The design process of the development board usually includes the following key steps:
1. Preliminary preparation
Understand the requirements: clarify the purpose, functional requirements, performance indicators, etc. of the development board to provide guidance for subsequent design work.
Select components: Select appropriate components according to the requirements, including main control chips, power modules, interface circuits, etc. This step requires careful reference to the data sheets of relevant components to ensure the correctness and compatibility of the selection.
2. Schematic design
Draw the circuit diagram: Use professional circuit design software (such as Altium Designer, AD for short) to draw the circuit diagram of the development board. The circuit diagram should clearly show the connection relationship between each component.
Marking and annotation: Add necessary markings and annotations to the circuit diagram for subsequent production and debugging. The marking should include information such as the model, package, and pin number of the component.
3. PCB design
Layout design: Place the components in the circuit diagram on the PCB according to the actual size and layout requirements. The layout should consider factors such as the flow direction of the signal, the spacing between components, and heat dissipation.
Wiring design: Wiring is performed on the PCB according to the connection relationship in the circuit diagram. Wiring should follow electrical rules and aesthetic requirements to ensure signal stability and transmission quality.
Copper plating and via processing: Copper layers are laid on the PCB to improve the anti-interference ability and heat dissipation performance of the circuit. At the same time, the vias that need to be connected are processed to ensure the smooth flow of signals.
IV. Rule checking and optimization
DRC check: Use the DRC (Design Rule Check) function in the PCB design software to check to ensure that the design meets electrical rules and manufacturing requirements.
Optimize layout and wiring: According to the results of the DRC check, optimize the layout and wiring to improve the performance and reliability of the circuit.
V. File output and manufacturing
Output manufacturing files: Output the designed PCB files to the format required for manufacturing (such as Gerber files) so that they can be sent to PCB manufacturers for production.
Manufacturing and patching: Send the PCB files to the manufacturer for production, and perform subsequent work such as patching (SMT) after production is completed. Patch is the process of soldering components to the PCB according to the requirements of the circuit diagram.
VI. Testing and debugging
Functional testing: Functional testing of the produced development board to ensure the normal operation of each module and interface.
Debugging and optimization: Debug and optimize according to the test results to solve possible problems and defects.
VII. Document writing and archiving
Writing documents: Write detailed documents for the development board, including circuit diagrams, PCB layout diagrams, component lists, test reports, etc.
Archiving management: Archive the documents for subsequent production and maintenance work.
In summary, the design process of the development board is a complex and meticulous process that requires careful planning, strict execution and continuous optimization. Through scientific design processes and rigorous work attitudes, it can be ensured that the performance and reliability of the development board meet the requirements.
