PCB Design Studio
Plan the board before the copper gets real.
This stage-one studio teaches the PCB workflow. Layout editing and file export can be added after the app shell is stable.
Safety first, always.
ElectroLab AI teaches theory, low-voltage electronics, and planning concepts. Mains voltage, switchboards, fixed wiring, high-current systems, and legal electrical work must only be performed by licensed electricians where required.
Open Safety CenterBeginner PCB workflow
Step 1
Schematic
Draw the circuit first. Name every net, add connector labels, and make power direction obvious.
Step 2
Footprints
Match the real part package, pin spacing, polarity mark, and connector orientation before layout.
Step 3
Board outline
Set size, mounting holes, keep-out zones, edge clearances, and where cables will enter.
Step 4
Placement
Put connectors, switches, heat parts, and controls first. Keep related parts close together.
Step 5
Routing
Route power and ground deliberately. Keep high-current paths short and signal paths tidy.
Step 6
Design checks
Run rule checks, inspect every polarity mark, and compare the board against the schematic.
Routing rules of thumb
Use wider tracks for higher current paths and power input/output routes.
Keep ground returns short and avoid forcing motor, relay, or speaker current through small signal grounds.
Place decoupling capacitors close to IC power pins.
Keep noisy switching nodes compact and away from sensitive audio or sensor inputs.
Avoid 90-degree corners when a simple 45-degree route is just as easy.
Add test pads for power, ground, signal input, and signal output.
Footprint checks
Pin 1 marker is visible
LED and diode polarity marked
Electrolytic capacitor polarity marked
Connector direction matches enclosure
Screw terminals fit the wire size
Mounting holes clear nearby copper
Project readiness
I breadboarded or simulated the low-voltage circuit.
I know the maximum supply voltage and expected current.
Every connector has a label and polarity note.
Heat-producing parts have space and suitable rating.
The board has test points for first power-up.
The project avoids mains and fixed wiring unless handled by licensed people.
Beginner sizing habit
Before routing, estimate current and heat. Track width calculators can come later, but the habit starts now: know which traces carry power and which traces carry signals.
What comes later
A later studio stage can add board templates, trace-width estimates, printable checklists, and KiCad-style export planning. For now, this page teaches the workflow before users send copper to manufacture.