AnsoftLinks for Mentor Graphics PADS Layout Released

PITTSBURGH--March 8, 2005--Ansoft Corporation released a new version of AnsoftLinks(TM) that includes full support for Mentor Graphics PADS Layout (formerly PowerPCB(R)).

AnsoftLinks enables direct import of third-party PCB/CAD databases into Ansoft's electromagnetics software, including HFSS(TM), Q3D Extractor(TM) and SIwave(TM). "AnsoftLinks eliminates errors associated with manual design entry by directly linking our simulation tools into existing customer design flows," said Sherry Hess, Vice President of Marketing at Ansoft.

Additional enhancements in AnsoftLinks include:

-- Simplification of the vias option for solid-model export

-- Via fill option to define thickness in model units

-- Ability to define a number of facets for pads and antipads

-- Exportation of defeatured Ansoft files (.anf) with plane extents

-- Integration enhancements for other third-party tools from Cadence, Mentor Graphics, Synopsys and Zuken

Pricing and Availability:

AnsoftLinks v3.0.1 is available now for both Windows(R) and UNIX(R) platforms. Contact your nearest Ansoft sales office for pricing information.

To download a high-resolution screen capture showing a PADS Layout project within the AnsoftLinks interface, please go to ftp://ftp.ansoft.com/techsup/download/web/primg/powerpcb_alinks.tif.

About Ansoft

Ansoft is a leading developer of high-performance electronic design automation (EDA) software. Engineers use Ansoft software to design state-of-the-art electronic products, such as cellular phones, Internet-access devices, broadband networking components and systems, integrated circuits (ICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), automotive electronic systems and power electronics. Ansoft markets its products worldwide through its own direct sales force and has comprehensive customer-support and training offices throughout North America, Asia and Europe. To learn more, please visit www.ansoft.com.