week 6: Electronics Design

1. Learnings in Electronics Design

Electronics design involves creating functional circuits and PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) to meet specific requirements. Here are some key areas of learning:

• Component Selection: Understanding how to choose resistors, capacitors, diodes, and ICs for specific purposes.
• Schematic Design: Using tools like Eagle or KiCad to create clear and functional circuit diagrams.
• PCB Layout: Arranging components efficiently, ensuring proper routing, and following design rules to avoid issues during fabrication.
• Testing and Simulation: Verifying the design using simulation tools to ensure correct functionality before manufacturing.
• Design Optimization: Learning to minimize noise, improve power distribution, and reduce manufacturing costs through smart design practices.

2. Moving to Fabrication

Verifying the design for manufacturability ensures that the PCB can be fabricated without errors. Key steps include:

• Design Rule Check (DRC): Ensured that the design adheres to the manufacturer’s constraints, such as minimum trace width and clearance.
• Gerber File Generation: Exported Gerber files and verified them using a viewer to ensure accuracy.
• Manufacturer Compatibility: Checked that the PCB specifications, like layer count and material type, match the capabilities of the chosen fabricator.

3. Problems faced while designing

Designing electronics often involves troubleshooting and resolving issues. Here are some common challenges and their solutions:

• Problem: Incorrect trace width causing resistance issues.
  Solution: Adjusted the trace width based on current requirements using a PCB calculator.
• Problem: Overlapping signals leading to noise or interference.
  Solution: Routed high-frequency and sensitive signals separately, added ground planes for shielding.
• Problem: Components placed too close, causing soldering difficulties.
  Solution: Increased spacing between components and re-routed traces for better accessibility.

4. Included Original Design Files

The original design files for the project are included below. They are in formats compatible with popular PCB design tools:

• KiCad Files: Download KiCad Design Files

5. Included a ‘Hero Shot’

The final product or assembled PCB is showcased below as a hero shot to highlight the end result of the design and fabrication process.