How to Start PCB Design (Zero to Hero)

Designing your first Printed Circuit Board (PCB) can feel overwhelming. Schematic symbols, footprints, routing, Gerber files—where do you even start?

In this guide (and the video above), I break down the entire process into 3 simple stages. You don't need a degree in electronics to build your first board; you just need the right workflow.

Step 1: The Schematic ( The Blueprint)

Before you draw any physical wires, you need a logic map. The schematic defines what connects to what.

Pro Tip: Always choose your components before you start drawing. You need to know if you are using an SMD resistor (0603 package) or a Through-Hole one, because they require completely different footprints later.

Step 2: PCB Layout (The Physical World)

This is where the art happens. You transfer your schematic logic onto a physical board shape.

As mentioned in the video, keep your power lines thick (for current) and your signal lines short. If you are using a microcontroller like an Arduino or STM32, place your decoupling capacitors as close to the power pins as possible.

Step 3: Manufacturing (Gerber Files)

Once your design is done, you can't just send the project file to a factory. You need to generate Gerber Files. These are like PDF layers for machines—one file for copper, one for solder mask, one for silk screen (text).

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