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Currently, designers have devised new auto alignment and placement tools in the development of PCB (Printed Circuit Board) software. This has made the process of placing circuit board elements an easy task. It is worth noting that technological advancements can eclipse good PCB component placement practices. This may cause various complications such as electrical interference.
Anyone interested in PCB design can do so regardless of their level of experience. There are numerous online resources where individuals can find useful information about the same. PCB Visual Indicators for Serviceability can be used in various fields. This article tackles factors to consider while designing PCB prototypes for medical gadgets and can be utilized on various other designs as well.
Leave room for future modifications
While designing a PCB board for the first time, designers should bear in mind that they are likely to encounter inconsistency and non-effectiveness. Ensuring that the traces can be easily accessed from the top most layers enables designers to remove the solder mask with minimal struggle. Consider enlarging the test points and vias to make the process of soldering jumpers easy whenever necessary. Remember, placing components close to each makes it hard to modify the boards when the need arises. It is important to leave enough space in between components to avoid difficulties.
Factor in the Testing and Debugging Process in Your Design
Consider incorporating test points in the design which can be linked on the signal traces, and the power supply output. Place them at random areas of your board to enhance the testing process. Remember that testing the points from the exposed side of the board is easier once the board is installed.
Remember that Serviceability and Ease of Assembly are Vital in the Design
PCB design includes a series of routing. Designers are likely to forget some vital steps along the way, which the device assemblers may be able to notice easily. Ensure that the connectors are appropriately arranged to make them easy to connect to the cables. Remember to export a 3D copy of the brand to enable a virtual fit test during the assembly. Confirm the pads linked to ground fills include a thermal aid connection to alleviate solderability.
Do Not Leave Open Holes
Sometimes designers are not certain about sub circuits or components they may need in future. For example, one may not understand the importance of an RC low pass filter on an analog input. In this case, the designer can replace the low pass filter with a zero ohm resistor where a real resistor would have been. This ensures that no circuits are left open.
Include Extra Copper
Ensure that each layer contains a ground plane. These can be linked together using vertical interconnect access connection. In the event where the board comes with both digital and analog sub-circuits, ensure to separate the ground planes. This reduces the sound that digital circuits convey on analog circuits.
Finally
Remember that voltage regulators or power transistors may produce lots of heat in certain applications. Designers should incorporate clearance between the components to avoid disrupting normal functionality.