Weekly Assignments Final Project About me

6. Electronics Design

This page documents my Week 6 workflow based on the Electronics Design assignment: from project setup in KiCad to schematic, PCB layout, manufacturing outputs, and production-oriented updates.

link to the group assignment https://fabacademy.org/2026/labs/chaihuo/docs/week6/week6_group_assignment/

How to Complete Week 6

Step 1: File Sharing
Step 2: Preparation
  • Install and launch KiCad.
  • Download and unzip the Fab Academy KiCad library.
  • Use this command if needed: git clone https://gitlab.fabcloud.org/pub/libraries/electronics/kicad.git.
Step 3: Create a Project and Import Libraries
  • Create a new KiCad project.
  • Import the symbol library in Manage Symbol Libraries.
    • Symbol library
  • Import the footprint library in Manage Footprint Libraries.
    • Footprint library
  • Set the library path in Settings -> Configure Paths so 3D models load correctly.
    • Library path
Step 4: Draw the Schematic
  • Place the main MCU.
  • Add required components such as an LED, switch/button, headers, and resistors.
    • Schematic
  • Create the switch-resistor logic (for example, a pull-down resistor setup).
    • Schematic
  • Complete wiring and verify all net connections.
    • Schematic Schematic
Step 5: Draw the PCB Layout
  • Use Update Schematic to PCB to transfer the design to board view.
    • PCB Layout
  • Set board rules (trace width, clearance, and related constraints).
    • PCB Layout
  • Place components and route traces.
    • PCB Layout PCB Layout
  • Draw the board outline on Edge.Cuts.
  • Run DRC and resolve all reported issues.
    • PCB Layout
  • Review the board in 3D Viewer.
    • PCB Layout
Step 6: Update PCB for Fabrication Quality
  • Round board corners on Edge.Cuts (for example, 3 mm radius).
  • Add teardrops via Edit -> Add Teardrops.
  • Add a copper fill on F.Cu using net GND, then refill zones with b.
    • PCB Layout
  • Keep safe spacing between copper zones and signal traces.
Step 7: Export Manufacturing Outputs
  • Export Gerber files from KiCad.
  • Convert F_Cu.gbr and Edge_Cut.gbr to PNG using Gerber2Png.
  • Import PNG files into Mods to generate CNC toolpaths / G-code (trace and cut).
  • Publish final screenshots and output files in your documentation.

Reference Links

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