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Grade 9 STEC
Topic: PCB Design and Fabrication
Sub-Topic: Electronics Theory on PCB Designing

Printed Circuit Boards for Robots

Among the most important aspects of robotics is the printed circuit board (PCB) used for
electronic control and operation. With multiple industries that use robotics, finding PCB
solutions that meet the various needs of the automated devices has become even more
valuable.

Verifying PCB Layout to Schematic

When designing a printed circuit board (PCB), it is crucial to verify that the PCB layout
matches the schematic diagram. Here are some steps students can follow:

 Carefully compare component placements between the schematic and PCB layout. All
components should be present and matched.
 Check that all connections between components on the schematic are routed correctly
on the PCB.
 Verify that pad assignments and pin numbers match between schematic symbols and
PCB footprints.
 Check polarities of diodes, electrolytic capacitors, ICs are correct.
 Confirm any buses or net labels are properly connected in both schematic and PCB.
 Look for any missing connections or accidental connections on the PCB.
 Use a design rule check (DRC) utility to automatically flag any violations.
 Perform an electrical connectivity check to confirm there are no open circuits.

Properly Designed PCB Characteristics
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Here are some key characteristics of a well-designed PCB layout:

 Short, direct traces following circuit schematic connections

 Good component placement and orientation
 Clear separation between analog and digital sections
 Power and ground planes for low impedance
 Critical signals routed over ground plane
 -Matched trace lengths and impedances for differential pairs
 Minimal vias and crosses for clean routing
 Adequate clearance between traces and pads
 Complete enclosure in solder mask
 Clear board outlines, cutouts, and mechanical features
 Board shape and dimensions optimized for manufacturing
 Through-hole pads plated for solderability and durability

PCB Layout Considerations for Robotics

For robotics, the PCB design should account for:

1. Vibration - Use secure component mounting and connections

2. Noise - Include filtering and shielding for sensor signals
3. Durability - Avoid thin traces and pads, increase copper weights
4. Power handling - Wide power trace widths and polygons
5. Connectors - Include connectors suited for motors, sensors etc.
6. Test points - Add test points for debugging
7. Mounting - Integrate mounting holes/keep outs for standoffs

Activity 1.
1. What should be checked to verify that a PCB layout matches the schematic diagram?
a) Component placement
b) Trace routing
c) All of the above
d) None of the above
2. What is important for routing critical signals on a PCB?
a) Minimize via usage b) Route over ground plane
c) Use right angle turns d) None of the above
3. Which of these is NOT a characteristic of good PCB design?
a) Short, direct traces b) Minimal component spacing
c) Matched impedance for traces d) Adequate clearance between traces
4. What is a technique used to identify errors in PCB layout vs schematic?
a) Electrical connectivity check b) Power consumption evaluation
c) Design rule check d) Thermal simulation
5. What is important for a robotics PCB layout?
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a) Shielding for EMI protection b) Secure component mounting

c) Wide power trace widths d) All of the above
6. What is added to a PCB layout for debugging purposes?
a) Test points b) Thermocouples c) Current sensors d) Voltage dividers
7. Which PCB feature facilitates assembly with mechanical parts?
a) Silkscreen logo b) Solder mask c) Mounting holes d) Circuit traces
8. What is checked to identify missing connections in a PCB layout?
a) Design rule check b) Electrical connectivity
c) Thermal simulation d) Vibration analysis
9. What is important for routing differential signals on a PCB?
a) Minimize via usage b) Matched trace lengths
c) Perpendicular trace angles d) High impedance traces
10. What should be optimized in PCB design for heat dissipation?
a) Trace width b) Component placement
c) Number of layers d) Copper thickness