Some parts just look cooler than others. I really like the super tiny WLCSP (wafer level chip scale package) BGAs that some newer ARM microcontroller and power components come in. They not only fit the "smaller is cooler" mantra, but... Read more
Most of what I write about here on the Screaming Circuits blog relates to DFM (design for manufacturing) and PCB layout best practices. Being in the business of prototype and on demand manufacturing (POD), we are frequently exposed to the... Read more
Almost every PCB needs to interface with the outside world in some way or another, or interface with other PCB’s within the internal structure. This means that power and I/O connectors are very common, and unfortunately requirements are commonly overlooked.... Read more
Similar to the connector issue, it’s vital that you clearly define any “keep out” zones intended for aspects such as mounting holes or sensitive circuitry. While you are defining those zones, remember that solder mask isn’t considered a reliable insulator,... Read more
PCB Design Tip of the Day: Ensure Connector Locations & Orientations are Correct Connectors, especially thru-hole connectors, present opportunities for error in both layout and in assembly. First, it's not always obvious to the PCB layout specialist which side of... Read more
There’s nothing like a good synonym roll, just like Grammar used to make. AKA Semantics do matter in schematics, especially when dealing with multi-page schematic diagrams, reusing schematic sections or working on a team project. Tip of the day: Use... Read more
It's often the little things, the seemingly obvious small traps that leap out and bite two weeks later. Mark, PCB design expert from our San Diego PCB Phoenix office has another piece of advice for you when getting your schematic... Read more
Where do the PCB Design errors grow? A lot has to happen before a PC board gets into an end user's hands - many different processes and people are involved in getting a device designed and built. The more people... Read more
Earlier this year we built the electronic badges for the Open Source Hardware Summit. The badge was very nice as is, but I extended it with a LiPoly battery pack of my own design. The badges were assembled in our... Read more
If you've been following this series, you've likely come to the determination that I've fallen behind, or forgotten about the project. I haven't forgotten, but I have fallen behind. When I last wrote about the project (here), I had examined... Read more
