Traces can move between layers using vias. This involves placing components and lying down electrical paths (pathways for current flow) on a substrate logically to ensure that the circuit functions correctly. The schematic is then converted into a three-dimensional graphical rendering used to manufacture the PCB. The first step is to create a two-dimensional schematic showing how each component is connected and the circuitry involved. Understanding everything going into the design is essential so the designer can plan accordingly. Circuit designers need to understand the purpose and functionality of the board. PCB Design is a Multi-Stage Processĭesigning a printed circuit board (PCB) can be challenging as technologies become increasingly complex. Altium recently announced Altium Education, a new series of online learning modules targeted at students and newcomers to the field.Īltium's Altium Educational offers a free library of university courses, software, and licenses that students can use to enable students to access online professional engineering education. These tools can be overwhelming for novice PCB designers. PCB design can be accomplished using several computer-based tools, such as Cadence Allegro, Siemens PADs, and Altium Designer. Altium Education helps college students learn the basics of PCB design services and then help them to design their first printed circuit boards.

Altium academic license