PCB Design and PCB Layout Services

As we can see in our daily lives, the functions of mobile phones are becoming more and more numerous and advanced. Among them, the most important factor driving this change is the advancement in PCB design and layout. So, how to design a circuit board? Today, let's explore this issue. Designing a circuit board (PCB) is not as simple as just placing components on a board. It involves many aspects and is a systematic project that integrates the realization of electronic functions, signal integrity control, thermal management optimization and manufacturability guarantee.

Whether you are developing a simple prototype or a complex multi-layer circuit board, understanding PCB design and PCB layout services is of vital importance. Although the two are closely related, they have essential differences in terms of goals, methods, tools and processes. In this article, we will systematically sort out the definitions of PCB design and layout, the main differences between them, and provide practical suggestions for PCB design and layout. First of all, let's get to know PCB design.

Understanding PCB Design

PCB design, also known as PCB engineering, is the most crucial and strategic stage in the circuit development process. It transforms functional requirements into schematic diagrams and defines the connection relationships and interaction logic among various components. Perhaps you might think: "Isn't PCB Design just about arranging components in rows, connecting them, and then generating Gerber files to hand over to the manufacturer to make the board?" But have you ever seriously thought about:

What specific contents does PCB design include?

The circuit drawing is done. Does that mean the design is completed?

Why do some PCBs run stably while others suffer from severe electromagnetic interference?

Some boards heat up severely, while others have uniform temperatures and stable performance.

In fact, true PCB design is far more than just "drawing diagrams". It involves multiple aspects of the entire circuit, such as signal integrity, power distribution, heat dissipation performance, EMC compatibility, and manufacturability. An outstanding PCB designer should be proficient not only in circuits but also in structures, processes, and even cost control. The key elements of PCB design include:

Schematic Capture & Circuit Planning

Component Selection & Placement Strategy

Electrical rule Check (ERC) and network conformance verification

Functionality & Signal Integrity

EMC & Thermal Management

Design for Manufacturability

Cost Optimization & BOM Planning

PCB Prototyping & Testing

These are the key elements of PCB design. In addition to these, an excellent PCB design also encompasses many advanced yet practical design details and strategies. A good PCB design will become the core competitiveness of your good products.

Understanding PCB Layout

After the schematic diagram is completed, the next step is the PCB Layout. PCB layout is the transformation of electrical connections into actual wire routing and physical structure on the circuit board. The PCB layout stage is highly dependent on EDA design tools and the experience of engineers. If you want to customize and design a PCB, it is very important to choose an experienced engineer. The key elements of PCB layout include:

Physical layout of components

Copper wire routing design

Definition of vias and laminated structures

Design Rule Check (DRC)

Thermal management optimization

Signal integrity guarantee

Reserved interfaces for testing and debugging

Version traceability and assembly compatibility design

Common EDA tool support: such as Altium Designer, Eagle, KiCad, OrCAD, etc.

So, what is the difference between PCB design and PCB layout?

Differences Between PCB Design and PCB Layout

Although PCB design and PCB layout are often used interchangeably, they actually have obvious differences in aspects such as processes, working contents, and focus of attention.

For a simple example, compare PCB development to "building a house". Then PCB design is like drawing a blueprint for a building, determining how many rooms there are, how the pipes will flow, and how the water and electricity will be connected. The PCB layout is the actual construction stage, which involves how to lay the water pipes, where to locate the sockets, how to build the walls, and ultimately whether it is habitable, safe and electrified.

Why is it necessary to distinguish between PCB design and layout?

In professional projects, it is convenient to distinguish between PCB design and PCB layout for division of labor and collaboration. The design and layout are handled by different engineers, which can enhance efficiency. Confusing design with Layout is prone to errors. For instance, if the logic in the schematic diagram is wrong, no matter how you draw the layout, it will be incorrect.

In conclusion, PCB design and PCB layout are both independent and closely collaborative, jointly determining the performance and manufacturability of the final PCB. 

PCB Design and Layout Process

Step 1: Draw the circuit diagram first (schematic design)

Before starting any PCB design service, we need to first use professional software (such as Altium or KiCad) to turn the circuit idea into a specific "circuit diagram." This step is called schematic design.

For this step, we need:

✔ Add all the necessary electronic components (such as resistors, capacitors, chips) in

✔ Connect them according to their functions with "wires"

✔ Conduct an electrical rule check

Step 2: Encapsulation matching

The "shape" corresponding to each electronic component is what we call the package (footprint).

This step requires ensuring that the components in the circuit diagram correspond one-to-one with the "pads" on the actual PCB board to prepare for the subsequent automatic surface mount.

Step 3: Set the number of layers and structure of the board

Next, you need to determine how many layers your circuit board has (2 layers, 4 layers, 6 layers, etc.) and what each layer is for.

✔ Some are signaling

✔ Some are powered on

✔ Some are used for the ground layer (grounding)

This step usually affects the cost of PCB layout services. Generally speaking, the more floors there are, the higher the price.

Step 4: Place the components in the appropriate positions

At this point, we enter the PCB Layout stage. We need to place the components we just selected in. Usually,

✔ Logically related items are placed together (such as the same functional module).

✔ The heat-generating chips should be placed on the edge and close to the heat dissipation holes

✔ Interface devices should be placed close to the edge for easy wiring

Step 5: Draw Routing (wiring)

After setting up the components, we need to "wire them". Usually,

✔ Each wire represents a circuit connection

✔ The signal lines should be short and straight to avoid interference as much as possible

✔ The power cord should be thick and the ground wire complete

Step 6: Inspection (DRC & DFM) 

Check whether the wiring is qualified.

✔ Are there any lines that are drawn too thin and prone to breaking?

✔ Are there any two solder pads that are too close together and cause a short circuit?

✔ Can it be produced by the PCB manufacturer you have chosen?

This process is called Design Rule Check (DRC) and Manufacturability Check (DFM).

Step 7: Output files (Gerber and BOM)

The last step is to export the production file of the board. Including:

✔ Gerber file: Drawings of each layer of the board

✔ Drilling file: Inform the manufacturer how many holes to drill and their sizes

✔ BOM table: List of components to be used

✔ Pick and Place file (Coordinate file): Used during SMT for precise component placement.

After organizing these files, they can be submitted to the PCB manufacturing service or PCB prototyping service manufacturers. Below, we have listed several outstanding PCB design and layout manufacturers for your reference.

Top PCB Design and Layout Services Provider

Choosing the right PCB design and layout service company is the key to successfully developing a product. Here are some well-known PCB design and layout service providers in the industry for you:

PCBasic's Design and Layout Service

At PCBasic, we are constantly expanding our capabilities in PCB design and layout services, aiming to provide customers with a more comprehensive one-stop solution for circuit boards. Although our PCB design service is still under continuous construction, we have already gained a leading edge in the field of PCB manufacturing and assembly services and are one of the trusted service providers in the Chinese industry.

Our goal is to break down the barriers between design and production, and provide full support for every stage of our clients' projects from concept to delivery. Our services include:

Customized PCB design services, covering schematic drawing and PCB layout

DFM/DFA optimization to ensure a smooth transition of the design to mass production

Seamlessly integrate with our own PCB manufacturing and assembly services to enhance efficiency

Professional layout support is provided using professional tools such as Altium Designer and KiCad

Whether you are developing a prototype or preparing to enter the mass production stage, PCBasic is your reliable partner. Choose PCBasic to make your design truly come to fruition from conception to delivery.

Conclusion

Whether you are starting from scratch to draw the schematic diagram or need professional routing optimization, it is crucial to find a suitable PCB design and layout service provider. From signal integrity to layered design, from manufacturing feasibility to cost control, professional guidance can save you time, cost and risks in the later stage.

About PCBasic

Time is money in your projects – and PCBasic gets it. PCBasic is a PCB assembly company that delivers fast, flawless results every time. Our comprehensive PCB assembly services include expert engineering support at every step, ensuring top quality in every board. As a leading PCB assembly manufacturer, we provide a one-stop solution that streamlines your supply chain. Partner with our advanced PCB prototype factory for quick turnarounds and superior results you can trust.