Week 8: Electronics Production

PCB design → fabrication → soldering → testing workflow

1. Introduction

Electronics Production is the process of designing and fabricating printed circuit boards (PCBs) that connect electronic components into a working system. This project covers the full workflow from design to a working microcontroller board.

2. Tools Used

KiCad – PCB design software
Mods Project – toolpath generation
Candle CNC – machine control
CNC Milling Machine – PCB fabrication
Copper board – PCB material
Soldering iron – component assembly
Electronic components – microcontroller, resistors, LEDs, capacitors

3. Workflow Process

1. Circuit Design in KiCad

I designed the schematic and PCB layout using KiCad.

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Insert PCB layout image

2. Export PCB Files

The PCB was exported as SVG/PNG for CNC milling.

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3. Toolpath Generation (Mods Project)

Toolpaths were generated using Mods Project for CNC machining.

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4. CNC Milling Process

The CNC machine engraved copper traces from the PCB design.

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Insert PCB milling image

5. Cleaning & Inspection

The PCB was cleaned and checked for errors or broken traces.

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6. Soldering Components

All components were soldered carefully using flux and a fine-tip iron.

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Insert assembled PCB image

7. Testing the PCB

The final board was powered and tested for functionality.

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4. Learning Outcomes

PCB design using KiCad
CNC PCB fabrication workflow
Toolpath generation using Mods Project
Soldering and electronics assembly
Testing and debugging circuits

5. Lessons Learned

I learned that PCB design requires precision. Small mistakes can affect the whole circuit. Each step from design to testing must be done carefully.

6. Conclusion

This assignment helped me understand the full electronics production workflow from design to a working PCB. I gained hands-on experience in design, fabrication, soldering, and testing.