Electronic Circuit Design

Published at: September 19th 2024

Electronic circuit design involves creating schematics and layouts for various electronic components to achieve specific functionality.

It’s crucial to understand the fundamental principles of circuit design, including voltage, current, resistance and power.

Open-source tools provide cost-effective alternatives for engineers, allowing them to design circuits without breaking the bank.

Open-source tools for circuit design

1. KiCad EDA

KiCad is a comprehensive suite for schematic capture and PCB layout. It runs on Windows, Linux and macOS, making it accessible to a wide range of users.  

Download KiCad EDA here

Picture 1. KiCad EDA interface (source: midibox.org)

Instructional video on how to use KiCad EDA

2. CircuitMaker

A free-to-use tool that fosters collaboration within the open-source Hardware community. It supports both schematic design and PCB layout.  

Free PCB Design Software | CircuitMaker

Picture 2. CircuitMaker interface (source: embarcados.com.br)

Getting Started with CircuitMaker 2.2: An In-depth Introduction for Beginners (youtube.com)

3. Autodesk Eagle

Perhaps the most advanced free PCB design software for Mac and Windows. This Autodesk software is widely used by professionals across various industries but is available for hobbyists. 

Autodesk Eagle

Picture 3. Autodesk eagle interface (source: Electronics-Lab.com)

How To Develop Your First PCB in Autodesk Eagle (youtube.com)

Design Workflow

• Start by creating a schematic diagram using KiCad or CircuitMaker. Add components (resistors, capacitors, etc.) and connect them logically.
• Next, move to PCB layout. Arrange components on the board, route traces, and ensure proper spacing.
• Use KiCad’s Gerber output to generate manufacturing files for fabrication.

Simulation and Testing

• Simulating circuits before fabrication is essential to catch errors and optimize performance.
• KiCad provides built-in simulation features, allowing you to verify your design virtually.

Test your circuit using tools like:

• SimulIDE (real-time simulator for hobbyists and students) Download SimulIDE (sourceforge.net)
• QSapecNG Download QSapecNG (sourceforge.net)

Tips

• Label components clearly in your schematics.
• Follow design rules (e.g., trace width, clearance) to ensure manufacturability.
• Use KiCad’s Design Rule Check (DRC) to catch potential issues.
• Consider factors like noise, power dissipation, and thermal management.

Sources:

Microsoft Word - fundamentals-EE-part1-feb-10-06.doc (cam.ac.uk)

9 Free Electronics Circuit Design Softwares | Alternatives (electronicsforu.com)

25 Online PCB Design Tools and Software for EE Students (electricaltechnology.org)