This course covers the entire basic printed circuit board (PCB) design process, including component library creation, schematic capture, and PCB layout. Students learn to use industry-standard software tools like Altium Designer to create detailed schematics and translate them into PCB layouts. Emphasis is placed on best practices for component placement, routing techniques, and design rule checks to ensure manufacturability and functionality. 

Through hands-on learning, students develop a strong understanding of component libraries, schematic best practices, and various methods for wiring schematics. They also explore the PCB structure setup, including mechanical layer assignments and layer stack-up considerations. The course covers design rule checks (DRC), component placement strategies, routing methodologies, and the use of polygons, pours, and planes in PCB design. Additionally, students learn about PCB verification, cleanup processes, and documentation preparation for fabrication and assembly. 

Upon completion, students can produce industry-standard documentation for analog and digital multi-layer, flexible, and high-speed PCBs, adhering to current IPC standards. This course provides the foundational knowledge and technical skills necessary for entry-level positions in the electronics industry or further study in advanced PCB design.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the course, you should be able to:

• Explain the fundamentals of the PCB design process including library principles, schematic creation, PCB design, and documentation.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using industry-standard tools such as Altium Designer and other PCB design software to create schematics and layouts.
• Create and manage component libraries, including symbol creation, footprints, and part data.
• Design multi-layer PCBs by integrating concepts of layer stack-ups, signal integrity, power distribution, and thermal management.
• Apply design rules and constraints to ensure PCB manufacturability and functionality, using design rule checks (DRC).
• Implement techniques for signal, power, and ground planes, including using vias and differential pairs.
• Prepare and evaluate manufacturing documentation such as Gerber files, assembly drawings, and bill of materials (BOM).