Building a PCB

EE348 Spring 2015

References:
Circuit Designers Companion. I use the
second edition.
www.expresspcb.com where to download the
schematic and layout program
www.expresspcb/ExpressPCBHtm/Tips.htm
www.expresspcb/ExpressPCBHtm/Free_schem
atic_software.htm
Procedure
1. Draw a schematic by hand
2. Reenter the schematic ino LTSpice.
Simulate and make sure your circuit works.
3. Reenter your schematic into ExpressSCH.
Make sure you include input, output and
power connectors. Every component must
have a Reference designator (R5 C3 J1 Q7
etc.)

4. Use the command File/Check schematic

for netlist errors. Make sure it passes
5. Use the command Edit/Copy bill of
materials to the clipboard
6. Start a spreadsheet program, and import
the clipboard data
7. Add additional columns to the spread
sheet. We need to end up with columns for:
Reference designator
Part Description or name
Value (Ohms Farads etc)
Manufacturers Part Number
Distributor ordering number
Package Outline/Footprint
8. Now go to www.digikey.com or
www.mouser.com and choose your exact
parts. Both of these sites have really good
search engines, with real time information
about price and delivery time.

9. For every parts you choose you need to

find the package name, package dimensions
or the footprint for the part. This
information is listed on the datasheet for the
part, and can be located through Digikey or
Mouser
10. Now you can start the layout.
First deal with the mechanical issues
How many board layers?
Will you have a ground plane?
What board material?
Solder Mask?
Silk screen?
Board Thickness?
Trace width?
How will you mount the board? Do you need
some mounting holes?
Board Size (length and width)
For the class project I suggest:

2 layer
FR4 or G10 material
Ground plane
3.8 x 2.5 inches (the ExpressPCB
Miniboard)

11. Now draw the board outline, and start

placing components. This is when you use
the spreadsheet to you what size part to
place.
12. When all the components are placed,
and you have added mounting holes, start
laying traces (wiring things together). Make
frequent use of the button that shows net
connections. This makes sure that your
schematic and PCB match.