Week 8: Electronics Production

1. Toolpath Generation

The toolpath generation process is crucial for ensuring accurate milling. Here’s how it was done:

• Software Used: Generated the toolpath using software such as FlatCAM or KiCad.
• Trace Width: Defined appropriate trace widths for the board layout.
• Simulation: Simulated the toolpath to verify accuracy and avoid milling errors.

2. Making the Board

This section describes the process of milling, stuffing, and soldering the board:

• Milling: Used a CNC milling machine to cut the traces and outline the board.
• Stuffing: Placed components like resistors, capacitors, and ICs onto the board.
• Soldering: Soldered components onto the board, ensuring no cold joints or bridges.

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3. Functional Testing

Documenting the functionality of the board:

• Power-On Test: Verified that the board powers on without short circuits.
• Input/Output Test: Checked the GPIO pins, serial communication, and other features.
• Programming Test: Uploaded a test program to confirm the microcontroller is functioning.

4. Problems and Fixes

Challenges faced during the project and how they were resolved:

• Problem: Misaligned traces during milling.
  Solution: Rechecked the toolpath and ensured proper alignment on the CNC machine.
• Problem: Solder bridges on fine-pitch ICs.
  Solution: Used solder wick and reflowed solder joints.
• Problem: Microcontroller not responding.
  Solution: Debugged the power supply circuit and reprogrammed the bootloader.

6. Hero Shot

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