Here’s a professional approach to DIY or low-volume layout:
1. Start with a block-level floorplan:
Divide your circuit into sections (power, MCU, analog, RF, connectors) and place them logically. Keep high-speed signals short and isolated from analog traces.
2. Place decoupling capacitors close:
Every IC power pin should have a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor placed within 1–2 mm of the pin, with a short path to the ground plane.
3. Use polygon pours for GND:
Instead of routing GND traces, pour solid copper polygons for GND connections.
Ensure the polygon is tied to a proper ground net and has enough vias to connect to internal GND planes (1 via per 1–2 cm² area is a good rule).
4. Signal layer planning:
In a 4-layer board:
- Top layer: Signals and components
- 2nd layer: Solid GND plane
- 3rd layer: Power plane
- Bottom layer: Secondary signals
This gives you clean return paths and effective power distribution.
5. Controlled impedance routing:
For USB, HDMI, Ethernet, and RF signals, match the impedance (typically 50Ω single-ended or 100Ω differential).
Use your PCB software’s impedance calculator or external tools like Saturn PCB Toolkit. Factors include trace width, dielectric height, and copper thickness.
For instance, a 50Ω microstrip over 1.6mm FR-4 (εr=4.2) might require 12 mil trace width over 10 mil height.
- Differential pair routing:
- Keep equal length (match to within ±5 mils).
- Maintain consistent spacing.
- Avoid 90° bends—use two 45° bends or arcs.
6. Avoid stubs and isolated copper:
Any unused copper or hanging trace stubs can act as antennas. Remove them to reduce EMI.
7. Thermal relief and copper balance:
For through-hole pads connected to GND or power planes, use thermal reliefs to aid soldering. Also, ensure copper is balanced across layers to avoid warping.
PCB Design Software
You can’t design a custom board without the right software. Depending on your experience and budget, here are some options:
- KiCad (Free, open-source): Ideal for beginners and hobbyists. Offers schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D visualization.
- EAGLE (Free for students and small projects): Good integration with Fusion 360 and supports complex designs.
- Altium Designer (Paid): Industry standard for advanced features like high-speed routing, simulation, and collaboration tools.
- EasyEDA (Cloud-based): Great for quick prototypes and integrates directly with fabrication services.
- OrCAD/PADS: Often used in professional environments for complex multilayer boards.
Choosing the right tool depends on your project’s needs, from simple prototypes to multilayer, production-ready boards.
Considerations During Designing a Custom Circuit Board
Designing a custom PCB isn’t just about making connections—it’s a balancing act between performance, cost, and manufacturability. Here’s what to consider:
- Board size and shape: Compact designs can save space but are harder to route.
- Number of layers: Multilayer boards improve performance but increase cost.
- Component availability: Choose parts that are easy to source and compatible with your assembler’s equipment.
- Thermal management: Use heat sinks, thermal vias, or copper pours to manage heat.
- Manufacturing capabilities: Make sure your design matches your fabricator’s limits for trace width, hole size, and stack-up.
- Testing and debugging: Leave space for test pads, headers, or diagnostic LEDs.
Thoughtful planning during the design phase saves time and avoids problems during production.
Where Can I Get a Custom Circuit Board?
You can order a custom circuit board from online PCB manufacturers or local fabrication shops. Some popular platforms include:
However, if you’re looking for a highly reliable one-stop PCB solution with both fabrication and assembly services, it’s better to work with a professional company that understands the full production lifecycle.
Hycxpcba is your trusted partner for custom circuit board design, manufacturing, and assembly. With ISO9001, IATF16949, ISO13485, and AS9100D certifications, we follow strict quality systems to ensure that your project meets industry standards. Below are some advantages that customers why choose us:
- Full customization for single-sided, multilayer, ceramic, metal-core, and HDI boards.
- Advanced engineering support from schematic to layout optimization.
- Fast prototyping with 24/7 customer service and on-time delivery.
- Traceability with MES system, covering every process step for your peace of mind.
- Competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
Whether you’re a startup building a prototype or a Fortune 1000 company scaling production, we’re here to support every step of your journey.