Printed Circuit Boards: Top 5 Design Tips
PCB design requires meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to established procedures. If you skip steps and cut corners, your printed circuit board will eventually fail. Here are some tips that will help minimize defective boards.
1. Use Reputable PCB Design Software:
Yes, almost every CAD program can be utilized to layout a printed circuit board, but programs created for PCB design will help tremendously. The best part is that most of these programs are free. Packages such as PCB Artist include a variety of features to make PCB design quicker and easier, such as extensive libraries of components which can be added manually or automatically, plus diagnostics that can point out any areas in which a PCB needs work. A good software package will also allow for extensive customization while remaining easy to use, even by someone with limited knowledge of PCB fabrication.
2. Double and Triple Check:
Sometimes the problem occurs when the PCB manufacturer detects an error in the design after they have already started fabricating the printed circuit board. This is called a CAM hold This can delay an order by days or even longer. You can prevent these problems by utilizing the variety of tools provided by the manufacturer. Tools like FreeDFM from Advanced Circuits, will help designers find any problem areas by providing a detailed report for the design.
3. Space All Components Properly:
One you complete the design, print it out and lay the components down on the printed paper. Ensure they don’t touch each other and that the space between them is at least 0.007″. This will help prevent shorts.
4. Ensure that Angles of Narrow Traces Are Obtuse:
If you plan on placing traces less than 0.012″ wide, be sure you use two 45 degree angles instead of a single 90 degree angle. This helps out in the process of etching.
5. Be Sure About Your Component Placement:
It will usually cause a short if a metal component is set on a trace. Remember to place all components on the design printout to make sure no components are touching any traces.
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