There is something deeply satisfying about holding a custom PCB you designed yourself. Here is how I got started.
Tools of the Trade#
- KiCad — free, open-source, and incredibly powerful
- JLCPCB / PCBWay — affordable manufacturing (5 boards for a few pounds)
- A decent soldering station with temperature control
- Hot air rework station for SMD components
My Process#
- Prototype on breadboard
- Schematic capture in KiCad
- PCB layout with careful attention to trace widths and clearances
- Design rule check (DRC)
- Generate Gerber files and order
- Assemble and test
Lessons Learned#
- Always double-check your footprints against actual component datasheets
- Add test points — you will thank yourself during debugging
- Start with through-hole, then graduate to SMD
- Keep analogue and digital grounds separate
Future posts will cover specific designs in detail.