grid for easy editing. With Ultiroute,
you will make more efficient use of limited board space and
reduce production costs. And you have complete control over
all configuration factors affecting routing strategy. Page 18.
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COMMITTED TO INNOVATION
Electronics Workbench is devoted
to “innovation”. The desktop EDA
industry is almost 20 years old and
several mainstream EDA vendors
have slowed R&D, resulting in a
lack of innovation and stagnant
software. In contrast, we continue
to grow our re-investments in R&D.
This allows us to challenge the
status quo and deliver functionality
and methodologies never before
seen to help you meet timelines
and budget requirements.
If you are to produce increasingly
sophisticated products in less
time than ever before, you will
need better tools. Not only is
Electronics Workbench introducing
an abundance of productive
features new to EDA design, but our
products are also evolving and
improving at a pace unmatched in
the industry. We are your best
choice for today and the future.
MULTICAP INNOVATION
ULTIBOARD INNOVATION
Multicap is the industry’s only all-new capture
program in a decade. Our 15 years of EDA
experience combined with a modern
architecture and today’s best software
engineering practices have allowed us to
build the industry’s most innovative, efficient
capture tool.
Although there is a long list of important
features needed for PCB layout, we know that
breakthrough productivity gains will only
result from substantial improvements to the
most common and repetitive tasks: part and
trace placement. And this is exactly where
Ultiboard’s innovations are concentrated.
The keys to an effective capture program are
fast, intuitive operation and reliability. We
never lost sight of these objectives as we
developed Multicap — and the results are
impressive. Consider how many parts you
place and wires you draw or change during a
typical design, and you will quickly realize
that Multicap’s innovative approach can save
you thousands of mouse-clicks per project.
Part placement is fast and easy:
Multicap’s industry-leading ease-of-use results
directly from time saving innovations such as:
Modeless Placement & Wiring
Fast retrieval Parts Bins on the desktop
Drag parts from their default position, or
Use the unique Component Sequencer
for rapid-fire, single-click placement
Easily place parts at precise locations or
in congested areas using Ultiboard’s
automated “Push & Shove” function
Only Ultiboard offers three interactive and
fully gridless trace placement techniques.
Choose for yourself the correct balance
between saving time and placement control,
using:
Rubber-banding on part moves/rotates
Unique “Follow-me” trace placement
that automatically routes from the last
placed trace segment to your mouse
The world’s only “bus vectors”
An automatic “Connection Machine”
Auto-connect passives
Traditional manual trace placement
Auto and manual wiring
Instant connect part replacement
Powerful spreadsheet view and editing
Design Constraints that pass to layout
“For our users, it’s all about time to
market. We understand this
requirement and focus our energies
on making extensive product
improvements in the highest leverage
areas — that’s where performance
breakthroughs come from. Users
of competitive packages owe it to
themselves to take a fresh look at
our software. They will quickly see
that our latest release leap-frogs the
competition.”
Ian Suttie, P.Eng.
Vice President
MULTISIM INNOVATION
Multisim is the world’s most popular SPICE
simulator, offering a legacy of unique,
innovative functionality including:
”Change-on-the-fly” interactive simulation
Instant simulation of any schematic
Patented co-simulation with HDLs
Virtual Instruments (e.g. Logic Analyzer,
Scopes, Spectrum Analyzer, etc ... )
Multisim 7 extends this legacy through the
addition of productive features such as:
Automatic SPICE model makers
Simulated “real” Agilent® instruments
An instant measurement probe
Simulation Advisor
National Instruments LabVIEW® integration
Circuit wizards that self-generate circuitry
to meet user defined parameters
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And complete your PCB even sooner with
instant feedback from real-time DRC and
traces that don’t break on part moves.
ULTIROUTE INNOVATION
While competitive autorouting products
struggle with “one-size-fits-all” algorithms
and unreasonably complex configuration
settings, Ultiroute’s industry-leading
performance results from numerous advances,
including:
Automated Design Analysis that optimizes
router settings for each design
The unique combination of grid and
gridless routing
An exceptional autoplacement routine that
strategically locates parts, dramatically
improving the router’s overall performance
Complete user control over all factors
affecting routing strategy
multiCAP 7
Schematic Capture
Multicap 7 is the industry’s most
intuitive, powerful schematic
capture program. With Multicap’s
innovative and timesaving features,
including modeless operation,
powerful autowiring and a
comprehensive database organized
into logical parts bins on your
desktop, you will be creating
complex designs in less time than
you thought possible.
PROJECT MANAGER
Using a familiar tree control structure,
Multicap’s Project Manager provides an easy
and intuitive way to navigate and manage
files. The Project Manager serves two
purposes. First, it allows you to navigate
the structure of hierarchical schematics.
Secondly, it collates schematics, simulation
data, PCB files, and documentation together
into a single project. Files can be locked so
that other users can view files but not make
unauthorized changes. Version control
options give you complete control over the
backup settings.
WORKSPACE
LIBRARIES
Every aspect of Multicap’s user interface can
be customized for your own way of working.
Create and position your own menus,
toolbars and shortcuts, or edit the defaults
that already exists.
A large library of over 17,000 parts includes
symbols (in DIN or ANSI formats) for the
most commonly used devices, including the
latest ICs. In addition to the master library
that ships with the product, users can set
up corporate or user libraries. In this way
it is possible, for example, to identify a set
of approved components that are available
through the purchasing department, and
that meet technical and cost requirements.
You can add your own properties to parts
by employing User Fields, either across
the entire component database, or on a
part-by-part basis.
Multicap provides a spreadsheet view of all
components and nets in your schematics.
The spreadsheet view offers advanced
viewing and editing of all schematic
parameters including RefDes, location,
rotation, color, and even PCB layout design
constraints. This highly powerful editing
tool enables you to change parameters for
multiple objects in a single step (eg. make
all resistors use vertical orientation).
The schematic workspace can have ruler
guides or borders toggled on or off.
Multicap lets you choose your own fonts for
all parts of the schematic. Finally, the Title
Block Editor allows you to completely customize its fields, insert bitmap logos and
arrange information using alignment tools.
Fully customizable workspace
Toggle rulers, borders, and grid
Multi-level zoom
Customizable title block with bitmaps
Tree structure for navigating and
managing hierarchical schematics
Spreadsheet view for instant
viewing/editing
Consolidate various file types
(schematics, PCBs, reports, etc.)
into single projects
Lock files against unauthorized
changes
A Database Manager aids in managing
libraries and parts, while a Component
Wizard guides you through the creation of
new devices. And if one of the industry’s
largest libraries with a wizard to aide
creation of of new parts isn’t enough,
Multicap also includes edaPARTS.com, the
world’s largest on-line component database
with over 12 million parts. Multicap
automatically generates the schematic
symbol for the part you select from
edaPARTS.com.
All Electronics Workbench programs use
an integrated database, meaning that
simulation models and PCB layout footprints
are stored together with the parts' schematic
symbol. As a result, every schematic is
instantly ready for simulation and layout,
literally with the click of a single button.
17,000 device library
Backup control
Symbols in DIN or ANSI formats for
U.S. or international applications
Database Manager
HIERARCHY
Multicap has full hierarchical and flat
multi-sheet design. Changes to a sheet
can be applied to just that instance, or to
all instances of that sheet throughout the
schematic. This facilitates reusability of
common circuits and ensures consistency
among groups of designers. Refinements
made to a circuit propagate to all other
circuits making reference to it. Portions of
a circuit can be easily saved as a subcircuit
for future reuse.
Separate Corporate and User
Library levels
Component Wizard
Integrated database for simulation
and PCB — every schematic ready
for simulation and layout
Every element in the user interface is fully
customizable.
Powerful searches and filters
Custom part properties (User Fields)
Access edaPARTS.com — the world’s
largest on-line component database
Full hierarchical design
Flat, multi-sheet support with
off-page connectors
Changes automatically propagated
through hierarchy
Replace by subcircuit feature
5
multiCAP 7
Schematic Capture
PLACING PARTS
WIRING
SYMBOL EDITOR
Placing parts is the second most common
task during schematic capture, and it’s
quick and easy in Multicap. One reason is
that devices are sorted into families and
subgroups and stored in logical Parts Bins
on your desktop. No more guessing where
to find a part or scrolling through long
alphanumeric lists. Parts can also be
found by using searches on any electronic
parameters. Filters can limit results to
certain manufacturers or families.
At Electronics Workbench, we fully
understand that wiring is the step in capture
that is repeated the most (often hundreds
or even thousands of times) and so we have
developed truly unique functionality to
maximize your efficiency.
An entirely new, sophisticated symbol
editor provides the flexibility to build
even complex parts quickly and easily.
Customizable pins can be placed
individually, or by using pin array
placement to automatically add large
numbers of pins with a few simple steps.
Another key time-saver is modeless
operation. In a capability unique to
Multicap, you don’t need to tell the program
whether you want to place a part or draw a
wire. Multicap’s built-in intelligence knows
what you are trying to do. This conserves
significant time as you avoid repeatedly
toggling back and forth between modes, a
redundant requirement of other schematic
products.
You, the user, define the default mode for
placement: place just a single instance of
a part, or repeat placement until pressing
the ESC key. You can even drop 2-terminal
passives directly onto a wire and the
connection is automatically made for you,
saving a huge amount of time as there are
frequently hundreds of such devices added
once the basic circuit is created.
Advanced library searching
Modeless part placement
Set default placement method
Instant 2-terminal device connection
Fast retrieval through logical
parts families
Use intuitive Parts Bins on your desktop to
quickly select components, or perform
advanced searches based on numerous part
characteristics.
6
A powerful autowiring feature lets you
simply click on a source and destination
pin, instructing the program to make a
connection for you. Like a PCB autorouter,
this feature will find optimal connections
and avoid objects automatically. But unlike
a PCB autorouter that uses a strategy to
create compact connections, our schematic
autowiring algorithm strives to make wire
paths intuitive and logical, placed as you
would expect if you had drawn it yourself.
Multicap of course also offers traditional
manual wiring. You can even combine
manual and automatic wiring to force the
placement of some key wire segments, and
let the program automatically connect the
rest of the wire.
Because of Multicap ’s modeless operation,
when you click on a pin the program
immediately starts wiring — you don’t have
to perform any unnecessary steps to specify
that you want to leave placement mode and
begin wiring.
Wire “rubber-banding” enables you to move
or rotate connected parts without ever losing
connections. Similarly, you can drag and
reshape wires as you please. Finally, use
virtual wiring to completely eliminate the
need to physically draw the wire at all.
Just label two points the same and Multicap
automatically connects them “virtually”
without cluttering the schematic.
The Symbol Editor supports fast creation of
schematic symbols, including today’s largest
digital ICs, using features like Pin Arrays.
The Symbol Editor offers a spreadsheet
view for advanced and fast editing of pins.
Alignment tools are extremely useful for
positioning objects on the same axis.
Mistakes can be reversed with undo/redo
functionality. Create complex symbols with
a large palette of drawing tools, combined
with the ability to add bitmap images.
A Symbol Integrity Check can be run to
verify new or edited symbols.
Quickly draw even the most complex ICs
Customize default pin options
Pin array placement for large parts
Automatic or Manual wiring
Alignment tools
Modeless wiring
Undo/redo
Rubber-banding on component moves
Unlimited zoom
Virtual wiring
Resize boundary box
User control over autowiring and
rubber-banding algorithm
Bitmap support
Wire reshaping without losing
connections
Symbol Integrity Check
Multiple graphic drawing tools
Spreadsheet view for advanced editing
of parameters and pins
multiCAP 7
Schematic Capture
BUSES
DESIGN CONSTRAINTS
REPORTS AND DOCUMENTATION
Multicap 7’s completely redesigned bus
support will significantly reduce the time
you spend setting up buses, assigning the
bits of the bus to appropriate pins, and
wiring the connection. Configure any size
bus (8, 16, 32, 64 and 128 bits) easily with
auto-incrementing functionality that
eliminates the need to define every bit.
Then assign bus bits to the appropriate
range of pins on a symbol with a few easy
steps. Finally, wire the entire bus in one
easy step with the industry’s only bus
“vector-connect” function.
Using Multicap, you can set PCB layout and
routing constraints directly from your
schematic. Specify min/max trace width,
min/max trace length, clearances to
trace/pads/vias, constrain certain traces to a
specific layer and more. All such constraints
specified during capture will be recognized
and utilized by Ultiboard and Ultiroute.
An Electrical Rules Check allows you to
define what Multicap sees as a schematic
error. It can search for errors such as outputs
connected together, inputs connected
together, an input pin driving an output,
and I/O pins incorrectly connected to power.
The Schematic Statistics report summarizes
the number of parts, nets, unconnected pins
and more, while the Spare Gates report
shows unused gates in multi-section parts.
A Bill of Material (BOM) report displays
information about all the components used
in your design and is fully customizable.
With a single button, reports can be
printed, saved to file, or loaded into
Microsoft® Excel®. The program includes
a documentation editor to insert text,
graphics, sound, or movies.
Design constraints pass through to
Ultiboard and Ultiroute
All buses are fully editable so changing
one section without disturbing other bus
segments is easy. You can even use all this
functionality between hierarchical sheets
or with off-page connectors.
Electrical Rules Check
Auto-incrementing of bus bits
Customizable BOM
Bus vector wizard auto assign pins
Schematic Statistics report
Industry-leading bus “vector-connect”
Spare Gates report
Fully editable buses once placed
Insert text, graphics, sound
and video
Use buses across hierarchical or
flat sheets
450 connections to the bus for ease
of viewing/labeling
PCB design constraints can be entered at the
schematic level and automatically exported to
Ultiboard.
TRANSFER TO PCB LAYOUT
Multicap schematics are transferred and
loaded into Ultiboard with a single button.
All 17,000 library parts have matching
Ultiboard footprints so that you will never
experience transfer errors. There is full
forward and backward annotation between
Multicap and Ultiboard. Annotation
supports: RefDes changes, component value
changes, new or removed components, new
or removed pins, and net name changes.
Multicap can also export to third party
PCB layout programs: Orcad®, Protel®, Eagle®,
P-CAD®, Cadstar® and PADS®.
Multicap has powerful bus support including
the industry’s only “vector-connect”.
Electrical Rules Check prevents schematic
errors from propagating further down the
design flow.
Single button export to Ultiboard
THIRD PARTY SCHEMATIC IMPORT
Forward and backward annotation
from Ultiboard
For users of legacy capture tools from other
vendors, Multicap provides comprehensive
file import capabilities. Transfer schematics
from Orcad Capture®, PSPICE® and Ulticap®
quickly and smoothly into Multicap.
Export to Orcad, Protel, Eagle, P-CAD,
Cadstar and PADS
Import from Orcad, PSPICE and Ulticap
7
multiSIM 7
Simulation & Capture
With simulation now recognized as
a key step in the circuit design
process, the question remains how
to best incorporate simulation into
your workflow to design better
circuits in less time. Multisim 7, the
world’s only interactive simulator, is
the answer. It will shorten your
design cycle and reduce iterations
by helping you verify your
design and detect mistakes before
prototyping.
Multisim includes a completely
integrated version of Multicap,
making it the ideal tool for creating
and then instantly simulating
circuits.
Multisim’s advantages
include patented co-simulation, an
extensive suite of analyses and our
unique Virtual Instruments.
INTERACTIVE SPICE
You don’t have to be a SPICE expert to use
Multisim. All SPICE netlists and commands
operate behind the scenes, giving Multisim
its well earned reputation as the most user
friendly simulator available. And it’s the
only interactive simulator in the world.
Multisim allows you to make changes to
your schematic while simulation is running
to explore “what if” scenarios.
Fast, accurate simulation results are
generated from the program’s engine that
is based on industry standard and proven
SPICE 3F5. Enhancements have been
made for improved speed, accuracy, and
convergence. Multisim also incorporates
XSPICE for improved behavioral
modeling and digital simulation. It is fully
mixed-mode, so that every part can be used
in every circuit (no “digital-only” parts like
in other tools). Should the engine ever
encounter convergence problems, a
Simulation Advisor provides detailed
messaging with diagnostic suggestions.
Using synchronized simulation and
documentation, you can even have
descriptive text scroll during simulation
to illustrate events as they occur.
Fast, accurate simulation results
Industry’s only interactive simulator
No need to understand SPICE syntax
Industry standard SPICE 3F5/XSPICE
Available Speed/Accuracy tradeoffs
Simulation Advisor
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MODEL LIBRARY
ADDING MODELS
Because a simulator is only as good as its
models, Multisim includes one of the
industry’s largest libraries with over 17,000
simulatable parts. Even with such a large
database, it’s easy to find the part you want.
Devices are logically organized into families.
Further, you can perform extensive SQL
searches to find parts. For example, search
for a 5-volt CMOS binary adder in a SO-16
package.
Multisim provides more options for adding
new simulation models to the already
extensive database than any other product.
Multisim is the only product with
interactive, animated and virtual parts.
These are not “real” parts that can be
ordered from a manufacturer, but instead
are intended to let you easily explore design
alternatives during simulation.
Model Makers deliver an easy way to
automatically generate SPICE models
from databook values. Employing highly
advanced algorithms for optimal
performance matching, Multisim’s Model
Makers can make SPICE models for Diodes,
BJTs, MOSFETs, Zener Diodes, SCRs, and
Opamps. Digital parts can be created with
an easy to learn descriptive language.
Interactive switches, potentiometers, and
capacitors in Multisim allow you to
adjust their values using a designated
keystroke and instantly see changes while
a simulation is running. This interactivity
is ideal for experimenting with different
values, and saves significant time by not
having to change parts and then rerun
simulations.
Animated parts, such as LEDs and
7-segment displays, change their appearance
in response to simulation results.
Virtual Components allow you to assign
any value you like, even if you could not
find a part with those exact values in real
life. Use virtual devices early in the design
cycle, regularly changing and experimenting
with their values, and replace them with real
devices once you know what values are
required to meet design specifications.
Models for 17,000 parts
Innovative Model Makers automatically generate
SPICE models directly from databook values.
Manufacturer-supplied SPICE models (often
available for download from their websites)
can be imported since Multisim supports
all industry standard formats and even
proprietary formats like PSPICE.
Multisim can even simulate compiled
C-code so that you can model devices using
C-code scripts. And finally, Multisim fully
supports IEEE compliant VHDL and Verilog
models.
Parts logically organized into families
Advanced searches and filters
Interactive components
Virtual components
Animated components
Every model is fully mixed-mode
(no “digital-only” parts)
Model Makers
SPICE3F5 models
XSPICE models
PSPICE models
C-code support
VHDL models
Verilog models
multiSIM 7
Simulation & Capture
INTERNET DESIGN SHARING
CIRCUIT WIZARDS
RF DESIGN MODULE
Multisim’s Internet Design Sharing allows
colleagues in different locations to work on
the same circuit as if they were in the same
room, controlling and examining the circuit
together in real-time. Users can be around
the corner, across town, or on opposite sides
of the globe.
Multisim contains unique, advanced
wizards for automating the creation of
certain specialized circuitry (including the
associated simulation model).
Multisim RF provides simulator
enhancements and special features for
high frequency design beyond 100MHz.
The 555 Timer Wizard is used to assist
with appropriately configuring this
widely-used, versatile chip to produce the
desired behavior. Obtaining the required
configuration is one of the most common
complaints from users, and this wizard
overcomes these difficulties. Simply tell
Multisim whether you want the chip to
operate in a stable or monostable mode
and the program generates recommended
circuitry to deliver the desired functionality.
Most SPICE models are unreliable for RF
designs because at higher frequencies,
simulation behavior departs from databook
values, often owing to models that don’t
have parasitic capacitances. Multisim RF
contains a library of SPICE models designed
to be accurate at high frequencies and also
includes devices unique to higher frequency
circuits.
Interdigital Capacitors
Microstrips and Transmission Lines
Pin Diodes
RF BJTs
RF MOSFETs
Spiral Inductors
Tunnel Diodes
Collaborate on the same circuit file from
different locations at one time.
Waveguides
Should you want to make your own RF
models, Multisim RF also comes with
Model Makers which automatically generate
SPICE models from databook values for:
SOURCES AND DATA ACQUISITION
Multisim’s virtual function generator
operates just like its real world equivalent
and is an easy way to generate source
signals. You can also change this
instrument’s waveform shape, frequency,
and amplitude while a simulation is
running and instantly see the changes at
measurement points.
An extensive collection of sources include:
DC, Sine, Triangle, Square, Pulse, Arbitrary,
AM, FM, FSK, Exponential, Clock,
Polynomial and One Shot. In addition, the
piecewise linear source lets you define the
shape of a signal, or utilize a simple text data
file to use real data as the source for your
simulations.
And finally, Multisim is compatible with
LabVIEW® from National Instruments®,
so you can do data acquisition and compare
simulation results to measured data.
RF Capacitors
Multisim‘s filter wizard automatically creates
circuitry to match your specific poles/zeros
and filter type requirements.
RF Inductors
Striplines and Transmission Lines
Waveguides
The Filter Wizard enables you to specify
filter characteristics which Multisim will
use to generate circuitry meeting those
parameters. Tell Multisim the poles/zeros,
the type of filter (hi-pass, low-pass,
band-pass, etc.), and Multisim can devise
Chebyshev, Bessel or Butterworth filters for
you utilizing both active and passive devices.
555 Timer wizard
Filter Wizard
A Spectrum Analyzer displays circuit
characteristics in the frequency domain,
letting you investigate signal harmonics,
carrier levels and side-band frequencies.
A Network Analyzer plots output versus
input amplitude over a range of frequencies
and calculates S-, Y-, Z- and H-parameters.
It derives circuit characteristics and plots
them onto a Smith chart. Then it generates
gain and stability circles to investigate
circuit stability and automatically find
lumped element configurations to match
the circuit’s impedance.
Interactive Function Generator
Extensive sources
Spectrum Analyzer
Drive simulations with real world values
Network Analyzer
Integrated with National Instruments
LabVIEW for data acquisition
Smith Charts
Stability Circles
Automatic impedance matching
RF Model Library
RF Model Makers
National Instruments LabVIEW interface.
9
multiSIM 7
Simulation & Capture
VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS
Multisim has established a reputation for
powerful yet easy-to-use simulation. The
use of Virtual Instruments, with faceplates
that look and operate just like their
real-world counterparts, is one of the
ways that Multisim rose to this leadership
position. Virtual instruments let you take
advantage of the full power of simulation
without having to be an expert in SPICE
syntax. Instruments are wired into the
schematic just like you would connect a real
instrument on the bench. It’s completely
intuitive.
When you press a button on an instrument,
an appropriate simulation command is
automatically issued and results are
immediately displayed on that instrument's
face. Instruments are also interactive so
that you can change their settings while a
simulation is running and instantly see new
results.
And Electronics Workbench has also
partnered with leading instrument vendors
such as Agilent® to provide simulated “real”
instruments that look and operate exactly
like the vendor’s real-world model.
Frequency Counter — Measurements
include frequency, period, pulse, rise/fall.
Choose between AC or DC coupling and
set sensitivity and trigger level.
Function Generator — Produces square,
triangular, or sinusoidal waves. Set
frequency (to 1 GHz), duty cycle, amplitude,
and DC offset.
Bode Plotter.
Multimeter — Measure AC and DC current
and voltage, resistance, and decibel loss
(autoranging).
Network Analyzer — Measure the
S-parameters of networks, with Smith
Charts, stability circles and impedance
matching.
Oscilloscope — Internal or external
triggering on the positive or negative edge.
Available in 2- and 4-channel versions.
Network Analyzer.
Spectrum Analyzer — Measure amplitude
versus frequency with adjustable span and
amplitude range.
Tool-tip Measurement Probe — Interactive,
fast and easy way to check voltage on
different nodes and pins. Just point-andclick for instant readings.
Industry’s only virtual instruments
Look and operate like their real-world
counterparts
Comprehensive suite of 18 instruments
No need to be a SPICE expert
Voltmeter — For fast, simple indications
of voltage.
Four-channel Oscilloscope.
Wattmeter — Measure power values and
display power factor readings.
Interactive operation
Real faceplates and simulated
functionality from leading
instrument vendors
Word Generator — Configure to step one
word at a time, burst through user-defined
sets of data (using final and initial
addresses) or cycle continuously.
16-Channel Logic Analyzer — Scroll through
data and display logic levels with cursors.
Spectrum Analyzer.
Agilent® Instruments — Simulated
implementations that look just like this
leading vendor’s 54622D Scope, 34401A
DMM, and 33120A Waveform Generator.
Intended to simulate these real instruments’
functionality as precisely as possible.
Ammeter — For fast, simple read-outs of
current.
Bode Plotter — Indicates frequency
response, plotting gain or phase shift
against frequency (up to 10 GHz).
Distortion Analyzer — Measure both
intermodulation distortion and total
harmonic distortion for signals.
10
Simulated 54622D Oscilloscope from Agilent.
multiSIM 7
Simulation & Capture
ANALYSES
While virtual instruments give you the
flexibility of a complete lab, Multisim’s
21 analyses let you investigate circuits
in ways just not possible in the real world.
Multisim has the most extensive analysis
suite available, and provides you with all
the insight you need to fully understand
your circuit’s behavior and performance:
GRAPHER
Monte Carlo — Perform statistical analysis
of the transient, AC and DC circuit response
to random variations of device parameters.
3dB Point — Calculates and displays the
popular 3dB point on any graph for your
circuit.
The grapher serves as a multi-purpose tool
to view, adjust, save, print, and export the
results of a simulation analysis. The fully
customizable grapher lets you make
measurements, set markers, configure axes
and add grids. You can also overlay traces
from different simulation runs to compare
results. All grapher results can be loaded
into Microsoft® Excel® or Mathsoft®
Mathcad® with a single button.
Displays simulation results
View, adjust, save, print and export data
AC and DC Sensitivity — Display sensitivity
to a particular parameter and predict
how variances in manufacturing can affect
circuit performance.
AC Frequency Sweep — Plot gain and
phase response over a specified range of
frequencies.
Batched Analyses — Schedule a sequence
of analyses to be run.
Precise measurements
Overlay traces and compare results
Excel® and Mathcad® export
Monte Carlo analysis shows possible statistical
deviations when manufacturing.
POST PROCESSOR
Nested Sweep — Run one analysis
within another. For example, perform
a temperature sweep on the results of a
parameter sweep.
DC Operating Point — Determine the DC
operating point of a circuit and produce a
detailed report of voltages and currents at
each circuit node.
Noise — Determine the noise susceptibility
of your circuits by calculating the RMS sum
of noise contributions.
DC Sweep — Compute the DC operating
point of nodes in the circuit for various
values of voltage or current sources.
Pole-Zero — Determine the AC smallsignal transfer function of a circuit and
calculate the poles and zeros (points of
instability).
Distortion — Determine total harmonic
distortion and its spectral density.
Fourier — Observe the spectral components
of signals in your circuit.
I-V Analyzer — Generate the characteristic
I-V curves for diodes, BJTs, and MOSFETs.
Temperature Sweep — Sweep transient, DC,
and AC response of any circuit over a range
of operating temperatures.
The Post Processor allows you to perform
calculations on simulation results and
waveforms. You can perform most
mathematical and engineering operations
on the results, including: arithmetic,
trigonometric, calculus, algebraic, Boolean
logic, vector and complex mathematics
functions. Multiply a voltage curve by
a current waveform to obtain power
curves or observe the effect of circuit
changes by subtracting one simulation
result from another. The possible uses for
this tool are endless.
Perform mathematical calculations
on simulation results/graphs
Arithmetic operators
Trace Width — Simulate current through
all circuit branches and automatically
assign appropriate trace widths for PCB
layout, ensuring all traces have sufficient
current handling capacity. Results are
automatically exported to Ultiboard.
Transfer Function — Derive the DC small
signal transfer function of a circuit and
calculate the input resistance, output
resistance and DC gain.
Trigonometric operators
Calculus operators
Algebraic operators
Boolean logic operators
Vector operators
Complex math operators
Transient — Understand the behavior of
your circuit over a user-specified time range.
I-V Analyzer generating the characteristic I-V
curves.
Model Parameter Sweep — Perform
transient, DC and AC analyses while
sweeping a component model parameter.
User-Defined Analysis — Create your own
customized analyses.
Worst Case — Determine the most extreme
values to be expected in your circuit, given
the specified tolerance for each component.
11
multiSIM 7
Simulation & Capture
MultiHDL (VHDL OR VERILOG)
PATENTED CO-SIMULATION
Multisim’s VHDL and Verilog programs
have the power and features demanded by
experienced users, but with exceptional
ease-of-use. Both programs come complete
with flexible design entry, highly automated
project management, powerful simulation,
advanced waveform viewing and
comprehensive debug features. MultiHDL
can be used as a stand-alone application, or
together with Multisim’s SPICE simulator
using patented co-simulation. Perfect for
either programmable logic design or for
creating simulation models for complex
digital ICs not practically modeled in SPICE.
Because different components are sometimes
best modeled in different simulation
languages, Multisim has developed a
co-simulation engine that can analyze
designs combining a mix of SPICE, VHDL,
and Verilog modeled components. This
technological breakthrough finally enables
designers to simulate complete boards
containing discrete, analog, glue logic,
programmable logic and complex digital
devices for the first time. Up until this point,
simulation often had to exclude the more
complex digital ICs for which SPICE models
were not available and not practical for
the user to create. Multisim’s patented
co-simulation technology seamlessly
integrates three distinct simulation
engines that interchange data in real time,
displaying one consolidated result.
Project Manager
Source Code Editor
Design and Testbench Wizard
Automated file compilation
and ordering
Co-simulation is an ideal testbench when
writing VHDL or Verilog code since you
can test devices along with the very circuits
in which they are designed to operate.
In addition, co-simulation makes Multisim’s
VHDL and Verilog programs the best way to
learn HDLs. Start by simply adding HDL
models to your circuit designs, then begin
writing your own code, and before long you
will be generating code for complex devices.
Combine and simulate components
with SPICE, VHDL and Verilog models
in a single design
Integrated simulation and results
Ideal testbench
Best way to learn HDL design
Fast, accurate simulation
Complete VHDL IEEE 1076-93
and 1164 support, or
Complete Verilog IEEE 1364 support
Graphical Waveform Viewer
Detailed errors and warning messages
Advanced, interactive source level
debugging
SPICE
Verilog HDL
VHDL
Multisim lets you simulate designs containing a mix of SPICE, VHDL and
Verilog HDL modeled components.
MultiHDL comes complete with everything you
need for either programmable logic design or
to create simulation models for complex digital
ICs not practically modeled in SPICE.
“ Board-level simulation has never really been common-place among PCB
designers because it couldn’t handle all the components on the board.
Multisim could very well herald the next step forward in PCB design
methodology, because it can co-simulate both HDL and SPICE components.”
Rita Glover, EDA Industry Analyst & President of EDA Today
12
PCB Layout
Once your schematic has been
completed, you need to quickly get
error-free boards into production.
Ultiboard handles this task with
ease.
Ultiboard’s user interface has been
carefully designed to maximize
your productivity. By intensely
innovating the most common,
repetitive tasks such as part
and trace placement, we have
dramatically reduced the keystrokes
and mouse movements required
to execute even the most complex
layouts. And 3-D visualization with
Mechanical CAD makes sure that
your board not only works but is
also properly mated to the product
it drives.
USER-FRIENDLY INTERFACE
SIMPLIFIES NAVIGATION
Ultiboard’s user-friendly interface simplifies
viewing and navigation of large designs,
with features such as selective dimming
of inactive layers, a “bird’s-eye” window
showing the active area relative to the whole
board, fast zoom and pan, and a full-screen
mode to maximize the workspace. Selection
filters let you isolate components, traces,
copper areas or text from the rest of the
design, making it easier to select the element
you want.
FAST BOARD OUTLINE CREATION
Ultiboard lets you create any shape board,
including cutouts, up to 2x2 meters in size.
Import board outlines as DXF files from
AutoCAD or other mechanical CAD
programs, or define an outline from scratch
with the help of an Advanced Board Outline
Wizard. You can create custom keepout
areas and modify any board shape with
functions for polygons, arcs, Bezier curves,
circles, ellipses, and rounded rectangles.
Or make use of Ultiboard’s library of
pre-defined board outlines, which includes
most standard PCB shapes.
Drawing tools for any shape board
Board size up to 2m x 2m
Board Outline wizard
DXF import
Keepout areas
Ultiboard supports all of the steps
in the PCB layout workflow —
from initial component placement
through
to
manufacturing
optimization. Innovative features
such
as
real-time
design
rule checking, “Push & Shove”
component
placement,
and
“Follow-me” trace editing ensure
that you rapidly complete an
error-free board.
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION WITH
SCHEMATICS
Importing a schematic design into Ultiboard
is fast and easy: a single click of a button in
Multicap imports the netlist into Ultiboard,
populates the parts bin, and adds the
components to the layout workspace.
Ultiboard also supports seamless back
annotation to Multicap schematics.
And for users of legacy PCB software,
Ultiboard lets you import legacy layout
files from third part vendors like Orcad®.
Library of standard board outlines
A “bird’s-eye” gives you an overview of your
circuit and can also be used to navigate around
the board.
You can customize and create all standard
Windows functionality including toolbars,
menus and shortcut keys, to allow the
creation of a workspace that’s comfortable
and productive for you.
Customizable menus, toolbars and
commands
Create any shape boards using the advanced
Board Outline Wizard.
Inactive layer dimming
Selection filters
Comprehensive alignment tools
Full-screen mode
Permits multiple open designs
Multi-level undo/redo
Bird’s-eye view
In-place text editing
Single button export from Multicap
Forward and back annotation
Import PCB files from Orcad Layout®
13
PCB Layout
REAL-TIME DESIGN RULE CHECK
CUTS TIME AND ERRORS
Real-time design rule checking (unique to
Ultiboard) shortens the design cycle by
flagging rule violations as they occur, letting
you prevent mistakes rather than finding
and fixing them later. With violations
highlighted during interactive layout and
routing, you can quickly nudge a component
or trace to meet design rules as you work.
Or you can choose to ignore violations and
analyze them at the end of the session using
an error log. Clicking an entry in the error
log “jumps” to the violation clearly marked
on the board, where you can either correct it
or override the rule.
POWERFUL LAYER CONFIGURATION
INDUSTRY-LEADING PRECISION
Intuitive layer stackup editing lets you
easily define and edit configurations with
up to 64 signal or power plane layers and
10 mechanical layers.
Ultiboard’s one-nanometer architecture,
the industry’s leading resolution, ensures
support for truly gridless placement of even
the smallest objects. It accepts any units of
measurement, and allows different units
for different objects in the same design:
for example, you can specify the grid in mils
while drill sizes are millimeters.
1 nm internal resolution
Gridless placement
Mixed metric and imperial units
Separate trace and placement grids
ADVANCED PADS AND VIAS WITH
AUTOMATIC STACKUP UPDATE
Easy stackup editing for up to 64 copper and
10 mechanical layers.
Ultiboard easily handles complexities
such as split power planes as well as all
manufacturing details like glue layers or
solder and paste masks.
Ultiboard supports polygon pads, blind and
buried vias, advanced padstacks and
microvias. Pads or vias can have different
shapes on different layers. Display as much
information about pads and vias as you
need.
64 Copper layers
10 Mechanical layers
Ultiboard has extensive error reporting with
“jump to” functionality.
Split power planes
Solder mask
Paste mask
By eliminating errors early, your design team
spends less time and money reworking
boards later. You also avoid having to make
last-minute, less-than-optimal design
changes to get the board out the door.
Real time DRC
Error log
Silkscreen
Glue layers
Drill guides
Fabrication and assembly information
Ultiboard supports creation of any shaped
pads and allows user control over the display
of information including via size inside a pad.
Error markers
“Jump to error”
For example, you can include drill sizes
inside pads. Ultiboard automatically
updates the board stackup to capture the
different types of vias in use, providing a
significant time savings.
Any shape pads
Blind and buried vias
Microvias
Guided stackup creation
User-controlled display of pad/via
information
14
PCB Layout
FAST, INTUITIVE PART PLACEMENT
FOOTPRINT LIBRARY
ADVANCED FOOTPRINT EDITING
Ultiboard features two intuitive
drag-and-drop placement techniques. You
can drag parts from their default position
just outside the board outline (where they
appear immediately following schematic
import) or place them from a parts bin that
shows all components in the netlist.
Ultiboard contains one of the industry’s
largest component footprint libraries,
with nearly 4,000 shapes. The library is
constantly updated with the most current
devices. Manage this database, add parts
and customize libraries with Ultiboard’s
sophisticated library manager.
Ultiboard includes a Footprint Wizard that
lets you quickly create complicated BGAs or
flatpacks, or choose from a dozen different
SMD or through-hole device types. Shapes
can also be imported as DXF files.
The “Component Sequencer” lets you sort
components in the parts bin for rapid-fire
placement. The next part in the sequence
will automatically appear on your cursor
as soon as the previous component is placed,
without having to return to the list.
Supporting the Electronics Workbench
intuitive workflow, Ultiboard’s “In-place
Footprint Editor” lets you create and edit
shapes directly on the board, eliminating
the need to leave the layout process just to
edit a footprint.
Footprint Wizard
Footprint editing directly on the
board using the In-place Editor
Segments of your PCB can be saved to your
libraries for repeated use.
Rapidly place parts using the Component
Sequencer.
Powerful features simplify part placement in
dense designs. The “Push and Shove” feature
automatically moves interfering parts aside
to let you place components at precise
locations or in congested areas. It even
offers “Springback” from the board outline.
Real-time “Force Vectors” guide placement
for routability, analyzing the ratsnest and
advising where to move the component
while placing.
Ultiboard further reduces design times with
physical design reuse. Simply group a
subset of your layout (including all traces)
and add it to a library, allowing frequently
used blocks to be easily copied in future
circuits.
4,000 footprints
Footprint Browser
In-place editing lets you change footprints
directly on the board, eliminating the need to
return to the Footprint Editor.
Library Manager
Advanced library search
User defined part attributes
Part grouping
Save blocks to library for design reuse
Ultiboard provides any-angle placement.
Component mirroring automatically flips
and rotates footprints placed on other side
of the board. Alignment and spacing tools
arrange parts, pads and text to improve
space efficiency and add to the professional
appearance of the layout. Grouped parts
maintain their relative positions as you
move them. Ruler guides assist in accurate
and precise placement; simply snap a part to
the guide and slide it to an exact coordinate.
Any angle/exact co-ordinates placement
Real time force vectors
Component mirroring
Auto-alignment tools
”Push and Shove” with “Springback”
Component Sequencer
15
PCB Layout
POWERFUL TRACE PLACEMENT
Ultiboard includes three powerful trace
placement techniques, providing the
flexibility to meet a range of design
complexities and user preferences. All
are fully gridless and interactive.
COPPER AREAS AND POWER
PLANES
Highly advanced copper pour lets you create
areas with any combination of shapes
including polygons, arcs and cutouts.
Copper areas can also be connected to pins,
with or without thermal relief.
Ultiboard’s unique “follow-me” trace
placement combines the power and
automation of an autorouter with the
flexibility and control of manual placement.
Guide the path of the trace with your
cursor, using the “follow-me” feature to
automatically route from the last placed
segment to your mouse. You can manually
route a partial trace segment and
allow Ultiboard to complete the trace
automatically. This powerful “follow-me”
feature also makes it possible to drag parts
without breaking their connections.
UNIQUE TRACE FUNCTIONALITY
Ultiboard comes with a number of robust
features for working with traces. Real-time
ratsnesting updates the ratsnest lines
continually as you move parts and traces.
"From copper ratsnesting" displays ratsnest
lines from the nearest copper point, not just
from pins. Dragging components does not
break the trace connection. Our “snap-to”
feature offer discrete jumps between
elements on your board as you move the
mouse: the cursor snaps to the ratsnest in
trace placement mode, and to copper in the
select mode.
Advanced copper areas support trace voiding
and cutouts with real-time polygon updates.
Real-time polygon updating lets you plow
traces through a copper area, creating the
necessary void automatically as you place
the trace.
Drawing tools for any copper shape
Ghosting when editing or dragging traces
makes it easy to focus on the selected object.
Copper cutouts
Automatic thermal relief
Real time copper area updating
“Follow-me” trace placement delivers the
power and automation of an autorouter with
the flexibility and control of manual routing.
Ultiboard’s “Connection Machine” effectively
autoroutes an entire trace with a simple
click on a ratsnest line. Fast, gridless, and
precise, it routes the trace between the two
nearest pads on the net.
Ultiboard also supports traditional manual
trace placement, where you change the path
of the trace with each mouse click.
Plow traces through copper
Split power planes
BUILT-IN AUTOROUTING
Ultiboard includes a built-in standard
autorouter that is sufficient for basic boards.
It utilizes a rip-up and retry algorithm and
is grid-based. For most of today’s PCBs,
you’ll want to consider adding our
state-of-the-art autorouter, Ultiroute.
Page 18.
All trace properties can be changed while
editing. For example, you can change the
angle and width of your trace on-the-fly
to navigate through dense pin arrays. Begin
routing from any point on a ratsnest, not
just from a pin. When you get close to a
destination pad, a “magnetic” attraction
effect pulls the trace in to complete the
connection.
Real time ratsnest updates
Mouse snap to trace
From copper ratsnesting
“Magnetic” attraction at pads
Ghosting while editing
Part drag maintains connections
Trace always connected to your cursor
Gridless
Unique “Follow-me” placement
“Connection Machine”
Part drag maintains connections
16
Editable trace properties while placing
PCB Layout
GERBER, MANUFACTURING AND
OUTPUT FILES
Before going to production, clean up your
board and reduce manufacturing costs by
automatically removing unused track
segments and vias. You can also renumber
components using your preferred strategy
to easily locate parts on finished boards.
Ultiboard includes a Gerber viewer to verify
photo-plots before making film. You can
view photo-plots directly on the screen,
or print from the Gerber viewer.
Catching errors early will avoid lengthy
and expensive artwork revisions.
3D VISUALIZATION
POWERFUL CAM SOLUTION
Ultiboard’s 3D Viewer brings your design to
life, providing a realistic 3D rendering of a
complete, populated board. Boards are
reproduced in complete detail including
components, traces, pads and silkscreen.
Because all library parts contain accurate
height and color information, the
3D viewer can display exceptional detail
such as color-code bands on resistors and
the polarity of diodes.
GerbTool from Electronics Workbench offers
a powerful CAM solution complete with
DFM analysis, automatic error correction,
netlist extraction and comparison and NC
drill/mill editor.
Ultiboard produces output in many different
formats, fully customizable for PCB design
review. For example, merge multiple layers
to produce one output layer. And of course,
Ultiboard supports the latest Windows
printer and plotter drivers.
Perform final visual inspection, DFM checks,
last minute corrections, panelization,
teardropping and create needed
documentation for fabrication and assembly.
Customizable output formats
Layer output merging
Gerber 274-X and 274-D output
Gerber Viewer
Realistic 3D renderings.
BOM, Centroid and Drill file
DXF export
ENSURE THINGS FIT AS DESIGNED
WITH MECHANICAL CAD
Ultiboard comes with a built-in Mechanical
CAD Module. This powerful capability
allows you to draw accurate front panels,
enclosures, and many other mechanical
pieces. Ensure correct positioning of the
PCB within the enclosure or chassis and
correct alignment with the front panel.
Draw front panels, enclosures, etc.
Align mechanical objects with PCB
Navigate the 3D view with rotate, pan and
zoom functions, and use the dimming
feature to see though layers. Use this
realistic rendering to preview designs before
production, and share it with clients or other
design team members.
Realistic 3D views
Rotate, pan, and zoom 3D boards
Ensure component heights will fit
enclosures
Full editing, data extraction and exporting
and optimization are just some of the
powerful features available. Perform
panelization, silkscreen removal and
teardropping.
Import Wizard
Robust and accurate multi-pass
DRC/DFM
Complete Gerber Editor
Panelization including optional
automatic venting
Automatic silkscreen removal
from pads
Intelligent polygon pouring and filling
Isolated and buried pad removal
from inner layers
Teardrops and snowman pads
including tee junctions
Film optimization
Built-in mechanical CAD for drawing front
panels, enclosures, etc. to ensure board fits as
needed.
17
Autorouting
AUTOPLACEMENT
Electronics Workbench software
handles complex designs including
large multi-layer boards and
high-pin-count components such as
BGAs. For all but the most basic
of PCBs, the density and complexity
of today’s designs can make
manual trace placement techniques
impractical.
Ultiroute's autoplacement algorithms provide
high-density component placement, fitting
more parts onto limited board space, all
optimized for routability.
No matter what the complexity of
your designs, you’ll be amazed at
the way Ultiroute will route your
boards, consistently improving
circuit performance while reducing
production costs.
Ultiroute routes on a grid wherever possible,
automatically switching to gridless routing
where necessary. As a result, you get all
the benefits of gridless (or shape-based)
autorouting for difficult to route traces, with
the convenience of having most traces located
on grid for easy and efficient manipulation.
Ultiroute easily handles dense pin arrays and
can route around the contour of today’s most
advanced parts. Ultiroute’s capability to
utilize both grid and gridless routing is truly
unique and is one of the key reasons for its
consistently impressive benchmark results.
For these designs, Electronics
Workbench offers Ultiroute —
a state-of-the-art autorouting
and autoplacement tool. Ultiroute
ensures high circuit performance
and lower production costs
by uniquely combining the best
of gridless (shape-based) and
grid-based routing.
In benchmark tests against other
leading autorouters, Ultiroute
consistently delivers noticeably
superior board designs with fewer
vias and shorter copper lengths.
BEST OF GRID-BASED AND GRIDLESS
AUTOROUTING
Manual wire pre-placement
SMD via pre-placement
Powerful autoplace algorithms will improve
component layout and also help the autorouter
achieve optimal results.
You have complete control over autoplacement
with the ability to pre-place parts, set
separation values, enable surface-mount
device mirroring and gate swapping.
Ultiroute quickly and effectively places
components for high routing completion.
Multi-layer routing
Power layer routing
Graphical progress display
Unique combination of grid and
shape-based router
High density placement optimized
for routability
Pre-place critical components
Set minimum distance between parts
Automatic block capacitor recognition
Through-hole and SMD support
Cluster placement support
SMD mirroring
Pin and gate swapping
Graphical progress display
Ultiroute provides industry leading
autoplacement and combined grid/gridless
autorouting.
18
An unique combination of shape-based and
grid-based routing will improve your layouts
and reduce production costs, paying for itself
many times over.
Autorouting
DESIGN ANALYSIS OPTIMIZES
ROUTING RESULTS
FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE ROUTING
OPTIONS
An autorouter’s settings will affect results
differently for each unique design. Ultiroute
uses Design Analysis to examine each design
file before routing and adjusts the router
settings based on the characteristics of
the design. This results in optimal router
performance every time.
Ultiroute’s flexibility gives you complete
control over the autorouting process.
You can define anything from grid size and
maximum via counts to preferred routing
directions for each layer of the PCB.
MANUFACTURING OPTIMIZATION
Even after the autorouter has achieved 100%
completion, Ultiroute lets you refine your
board to optimize layout, reduce production
costs and improve manufacturing yield.
You also have complete control over the
cost factors used by the routing algorithm:
via cost, pin channel cost, packaging cost,
counter direction cost and more.
Fully customizable cost factors
User-defined grid
Maximum via setting
Batch routing option
Pin and gate swapping
Via offset support
A fully customizable cleanup routine
enhances your layout by reducing via
counts, mitering corners, smoothing traces
and removing any wire bends created
during autorouting.
Boards are scanned and router options
automatically adjusted to match board
requirements.
The true test of an autorouter is the results
it generates as measured by percentage
completion, overall copper length, number
of vias and other factors. Ultiroute is a
regular benchmark test winner, and Design
Analysis is one of the key reasons that it
easily surpasses autorouters that use the
same “fixed” default settings for every board.
Automatic board analysis
Use optimization routines to reduce
production costs and improve manufacturing
yields.
Fully customizable optimization
cost factors
Trace smoothing
Via reduction
Cross-net cleanup
Corner mitering
Routing options and cost factors are fully
customizable.
Router settings chosen to meet
board characteristics
19
multiCAP 7
multiSIM 7
Schematic Capture
Simulation & Capture
Multicap Features
Customizable GUI
Modeless placement & wiring
Fast retrieval Parts Bins
Auto and manual wiring
Advanced Symbol Editor
Fast auto-connect passives
Rubber-banding on part move
Orcad Capture & PSPICE import
edaPARTS.com
Project Manager
Hierarchical design
Multi-sheet flat design
Virtual wiring
Forward/Backward annotation
Component Database (#of parts)
Spreadsheet view
Constraint-driven capture
Bus Vector connect
Electrical Rules Check
Corporate database
Customizable BOM
User-defined fields
Schematic statistics report
Advanced parts search
Title block editor
Spare Gates report
Pro Power Pro
9,000
17,000
Multisim Features
Multicap 7 included (by tier)
Customizable GUI
Standard SPICE 3X5/XSPICE
Fully mixed-mode A/D simulation
World’s only interactive simulator
Simulation Advisor
Speed/Accuracy tradeoffs
Virtual, interactive, animated parts
PSPICE import
Instant Measurement Probe
NI LabVIEW integration
Component Editor Wizard
Internet Design Sharing
Co-simulation of SPICE/HDLs
Virtual Instruments
Analyses
Simulated Agilent instruments
Model Library
555 Timer Wizard
Filter Wizard
Post Processor
Nested Sweeps
C-Code Modeling
Model Makers
RF Design Module
Model Expansion Packages
VHDL or Verilog HDL
Autorouting
PCB Layout
Pro Power Pro
14
17
1
9,000
18
24
3
17,000
opt.
opt.
opt.
opt.
opt.
Or Our Complete Integrated Design Flow
Ultiboard Features
Fully Customizable GUI
Bird’s eye view
Real-time & from copper ratsnest
Real-time DRC with “Jump-to”
64 Layers
Any angle/co-ordinate placement
Extensive outputs (Gerber, DXF)
Real-time polygon update
Part drag keeps connection
1 Nanometer resolution
Gridless “Follow-me” placement
3D Viewer
Keep-in/Keep-out areas
Inactive layer dimming
Board Outline Wizard
Forward/Backward annotation
Auto-alignment of parts
Number of Pins Supported
Footprints in library
Push & Shove part placement
Component Placement Sequencer
In-place Footprint Editor
Gridless Connect Machine
Mechanical CAD
Test point insertion
Microvias
GerbTool CAM module
Pro Power Pro
1,400
4,000
unlimited
4,000
Ultiroute Features
Pro Power Pro
Advanced autoplacement
Pre-place critical components
Through hole & SMD support
Set min. distance between parts
SMD mirroring
Pin/Gate swap
Graphical progress display
Advanced SMD fanout
Cluster placement support
Auto Block Capacitor recognition
Fully customizable cost factors
Trace smoothing
Via reduction
Cross-net cleanup
Corner mitering
Unlimited undo and redo
Via offset support
SMD via pre-placement
Batch routing option
Manual trace pre-placement
Multi-layer routing
Power layer routing
Maximum Via Setting
Number of Layers
4
unlimited
opt.
Distributor:
Suites include Multicap 7, Multisim 7, Ultiboard and Ultiroute.
Electronics Workbench USA
60 Industrial Park, #068
Cheektowaga, New York 14227
800.263.5552
www.electronicsworkbench.com
Electronics Workbench Canada
111 Peter Street, Suite 801
Toronto, Ontario M5V 2H1
800.263.5552
www.electronicsworkbench.com
Dedicated to the Professional
BRPro04/03
Electronics Workbench Europe
Energiestraat 36
1411 AT Naarden, The Netherlands
31.35.694.4444
www.ewbeurope.com
Committed to Innovation
Truly Unique Functionality
© 2003 Interactive Image Technologies. All rights reserved. Electronics Workbench, Multisim and Ultiboard are registered trademarks of Interactive Image Technologies Ltd. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.