I need to design and build an embedded piece of electronics based on a PIC microcontroller.
I am assuming the process is:
- choose chip (PIC16F690)
- prototype code on PicKit breakout board
- prototype on breadboard with associated electronics
- create electronics design in software
- send file to electronics company to make board and install electronics (or is there a step where I solder all this onto a PCB myself?)
- test and order more
Does this sound about right? What are the standard (free?) circuit design software packages for 3?
Answer
The general process that you should follow is:
- Design concept
- schematics and research into alternative solutions to your first adventurous guess
- breadboard each circuit as a 'module' and make sure its all good. Select appropriate components for the required ratings, voltages, and operation conditions. find Bill of Materials by looking at supplier websites such as element14, RS-Online, Digikey (my favourite) and Mouser as a good start.
- once the electronics 'modules' are proven to work, get onto the software prototyping and how it interacts with the electronics, to prove THAT part works
- use some free CAD package like Eagle or DesignSpark (closer to Altium in operation) to do the schematics and component
- once the PCB (probably 2-sided, unless its very complicated) has been done, and all the traces routed and the design rules specified BEFORE YOU START routing, and then do a Design Rule Check to ensure no weird net issues, contact a PCB manufacturer. I use PCBCart. Get a quote, send them the design file OR a Gerber output (they will help you make one, or look online for tutorial) and pay them lots of money.
- now go and buy all your components,
- you will receive your board, solder stuff on, and mostly likely there will be something wrong if it's your first time - but that is okay! Debugging circuits is fun, and a very good learning experience. As you progress, your boards will have less errors.
good luck!
No comments:
Post a Comment