PCB Design: Layout Techniques and Design Rules

With advancements in technology and streamlined ordering processes, printed circuit board fabrication is attainable for anybody with some DIY electronics knowledge. Custom printed circuit boards have made it possible for many electronics lovers to become inventors in their own homes. Click here to learn more about custom PCBs.

Common Layout Tactics and Design Rules in Printed Circuit Board Design and Fabrication

Here are a few tips and tricks for those who are novices in printed circuit board design. There is certainly much more to learn about PCBs, but these hints should get you started.

Select Quality Materials

Printed circuit board construction requires quality materials. Whether fabricating your own custom PCB or using a 3rd party manufacturer, choose the best materials available. Your board’s performance and durability depend on it.

Work to Grids

When aligning the board components, you should utilize the visible grid or snap grid functions in the design software program. This will aid in symmetrical design layouts that will make visually appealing designs. It will also be easier to edit your design and align your tracks.

Separate the Grounds

Sometimes a custom printed circuit board will necessitate digital circuits and analog circuits. It is so crucial the both circuits has a unique ground. If they were to come in contact with each other, operations would be disrupted. For more information about custom PCBs, click here.

Avoid Any Noise

Noise happens when there are tracks on the board that are too close in proximity. If a current from another circuit creates noise it will disrupt the boards functionality. Noise can also be caused by currents from some other external circuit and/or currents coming from other outside sources. If you are creating your own custom printed circuit board, it is crucial that you keep each internal circuit separate from the others, and keep all of the internal circuits safe from external interruptions.

Regulate Heat

Any unnecessary heat can really hurt the functionality of a PCB. This can be prevented by working with components that use a small amount of power, thus not creating much heat. Using fans, separating components from areas of high heat, and utilizing heat sinks are also ways to eliminate heat build-up.

Run a Design Rule Check

Your PCB design software most likely has automated Design Rule Checking (DRC) that will check your custom PCB design for connectivity, clearance, and other design errors. Your design software may also have real-time DRC that checks your design as you are designing. As you are designing the board, this real time DRC will not allow you to finish any action that is erroneous. Click here for more custom PCB information.

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