Basic PCB Design

This section covers essential electronic components, starting with Active Components like transistors and diodes, and Passive Components such as resistors and capacitors. You’ll learn about Component Symbols used in schematics, and explore Different Types of Packages for mounting components on PCBs. We also provide an Overview of PCB Software, introducing various tools for designing and managing your PCB layouts. This module equips you with the fundamental knowledge needed to select and use components effectively in your designs.

This module introduces key concepts and terminology crucial for PCB design. You’ll learn about hole types like PTH (Plated Through Hole), NPTH (Non-Plated Through Hole), and via, as well as pad stack configurations. Explore essential layers such as the silk, assembly, solder mask, and mechanical layers, and understand their roles in the design process. We’ll cover Layer Stack Up and principles of DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly). Gain insights into managing library elements including symbols, footprints, and documentation, and understand grid and placement guidelines for accurate component positioning. Additionally, learn about EMI/EMC, length matching, and crosstalk management, alongside routing guidelines, both auto and manual, and techniques like copper pouring and thermal relief. Finally, get acquainted with manufacturer data (Gerber files) for effective production. This module provides a solid foundation in PCB terminology and best practices.

This module covers key practices for effective PCB creation. You’ll learn Analog Design principles for managing analog signals, Digital Design strategies for handling digital circuits, and Routing Rules for trace width and spacing. We also cover Placement Rules for optimal component arrangement and Power and GND Copper Pouring techniques to ensure reliable power distribution and reduce noise. These guidelines are essential for designing high-performance, reliable PCBs.

Software Introduction module! Here, we provide an overview of the Cadstar tool, a powerful PCB design software. You’ll start by understanding the basics of Cadstar and its features. Learn the steps for designing a layout, from initial setup to final touches. We’ll guide you through setting up a new project, including configuring essential elements such as drawing templates, design rule checks (DRC), and library paths. This module ensures you have a solid foundation in using Cadstar to efficiently create and manage your PCB designs.

This section covers the essentials of creating and managing libraries in PCB design. You’ll learn how to create a new library, develop new symbols for schematic representation, and design new pad stacks for component footprints. We’ll guide you through creating new footprints and ensuring accurate mapping of symbols with footprints to ensure seamless integration in your designs. This module provides the tools and knowledge needed to effectively manage and utilize libraries for efficient PCB design.

This section provides a detailed guide on developing effective schematics for PCB design. You’ll start with entry of a new schematic, learning how to place and connect components accurately. Understand the rules for schematic entry to ensure clarity and correctness, and perform ERC (Electrical Rule Check) and Connection Check to identify and resolve design issues. We’ll cover how to annotate the design for clear identification of components and adjust schematic plots and color settings for better visualization. Finally, learn how to transfer your schematic to PCB for layout and further development. This module equips you with the skills to create accurate and functional schematics for your PCB projects.

This section guides you through the complete process of designing a PCB board. Begin with creating a new PCB project and setting up essential parameters like DRC (Design Rule Check) and layer stack-up for a two-layer board. Learn to create a board outline to define the physical dimensions of your PCB. Follow with placement of components, ensuring optimal arrangement for functionality and manufacturability. Next, master routing to connect components effectively and perform copper pouring for reliable power distribution and ground connections. Finally, you’ll learn to arrange text, reference designators, and add electrical text and other data to complete your PCB design. This module provides a comprehensive approach to developing a fully functional PCB layout.

This section covers the final steps in preparing your PCB design for manufacturing. Start with setting up for Gerber data, configuring your design files for production. Learn to generate Gerber data for a two-layer board, which is essential for creating the physical PCB. Follow with generating plots of your design to visualize and verify the final layout. You’ll also create a BOM (Bill of Materials) list, detailing all components used in the design. Finally, discover how to manage PCB data effectively, ensuring all files and documentation are organized and ready for manufacturing. This module equips you with the tools to finalize and prepare your PCB design for production.

This module focuses on ensuring the quality and accuracy of your PCB design before manufacturing. Start by using a checklist for layout, which helps you systematically review your design for completeness and compliance with specifications. Conduct a thorough layout review to catch any design errors or inconsistencies. Utilize online Gerber viewers to visually inspect your Gerber files and confirm that they match your design intentions. Finally, perform a detailed Gerber data review to ensure all layers and components are correctly represented and that the data is ready for production. This module provides essential practices for validating your PCB design and preparing it for successful manufacturing.