Import/Export Data

M. Osterman, Q. Bai
Point of Contact: osterman@calce.umd.edu

Objective

Provide a mechanism to transfer material and lead data to and from the CALCE software.

Background

The results obtained from the CALCE software are dependent on the information contained in the design models. Currently, the software provides the ability to import and export PWB design models in the form of ASCII text files. The import/export system is provided interfaces CALCE with other engineering design systems and allows PWB design models to be transferred between individual workstations or companies. Under the current system, only the reference designator of materials and leads used in a design model are transferred. This means that the lead and material databases between individual workstations must be identical, which limits the ability to transfer board models both internally and externally.

Another potential problem is the fact that the material and lead databases on the DOS platform were not developed to be run on a multiple user platform. This creates problems implementing CALCE software in a network situation.

Approach

Examine data sets used to define and store PWB design models.
Outline areas where leads and materials are referenced in the PWB design model.
Develop methods of extracting and inserting data items from both the lead and material databases.
Examine the database managers and make modifications based on changes made in the import/export process.

Work Accomplished

The data export/import tools have been developed for material and lead information, based on the current data structure. These tools are available in CALCE DOS Version 3.5.2 and CALCE Unix Version 1.2.

A new material database manager and data structure has been developed and will be integrated into the next major release of CALCE software. The new database expands the capabilities and functions of the current material database.