PCB Layout

The PCB editor is where you arrange components and route traces on your physical board.

Editor Overview

The PCB editor displays your board outline, component footprints, and copper traces. Key features include:

• Layer Stack - Switch between copper, silkscreen, and other layers
• Ratsnest - Shows unrouted connections as straight lines
• 3D Viewer - Preview your board in 3D
• Design Rules - Constraints for trace width, clearance, etc.

Component Placement

After importing your schematic, footprints appear outside the board outline. Place them within the board area, considering:

• Signal flow and grouping related components
• Thermal considerations for power components
• Mechanical constraints (connectors, mounting holes)
• Manufacturing requirements

Routing

Route traces manually using the routing tool (keyboard shortcut: X) or ask the AI for assistance. The router respects design rules and can use multiple layers.

Design Rule Check

Run a Design Rule Check (DRC) before exporting to catch errors like clearance violations, unconnected nets, or invalid geometry.

Copper Pours

Add copper pours (fills) for ground planes or power distribution. Pours automatically avoid other traces and pads based on clearance rules.