This paper presents some of the engineering and programming developments wtuch have resulted from the University of Maryland RAMCAD (Reliability and Maintainability using Computer Aided Design) effort for printed circuit boards (PCBs) and wiring assemblies (PWA)s. The paper overviews some of the problems associated with the PCB design process, examines the present status of computer aided PCB design, and then dicusses the development of the University of Maryland RAMCAD system and the methods used to program for goal oriented design.