PCB Layout

Layout is the process of organizing and placing the components in the design. It starts with passing the schematic data into layout via a file called a Netlist. When this Netlist is read, Altium pulls in the necessary component footprints from the Library files. Components are placed, copper traces routed, and planes/polygons added. Finally, the Design Rule Check and Design Review. The ultimate goal of the layout process is to create files that will be used to produce the physical board.

During the project consultation we can discuss some of the following considerations:

• Mechanical:
  • How does your mechanical design affect the shape of the board? Are there mounting holes? Does the design have heat considerations? Are there restrictions on where the components are placed? Will components be placed on both sides of the board?
• Electrical:
  • How many layers does the circuit board need? Are special materials required to achieve a particular dielectric constant or loss? Are there high speed, differential, or RF nets that need special consideration?
• Manufacturing:
  • How can you get all of the desired features while minimizing production cost? The fabrication and assembly outputs that come from layout are what your fabricator or contract manufacturer will need to build your project. These include Gerbers, Drill Files, ODB++, the Fabrication and Assembly Drawings, BOM, Pick and Place, 3D CAD, and Step files.
    
    

Once you have your project sent over to your fabricator it’s not uncommon for questions to come up about design intent. We are happy to help resolve any questions that arise.