Curious about how to design a quality PCB project that properly meets your needs? No matter your level of experience, the design process is relatively complex. Successful PCB design projects follow specific strategies and fundamental steps to ensure organization and functionality. You can’t simply put a mishmash of components together and hope for the best.

Never fear—we’ve compiled a list of top tips and techniques to prevent wasting time and resources and help you avoid potential circuit board failures. Here’s a closer look at printed circuit board design: three helpful tips for beginners.

Kickstart With Software Schematics

Resist the urge to skip the schematic step. Regardless of how daunting the prospect is, this tactic is key to developing a complete and usable layout. Keep in mind that the schematic visually represents the circuit—becoming an identifiable reference for vital information. Fortunately, newer PCB design software provides more intuitive options to create a viable framework. This golden backbone grants designers greater clarity to make decisions easier. If used correctly, you’re doing yourself a true favor.

Choose Components and Placement Wisely

Striving for true cost savings? Newbie PCB designers must consider several factors in the early stages of printed circuit board design. Determining the necessary components and project materials ahead of time is one of the three most helpful tips for beginners. Selecting the right components is essential—choose elements that are easily available on the market, maintainable, and reliable. The choices that make up your completed Bill of Materials (BOM) will affect overall PCB quality, capacity, durability, and cost.

When it comes to PCB components, don’t forget about wise placement. Optimizing your design requires mindful spacing to prevent compromising quality and performance. Each design has its one-of-a-kind needs—consider multiple configurations and creative adjustments to compare your options. Select the best design opportunity for your project’s innovation.

Double Check Your Work: Communicate With Manufacturer

After beginning your design or nearing the stage of purchasing PCBS, reach out to an expert printed circuit board manufacturer with questions or guidance concerns. Know the fabricator you plan to use and inquire about pre-order assistance. Professionals on staff can help review your design, inspect the layout and traces, and offer knowledgeable industry advice. After perfecting your design, PCB assemblers can then customize your project for low-volume or prototype production.

Turn to Advanced Assembly for quick-turn printed circuit boards built with speed and precision. We work with design engineers nationwide to complete their projects—and ensure their PCBs function immaculately out of the box. Submit your PCB design files today, and we’ll do the rest to authenticate a unique manufacture-ready design. The team at Advanced Assembly has you covered.