Scribd
Upload
24 views4 pages

18 - Basic Terms of PCB Design

The document outlines the fundamental terms and concepts related to PCB design, including pads, tracks, footprints, vias, DRC, ERC, silk screens, copper layers, and solder masks. Each term is defined with its function and importance in the context of PCB design. Additionally, it includes questions to reinforce understanding of these concepts.

Uploaded by

padhiyarjaydeep092
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
24 views4 pages

18 - Basic Terms of PCB Design

The document outlines the fundamental terms and concepts related to PCB design, including pads, tracks, footprints, vias, DRC, ERC, silk screens, copper layers, and solder masks. Each term is defined with its function and importance in the context of PCB design. Additionally, it includes questions to reinforce understanding of these concepts.

Uploaded by

padhiyarjaydeep092
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 4

EXPERIMENT NO - 18 DATE:

AIM: Demonstrate the basic terms of PCB design (Pad, Track, Footprint, Via, DRC, ERC, Silk
Screen, Cu Layers, Mask).

THEORY:

Pad:

A pad is a conductive area of a PCB to which components lead or wire is soldered. In PCB
design software, pads are associated with different component types (e.g., through-hole, surface-
mount). Pads come in different sizes depending on the component being used.

PCB Designing & Electronics Workshop Page No.:


Track (Trace):

A track is a copper line that connects different pads or components together. Tracks carry
electrical signals and current between components. Tracks vary in width depending on the
current they need to carry.
Footprint:

A footprint is the layout or pattern on the PCB that corresponds to a specific component (like a
resistor, capacitor, or IC). Footprints are predefined and correspond to the pad sizes, spacing, and
shape necessary for a particular component to fit on the PCB.

Via:

A via is a hole that allows electrical connections between different layers of the PCB. Vias are
used when the circuit requires a connection between the top and bottom or between different
inner layers.

PCB Designing & Electronics Workshop Page No.:


DRC (Design Rule Check):

DRC ensures that the PCB design adheres to the manufacturing constraints. DRC checks whether
the track widths, clearances, and other parameters are within acceptable limits.

ERC (Electrical Rule Check):

ERC checks the electrical validity of the circuit. It verifies that all components are correctly
connected and that there are no short circuits, floating pins, or unconnected nets.

Silk Screen:

The silk screen layer is used to print the labels and other textual information on the PCB, such as
component identifiers (R1, C2, etc.). This layer is typically not conductive and is used for
assembly purposes.

PCB Designing & Electronics Workshop Page No.:


Cu Layers (Copper Layers):

These are the layers of copper that form the actual electrical connections on the PCB. A PCB can
have one or multiple copper layers, depending on the complexity of the design.
Mask (Solder Mask):

The solder mask is a layer of protective coating applied over the copper tracks to prevent
accidental short circuits during soldering. The solder mask also helps protect against oxidation
and ensures that only the pads and vias are exposed for soldering.

QUESTIONS:

(1) What is the function of a "Pad" in PCB design, and why is it important?
(2) Explain the difference between a "Track" and a "Via" in PCB design.
(3) What is meant by the term "Footprint" in PCB design, and how does it affect component
placement?
(4) What does "DRC" (Design Rule Check) refer to, and why is it necessary in PCB design?
(5) Define "ERC" (Electrical Rule Check) and describe its role in ensuring a functional PCB
design.
(6) What is the purpose of the "Silk Screen" layer in PCB design, and what information does it
typically contain?
(7) Write your conclusion.

PCB Designing & Electronics Workshop Page No.:

You might also like