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Transmode Improves Product Creation and Certification Processes with Empower PLM

Product News Monday, October 28, 2013: EngNet - Engineering Network

Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Transmode is a global provider of packet-optical networking solutions that enable fixed line and mobile network operators to cost effectively address the capacity needs created by the rapid growth in video and data traffic. These solutions are important building blocks in next-generation high-speed optical networks that support services such as broadband backhaul, mobile data backhaul, video delivery services and cloud computing.

Since 2000 the company has installed more than 40,000 systems for over 500 fixed and mobile network operators, service providers, large enterprises and public institutions in over 45 countries across the globe.

Challenge/Situation:

Aging Engineering Tools and Manual Processes

In 2005 Transmode began experiencing the side-effects of aging design tools, and manually handling Bill of Materials (BOMs) via spreadsheets. They found it difficult to get good control over their product documents and files and also needed a way to better handle requirements for Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliance. The company determined that it was time to update their old systems with a progressive solution that would provide structure around their product design processes.

Solution:

PLM with Direct Integration with Cadence^® OrCAD^®

As Transmode began the process of revising their product design and development systems, their first update was to their engineering design environment. The company selected OrCAD from Cadence Design Systems as their Electronic Computer Aided Design (ECAD) system and Omnify Software (which offers a direct integration with OrCAD) as their Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system. The Empower PLM system would alleviate Transmode’s issues with manual processes for component data, Approved Vendor List (AVL), BOM, engineering change, and document management. In addition, the PLM software provided the ability to identify, track and report on information required to effectively meet RoHS compliance.

Customer Success:

Improved Engineering and Design for Compliance Processes

Today, Omnify Empower PLM is used throughout Transmode to provide appropriate parties with access to information about products, revisions, documents, suppliers, etc. As a result of implementing Empower PLM, Transmode now has effective control over the creation and certification of their products with respect to RoHS, lifecycle and LTB (Last Time to Buy). “Using the Empower PLM workflow engine allows us to easily handle the approval of files and structures from the first stage at R&D all the way through to manufacturing,” stated Mikael Kalla, Configuration Manager at Transmode.

The direct integration with OrCAD provides Transmode engineers with live AVL and lifecycle information available directly within their schematic capture environment, which simplifies the component selection process. “For new components, we have setup component request procedures that facilitate immediate use in the schematic design environment while simultaneously routing electronically for review and approval,” said Mr. Kalla. “This ensures that the finished design does not encounter supply chain management issues such as long lead times or obsolescence risk, which saves us time and money.”

Improving their product design and development processes with Empower PLM demonstrates Transmode’s dedication to continue to remain at the forefront of packet-optical networking solutions that meet today's and tomorrow's high capacity requirements.