Chapter 2 - Introduction to the PCB Design Flow by Example

Abstract

This chapter illustrates a design example to explain the printed circuit board (PCB) design flow. The first section of the chapter presents an overview of the design flow. It illustrates the basic procedure for generating a schematic in Capture and converting the schematic to a board design in layout. It then explores the process of creating a circuit design with the help of Capture tools. A step-by-step procedure is explained along with illustrative figures and images. The chapter also provides details on designing the PCB with layout and delineates the important steps involved in the process. This procedure begins with starting the layout and importing the netlist. The netlist is used to route a board using layout. Thereafter, a board outline is added. After placing the parts, the autorouting of the board is accomplished before manual routing. The chapter explains the cleanup process that is followed by a design rule check. Finally, it discusses postprocessing the board design for manufacturing.