Abstract: Techniques for optimizing application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and other IC pin assignment corresponding to a high density interconnect (HDI) printed circuit board (PCB) layout are provided. Applying the techniques described herein, pin assignments may be systematically and strategically planned, for example, in an effort to reduce the PCB layer count and associated cost, increase signal integrity and speed, reduce the surface area used by an ASIC and its support circuitry, reduce plane perforations, and reduce via crosstalk when compared to conventional designs with an ASIC mounted on a multilayered PCB.

Abstract: Techniques for optimizing application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and other IC pin assignment corresponding to a high density interconnect (HDI) printed circuit board (PCB) layout are provided. Applying the techniques described herein, pin assignments may be systematically and strategically planned, for example, in an effort to reduce the PCB layer count and associated cost, increase signal integrity and speed, reduce the surface area used by an ASIC and its support circuitry, reduce plane perforations, and reduce via crosstalk when compared to conventional designs with an ASIC mounted on a multilayered PCB.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accessing a high speed signal routed on a conductive trace on an internal layer of a printed circuit board (PCB) using high density interconnect (HDI technology) are provided. The conductive trace may be coupled to a microvia (?Via) having a conductive dome disposed above the outer layer pad of the ?Via. In-circuit test (ICT) fixtures or high speed test probes may interface with the conductive dome to test the high speed signal with decreased reflection loss and other parasitic effects when compared to conventional test points utilizing plated through-hole (PTH) technology.

Abstract: A drop out trigger captures waveform data when a normally continuous input signal is disrupted or interrupted. In the preferred embodiment, a conventional trigger detects a parameter periodically satisfied by the continuous signal and resets a timer whenever a trigger event occurs. The alarm count of the timer is set for an interval slightly larger than the periodic interval. If the timer reaches the alarm count, a measurement signal is generated.