TRM is Thermal Analysis plus PDN (power distribution network). Coupled or separated.
What does TRM ?
TRM ("Thermal Risk Management") is a simulation software. It calculates the expected temperature of a printed circuit board in detail based on the currents and the component heating and its cooling.
What is the advantage of TRM?
If you work with E-CAD layout software and don't want to get used to complex finite elements, TRM is the right tool: universal, easy to use and inexpensive.
How does TRM work?
Take a look at this short demo: Video (15 MB)
Can I import traces from my CAD software?
Yes, export Gerber files and import them into TRM. A bitmap import is also possible.
Do I already need to have a layout for a calculation?
No. The simple graphical editor handles rectangles and circles from which very simple copper assignments can be drawn and calculated immediately. It is also possible to draw components in this way.
Can I import the drill files from my CAD software?
Yes, export Gerber, Excellon or IDF files and import them into TRM. There you can select whether it is PTH, NPTH or a solid pin. Galvanic copper thickness, through-hole, blind hole or buried hole are parameters.
Can I import the components from my CAD software?
Yes, export IDF files and import them into TRM. You can process them in table form or graphically or add new components. Other tables with position and size can also be imported.
What other interfaces are there?
In principle, all ASCII data can be converted and imported. If you have special requirements and specifications, then individual solutions can be developed and licensed.
Since Nov 2014 there is an interface tool for Altium Designer, with which you can maintain, redirect and filter the necessary data on the basis of the nets. Since Oct 2022 a similar interface is available for Fusion/EAGLE. Since 2023 for CADENCE Allegro and since 2024 for ZUKEN eCADSTAR.
How accurate is TRM?
If input data and laboratory values are well matched, an accuracy of +-5% can be achieved to the thermal camera.
Which physics is TRM doing?
The 3D sifferential versions of potential and Fourier equations are solved. Currents are DC currents which are fed in and out via plugs or on pads. Electricity and component heat diffuses in the panel and is transferred to the ambient air via a flat-rate heat transfer coefficient. This coefficient also contains the proportion of radiation.
Do I need detailed component models?
No. Components in TRM have no internal geometry for now. The easiest way is to assign an average thermal conductivity from the database. If the Rjunction-board and Rjunction-case values from a data sheet can be trusted, you can enter them for a 2-resistance model.
Do I have to know about fluid dynamics?
No, because a TRM user is a PCB layouter or electronics developer. Nevertheless, you can control the influence of housing and fans by selecting the heat exchange coefficient. A software wizard helps.
Can TRM calculate time-dependent?
Yes, you can either let the power and current have a permanent effect and calculate the heating curve, or the current and power are controlled by a csv file. Virtual thermocouples record the temperature curves.
Can I calculate with TRM FR4 plates only?
As long as the PCB is flat, any technology can be treated: Substrates with improved thermal conductivity, wirelaid and stamped parts, press-in technique, ceramics (DCB), dielectric bonded to metal plates (IMS).
Which installation situations can be considered?
As standard, the printed circuit board is either vertically in free convection or blown at a certain air velocity. It can also be glued to a finned heat sink, placed on housing domes or the heat can be transferred via a cable via clamping wedges.
What are the output options?
TRM automatically generates color images of all variables in all layers and a report file. The top and bottom temperature images are the calculated infrared thermograms. The result files are ASCII, so you can also use your own software for result evaluation.