20 July 2011News
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
RS Components has announced the release of DesignSpark PCB version 2, its free PCB design software package.
Working in partnership with Number One Systems, new features in DesignSpark PCB include 3D visualisation of PCB layouts and increased library management functionality. The upgraded software is free to download for new users at www.designspark.com/pcb, and existing users will be alerted to the upgrade via release alerts in the tool.
Over 50 000 users have downloaded DesignSpark PCB since its launch last year, with the tool proving to be one of the most popular free PCB design software packages available. Since then, thousands of users have contributed suggestions for development at DesignSpark, an online community and information network for electronics design engineers managed by RS Components. Version 2 has heeded these calls by providing enhanced features and functionality for users.
DesignSpark PCB has been strengthened in three key areas: a 3D viewer has been added to the tool, which enables engineers to see a three-dimensional representation of their board at any stage during design, allowing fast evaluation of mechanical design requirements within their existing eCAD package. New library features and output graphics allow users to create and save new libraries, move components directly to libraries from the design view, and provide more flexibility in reports and print options. Functionality enhancements are found in the project menu, with new design management options including command, duplication and improved resolution of angular rotation, all speeding up design test and development for users.
Rooibos heads to space
News
A South African scientific initiative linking agriculture and space research has officially launched today with the Rooibos in Space programme at Parklands College’s Innovation Centre in Cape Town.
Read more...The new reality of PCB material supply Jemstech
Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
How resilient manufacturing strategies are helping OEMs navigate a changing global supply chain.
Read more...From the editor's desk: Local can be international Technews Publishing
Editor's Choice News
Welcome to the July 2026 issue of Dataweek. As you can see from this introduction, Dataweek’s regular editor, Peter Howells, is on extended leave and I am filling the void in his editor’s column – hopefully without being too boring.
Read more...Landis+Gyr EMEA introduces new company name: EYKON
News
EYKON is the new company name of Landis+Gyr EMEA, formerly part of the Landis+Gyr Group. The company supports electricity, gas, water and thermal utilities in managing increasingly complex networks, improving operational efficiency and enabling more sustainable use of resources.
Read more...Yamaha Robotics will show visitors to EFX
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services News
Yamaha Robotics will show visitors to EFX 2026, the Expo for Electronics Manufacturing, in Stuttgart from 6-8 October 2026, how advanced surface-mount automation helps companies grow their business and increase productivity.
Read more...Power modules for solid-state transformers RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
Microchip’s new 3,3 kV silicon carbide modules deliver the required thermal performance and efficiency for SSTs to increase power available for token generation.
Read more...TSE has relocated
News
The Technology Station in Electronics (TSE) has entered a new chapter with its relocation from the CSIR campus to TUT-owned building at Ditsela Place in Hatfield.
Read more...Innovative MyLegrand app RS South Africa
News
Legrand SA is set to launch the MyLegrand mobile application, a digital platform designed to strengthen engagement across its professional network.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.