It’s been said before that “design is intelligence made visible.” Just about everything in our modern world uses design. From the clothes we wear to the rooms we use for eating and sleeping, design is a fundamental element of life—and it takes the right strategy, knowledge, and understanding to make it into something good.
Designers of printed circuit boards know that the configuration process requires more than mere knowledge of circuit functionality. Whether you’re new to the PCB sector or have been around for a while, you should be aware of these tips to simplify your circuit board design process.
Be Smart With Your Space
A printed circuit board or tactile membrane switch is more than a blank design canvas—it’s free real estate to use as you please. That being said, you need to keep your design cost-effective. Stay away from spending more time and resources on the project than necessary.
Consider how to wisely spread out your components and streamline the space on your board. Balance is key to avoid too little or too much room. Use components that are as small as you need—and not as small as you can use. Larger, spread-out components simplify placement accuracy, accelerate the assembly process, and create an overall better design.
Design With Troubleshooting in Mind
What style is your PCB? In the world of circuit boards, single vs. double-sided PCBs relate to the level of the board’s complexity. You should make any designs as simple as possible for functionality—but not any simpler than that.
Keep future troubleshooting in mind as you go about the PCB design process. You need to leave easy access for work such as soldering or testing. Plan ahead with set points to avoid unnecessary complications or expenses when the time comes.
Component Orientation Matters
When considering these tips to simplify your circuit board design process, remember that orientation matters most to optimize the design. Your choice of component orientation has significant functional implications. Small mistakes can turn straightforward projects into big nuisances. Be mindful of the basic principles and streamlined guidelines to follow, such as soldering similar components in the same direction.
Taking everything into consideration, PCB design is a complex process. But it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Use these tips to clear up hurdles and pitfalls along the way. Time, patience, and a simplified design strategy will get your circuit board project to where it needs to be.
