Europe's Central Platform for Electronics Design: 2nd PEDC in Prague Strengthens Networking and Innovation
Following the successful kick-off last year, the second Pan-European Electronics Design Conference (PEDC) in Prague marks an important step for the European electronics industry. Jointly organized by the German Electronics Design and Manufacturing Association (FED) and the Global Electronics Association, the conference has evolved into a central platform for cross-border knowledge transfer. With participants from 19 countries and 3 continents, the format confirms its aim to promote collaboration in electronics design on a global scale.
Strategic Harmonization and Resilient Ecosystems
In their opening remarks, Dieter Mueller, Chairman of the FED, and Matt Kelly, CTO of the Global Electronics Association, emphasized the event’s importance for Europe as a technology hub. Dieter Mueller highlighted the strategic component: "This year's PEDC in Prague has clarified the urgency of harmonizing design processes at a European level. It is no longer just about exchanging best practices, but about actively shaping a resilient ecosystem that meets the demands of AI integration and technological sustainability."
Keynotes: AI Transformation, Sustainability, and Communication
The two-day program combined visionary keynotes, 36 technical presentations, and hands-on panel discussions to provide strategic input on the industry’s central transformations.
While Tomide Adesanmi (Circuit Mind) pragmatically analyzed the potentials and limits of AI automation in hardware design, Alexander Gerfer (Wuerth Elektronik eiSos) highlighted the infrastructural adjustments needed to sustainably meet the massive energy demand of AI through modern power electronics. Additionally, Simon Seereiner (Weidmueller) and Thomas Keller (Rosenberger) presented Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) as the future communication standard for seamless connectivity from the sensor to the cloud.
In subsequent panel discussions, experts and decision-makers explored how these innovations can accelerate the design process without losing sight of ecological responsibility or the resilience of the European supply chain.
Growing Exhibition and Networking
A particular highlight in Prague was the significantly expanded trade exhibition. Featuring 18 exhibitors, the industry showcased an impressive variety of solutions and services around electronics design. The exhibition floor evolved into a vibrant marketplace where solutions were actively discussed during breaks. The event was rounded off by a networking reception, providing participants with the opportunity to establish contacts in an informal setting and strengthen international collaboration.
Conclusion and Strategic Outlook
The results of the second PEDC are overwhelmingly positive. The successful cooperation between the FED and the Global Electronics Association has created a format that addresses the specific needs of European designers while setting global trends.
"The positive feedback and the high level of internationality, with guests from 19 countries, show us that the PEDC has filled a gap in the European conference landscape," concluded Christoph Bornhorn (Executive Director, FED). The success in Prague sends a strong signal for the further development of this conference.
PEDC 2026 photos available for download
About FED
The Electronics Design and Manufacturing Association (FED) represents the interests of 700 members, including printed circuit board designers and manufacturers, EMS and EDA companies, process and technology service providers as well as suppliers of manufacturing equipment, software and materials. FED provides its members with guidance and support on technical business processes and decisions. One focus of the association’s work is the preparation and transfer of specialist knowledge and the qualification of electronics professionals. Learn more at www.fed.de
Contact:
Fachverband Elektronikdesign und -fertigung e. V.
Jennifer Jurkovic
Marketing Manager
Phone: +49(0)30 340 6030-53
j.jurkovic@fed.de
