PCB Routing and Layout

Overview

The PCB routing and layout system in Altium Designer combines intelligent automation with precise manual control, providing designers with the flexibility to choose the best approach for each unique challenge. From basic two-layer boards to complex multi-layer designs with thousands of connections, these tools ensure professional results every time.

Core Technologies

Push & Shove Routing

Interactive routing technology that dynamically adjusts existing traces as you route new connections.

Real-time obstacle resolution - Automatically pushes existing routes aside to make room for new traces

Design rule compliance - Maintains clearances and constraints while routing

Smooth trace optimization - Creates clean, manufacturable routing patterns

Multi-layer support - Works seamlessly across all board layers

ActiveRoute (AI-assisted routing)

Artificial intelligence - powered routing that learns from your design patterns to accelerate layout completion.

Machine learning algorithms - Analyzes your routing style and applies it automatically

Guided routing - Suggests optimal paths based on design constraints

Batch routing - Routes multiple connections simultaneously

Quality optimization - Balances routing density with signal integrity

Differential Pair Routing

Specialized tools for routing high-speed differential signals with precise control.

Automatic pair matching - Maintains consistent spacing between differential traces

Length matching - Ensures equal trace lengths for optimal signal timing

Impedance control - Maintains target impedance throughout the routing path

Phase tolerance management - Controls timing skew between paired signals

Length Tuning

Advanced trace length matching for high-speed designs and timing-critical signals.

Accordion patterns - Automatically creates serpentine routes for length adjustment

Visual feedback - Real-time display of length differences and target values

Group tuning - Match multiple nets simultaneously

Tolerance control - Set precise matching requirements for different signal groups

Gloss & Optimize

Automated cleanup tools that refine your routing for improved manufacturability.

Trace smoothing - Removes unnecessary bends and jogs

Via optimization - Minimizes via count and improves signal quality

Angle correction - Converts traces to preferred angles (45° or 90°)

Spacing optimization - Maximizes clearances where possible

Design Reuse Blocks

Leverage proven circuit sections to accelerate new designs and ensure consistency.

Modular approach - Save complete routed sections as reusable blocks

Intelligent placement - Automatically adapts blocks to new board layouts

Connection preservation - Maintains routing patterns and relationships

Version management - Track and update reused blocks across projects

Key Benefits

Increased Productivity

Reduce routing time by up to 80% with intelligent automation

Focus on critical areas while automation handles routine connections

Batch operations for repetitive tasks

Signal Integrity

Built-in high-speed design rules ensure optimal performance

Real-time impedance calculations

Automatic length matching for timing-critical signals

Design Quality

Consistent routing patterns across the entire board

Automated design rule checking during routing

Professional, manufacturable results

Flexibility

Seamlessly switch between manual and automated routing

Customizable routing strategies for different design areas

Support for all board technologies from simple to HDI

Integration with Design Flow

PCB Routing and Layout tools are deeply integrated with other Altium Designer features:

Schematic synchronization - Automatic updates from schematic changes

3D visualization - Real-time 3D view during routing

Design rule system - Comprehensive constraint management

Manufacturing checks - Built-in DFM verification

Best Practices

Define clear design rules before starting routing

Use hierarchy to organize complex designs

Leverage automation for initial routing, then refine manually

Regularly run design rule checks during the routing process

Utilize design reuse for proven circuit sections

Summary

Altium Designer's PCB Routing and Layout tools provide the perfect balance of automation and control, enabling designers to create high-quality boards efficiently. Whether you're working on a simple two-layer design or a complex HDI board with thousands of connections, these tools adapt to your needs while maintaining the highest standards of signal integrity and manufacturability.