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7. Electronics design

So, In this week in need to build a Micro-controller, know as [MCU](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcontroller#:~:text=A%20microcontroller%20(MCU%20for%20microcontroller,and%20programmable%20input%2Foutput%20peripherals.).

So, I used “KiCad software” to design my PCB.

So, I started this week by downloading KiCad Software. The reason, I choose KiCad, is open-source and has easy settings. So here are some step, Which I followed to complete the installation.

Step-1

Step-2

Step-3

Step-3

Step-4

After Downloading this Software. I would recommend you to watch this tutorial.. to understand, How to use KiCad efficiently.

So, moreover to add foot print, or symbols of a electronics component you use snapEDA. It is webiste were you can download foot print amd symbols. Add the files to your Kicad library to access them, in your project.

for this week, I have designed a FTDI, it’s name is MASK-FTDI

For FTDI you don’t required any Firmware, you can plug the chip to USB Directly, and you can use them

This is the Schematic of MASK-FTDI..

The FTDI chip, which i used here is FT232RL.. it is a old FTDI chip..

Moreover, I KiCad you can view 3D view of your board.. like this..

3D view of MASK-FTDI

Original Look of MASK_FTDI

Working of MASK-FTDI..

To make this ftdi to work.. I had to make the FDTI-board 4 times.. and in the 4th time I was able to get this proper output..

Reasons for the failure

  • Tiny.. trace joints
  • wrong connection to the D- and D+

Tiny.. trace joints

you need to cut these joints in order to work, with paper cutter or any sharp tools. Moreover, there was need of Digital microscope to Identify these trace joints. Hence, it is necessary to have digital microsopy for technical debugging.

Wrong Connection to the D- and D+

You need just verify your schematic,D- of ftdi should be connected to D- of usb and D+ of ftdi should be connected to D+ of usb

if you connected your ftdi.. likewise, you will get the out like this..

Maskduino.

This is the Schematic of MASK-Duino..

As this is a THT(Through Hole Board) the Schematic is Revered

The IC, which i used here is Atmega328p.. it is IC used for Arduino UNO Board..

Moreover, I KiCad you can view 3D view of your board.. like this..

3D view of MASK-Duino


Last update: May 29, 2021