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1. Create a New Project

Open Trace and click “New Project” from the dashboard. Give your project a name and select a location to save it.

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2. Describe Your Circuit

In the chat panel, describe what you want to build. For example: 
I need a simple LED blinker circuit using a 555 timer.
It should run on 9V and blink at about 1Hz.
Trace will analyze your request and suggest components, values, and a circuit topology.

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More Advanced Example

For more complex designs, be specific about components and requirements: 
Design a USB-C powered PWM LED dimmer using an NE555 timer
and a MOSFET to drive a 12V LED strip. Include:
- USB-C connector with proper CC resistors for 5V
- 555 timer in astable mode for PWM generation
- Potentiometer for frequency/duty cycle adjustment
- N-channel MOSFET (e.g., IRLZ44N) for the LED load
- Flyback diode for inductive protection
Trace understands circuit topologies and will configure the 555 timer correctly, select appropriate component values, and handle the USB-C power delivery requirements.

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3. Review and Approve (Plan Mode)

For complex designs, use Plan mode — Trace will present a component list and step-by-step circuit plan before making changes. Review the suggestions and approve them to proceed, or ask for modifications. For simpler tasks, Agent mode makes changes directly.

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4. Generate Schematic

Once approved (in Plan mode) or immediately (in Agent mode), Trace generates the schematic. You can view it in the schematic editor, make manual adjustments, or ask Trace to modify specific parts.

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5. Create PCB Layout

Switch to the PCB editor to lay out your board. Place components where you want them, then use the autorouter to route all traces automatically. You can also route manually if you prefer.

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6. Export for Manufacturing

When your design is complete, export Gerber files and a BOM for manufacturing. See the Exporting guide for details.

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Next Steps