Introduction to Substrate-Bonded PCBs A printed circuit board (PCB) mechanically supports and electrically connects electronic components using conductive tracks, pads and other features etched from one or more sheet layers of copper that are laminated onto and/or between sheet layers of a non-conductive substrate. Substrate-bonded PCBs take this a step further by utilizing an additive…

Introduction to Integrated Circuits (ICs) Integrated circuits, commonly known as ICs or chips, are miniaturized electronic circuits manufactured on a thin substrate of semiconductor material, typically silicon. These tiny devices have revolutionized the world of electronics since their invention in the late 1950s. As a circuit designer, understanding the fundamentals of ICs is crucial for…

Introduction to Circuit Diagrams Circuit diagrams are essential tools for anyone working with electronic circuits. They provide a visual representation of the components and connections within a circuit, making it easier to understand how the circuit functions. In this article, we will focus on resistor circuit diagrams and explore their connections and functions. What are…

What is Through-hole Assembly? Through-hole assembly, also known as through-hole technology (THT), is a method of mounting electronic components on a printed circuit board (PCB) by inserting component leads through holes drilled in the board and soldering them to pads on the opposite side. This assembly technique has been widely used since the early days…

Proper PCB Soldering Tools and Setup Having the right tools and setting up your workspace properly is essential for successful PCB soldering. At a minimum, you’ll need: Soldering iron with adjustable temperature control Soldering iron tips in various sizes Solder (lead-free is most common) Brass or conventional sponge for cleaning tips Flush wire cutters Desoldering…

What is PCB Assembly? PCB assembly is the process of attaching electronic components to a printed circuit board. The components are placed on the board according to a predetermined design and then soldered to establish electrical connections. The assembLED PCB forms the backbone of the electronic device, enabling it to perform its intended functions. Key…

Introduction to Selective Soldering Selective soldering is a process used in printed circuit board (PCB) assembly where specific components are soldered onto the board without affecting nearby components. This technique allows for precise soldering of selected components while leaving heat-sensitive or pre-assembled components intact. Selective soldering offers several advantages over traditional wave soldering and reflow…

Introduction to 60% Keyboard PCBs A 60% keyboard PCB is a compact and efficient printed circuit board designed for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who prefer a minimalist layout without compromising functionality. This article will guide you through the process of building your own 60% keyboard PCB, from understanding the components and layout to soldering and firmware…

Overview of the Hx711 Module The Hx711 module is a breakout board for the Avia Semiconductor Hx711 24-bit ADC for weigh scales. It allows you to easily read load cells and scale sensors to measure weight. The module interfaces with microcontrollers like Arduino and Raspberry Pi using just two wires. Some key features of the…

Introduction to PCB Circuit Boards A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) is a fundamental component in modern electronics. It is a flat board made of insulating materials, such as fiberglass or plastic, with conductive pathways etched or printed onto its surface. These pathways, known as traces, connect various electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated…