Once you’ve got your schematics, you need to complete the circuit board design—a process also called circuit board routing. PCB design requires you to lay out your circuit as it will appear, and if you get it wrong, you can wind up with an unreliable PCB. Read on to learn four design tips for a printed circuit board.
Don’t Only Use an Autoroute
Almost all PCB design software comes with an “autoroute” feature that takes this complex process out of your hands. However, autorouting is not perfect, and you shouldn’t rely on it to provide a flawless PCB.
We recommend using the “autoroute” feature once you’ve placed all your components. The tool is great for checking your completion rating—if you find that you’re below 85-percent completion, you should adjust your component placement.
Use Sufficient Trace Width
A trace width calculator is an essential tool when determining your trace width. Otherwise, you may have trouble with excess heat in your PCB. This is because copper traces on the board generate heat when current flows through them.
As long as your trace width stays within the values given by your manufacturer’s specifications, you can adjust the trace width values. Remember that you can use larger trace widths than the calculator tells you, but you can’t use smaller widths.
Consider Component Placement
Component placement is critical for success. For example, heat-sensitive capacitors shouldn’t be placed near diodes that generate heat. Always remember that components with more pins need more space. Often, designers pack components together and then realize that they didn’t leave enough space for routing traces.
Don’t Forget About EMI
Printed circuit boards are susceptible to electromagnetic interference, and this can cause all sorts of problems with performance down the line. There are a few ways to protect your PCB from EMI, so reach out to an EMI shielding expert to learn how you can prevent interference.
Now that you know these four design tips for a printed circuit board, you’re ready to create an efficient PCB without any hiccups!
Winter storms are sweeping across the US, bringing snow emergencies in the Northeast and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. Stay safe with driving tips, shelter resources, and pet care guidance, plus direct links to emergency services.
Use official sources for live alerts and road conditions. Follow your local authorities' advice and guidance immediately by staying off roads or evacuating.
Current situation across the United States
Severe winter weather is affecting multiple regions across the country. In the Northeast, heavy snow and ice are creating hazardous travel conditions, while the Pacific Northwest is dealing with widespread flooding, evacuations, saturated ground, and powerful winds. Staying prepared, remaining aware of conditions, and knowing where to find shelter are essential for keeping both people and pets safe.
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A Morning That Changed the World
On a clear morning that remains etched into the pages of history, aircraft appeared over Pearl Harbor and the United States Pacific Fleet was struck in a surprise assault. In fewer than two hours, battleships burned, aircraft were destroyed on the ground, and more than 2,400 American service members and civilians lost their lives. The attack thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II and set in motion a series of events that would transform both the Pacific and the world.
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