Share Ways to Avoid Common PCB Design Mistakes

 I.  Design Stage

(1) Keep the Design Simple

PCB manufacturing is a complex process. An overly - complicated design will increase the manufacturing difficulty and risk, raise costs and may lead to delays. You should cooperate with PCB assembly factories and fully consider manufacturing feasibility and cost - effectiveness during the design process, and build the circuit board in a simple and efficient manner.

(2) Generate and Check Gerber Files Correctly

Gerber files need to be in the industry - standard RS274X format (because all versions of CAD programs can generate this format). They are used for the paste layer. Before sending them, you should carefully check their completeness and accuracy to prevent manufacturing errors caused by file problems.

II.  Review and Inspection Stage

Select reliable partners for review and inspection:

PCB wafer manufacturers and assembly partners should have a sound design - review process and advanced technologies to conduct a complete PCB inspection. They can detect most errors before production, ensuring that the circuit boards work properly after delivery and avoiding delays and product failures. When choosing a PCB manufacturer, attention should be paid to its ability to fulfill inspection commitments, rather than just considering the price.

III.  File Management Stage

1. Provide BOM Files in the Correct Format 

The component Bill of Materials (BOM) must be in the CSV format (as PDF documents are difficult to be reliably converted into the CSV format). Moreover, it should cover detailed information such as reference designators, values, packaging/labels, descriptions, and part numbers to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the file.

2. Ensure the Completeness of Files

The pick-and-place machine uses XYRS coordinates for SMT parts (most CAD programs can generate this data). Make sure to provide this data. If you don't use turnkey services, each kit needs to include a packing list or invoice for comparison with the BOM. The operation number inside should be marked on the packaging box. In this way, the completeness of files can be ensured and manufacturing problems can be avoided.

IV. Partner Selection Stage

Cooperate with Reputable PCB Assembly Factories:

Don't manufacture PCBs on your own or choose the cheapest manufacturers, otherwise, delays and costly mistakes are likely to occur. Automated production lines are more efficient in placing and soldering components. When time is tight, choose a company that can produce PCBs quickly. Moreover, it is necessary to cooperate with companies that have a good reputation and rich experience in the industry to ensure product quality and production efficiency.