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Wires must touch to make a connection Use NetLabels to label all wires Can make your life easier in PCB layout For large complicated designs, connect by net rather than by connection Use buses Must label all signals pulled from buses Ensure that VCC and GND are labeled correctly (everywhere) No shorts (like VCC and GND, for example)ħ Steps Draw schematics Attach footprints for all componentsĨ Footprints Choose all parts before finalizing schematicĬhoose (hand-solderable) packaging: Through-hole: DIP, PLCC, etc. CohnĬSE 477 – Hardware Capstone University of WashingtonĢ Steps Draw schematics Attach footprints for all componentsĬompile design Assign design rules Place components Check design rules Route PCB Generate manufacturing filesģ Terminology Net – representation of a signal (wire) and all of its connections SMT – surface mount component Trace (track) – metal connections on PCB between components Pad – metal on PCB where component is soldered Via – plated through-hole in PCB to connect traces on 2 sides Mil – 1/1000 of an inch (don’t confuse with mm) Pitch – spacing between pins DRC – design rule check Rat’s Nest – point-to-point drawings of all un-routed connectionsĤ Steps Draw schematics Attach footprints for all componentsĥ Schematics Components Power Testing Find in Altium librariesĭraw your own Double-check the pins Connect “hidden” pins to the correct net Power Use bypass caps for all ICs Use large filter cap on power supply Testing Test points on power lines Test points on important signals Use Power LED (for basic signs of life)Ħ Schematic Hints Use multi-sheet schematics for large designs 1 PCB Design Using Altium Designer/DXP/Protel Gabe A.