Conectando los componentes de nuestro esquemático

How to connect electronic components in a schematic?

Learning how to efficiently connect electronic components in a schematic not only streamlines the design process, but also allows you to avoid common mistakes. Using software such as KiCad makes this task easier, but it is essential to know certain tricks to improve the design experience. In this guide, we will show you how to connect these components in an orderly and practical way, focusing on the crucial details to ensure a functional design.

How to copy components quickly in KiCad?

To optimize design time in KiCad, you can use hot keys that make it easy to duplicate components:

1. Copy component: Place the cursor over the component and press the c key to copy it. Then, use click to place it in the desired position.
2. Change component values: To change the value of a resistor, hover over the value sign, press v and set the desired value. For example, for a 232 kΩ resistor.

With these shortcuts, altering components such as resistors and capacitors (e.g., changing to 22 microfarads for capacitors) will be easier.

Why is organization in a schematic important?

Two essential aspects to consider in the organization of a schematic are:

• Clarity and cleanliness: A tidy layout facilitates interpretation and avoids confusing crossed lines.
• Power and ground connections: All circuits must be correctly referenced to ground, and power supply voltages must be clearly defined.

To insert power or ground connections, access the "add power port" option. Here you can select voltages such as 12V, 5V, or 3.3V, and also mark ground as GND.

How to connect components and ensure correct installation?

KiCad offers tools to interconnect components accurately:

1. Move components: Use the m key to rearrange components.
2. Connect pins: Use the "add line" option. The pins shown with circles are connection points. If the connection is successful, the circles will disappear.
3. Indicate unconnected pins: To avoid problems, mark the unconnected pins with the "add unconnected symbol" tool (x).

How to configure a voltage regulator on a schematic?

Connecting voltage regulators requires attention to detail, especially in the supply and coupling of components such as capacitors:

1. Input and output: For a 3.3V regulator, connect 10 and 1 microfarad capacitors on the input and a 10 microfarad on the output to avoid voltage fluctuations.
2. Network or Net: Refer to power supply lines (e.g. 5V) as networks or nets to represent implicit interconnections without extensive line tracing.

How to design a step-up converter?

The assembly of a DC-DC converter involves several complex steps, but can be summarized as follows:

• Ground connections: identify and connect the ground pins of the component.
• Additional components: Incorporate capacitors and resistors, making sure to interconnect all parts correctly.
• Thermal management: Connect dissipation pads to ground to manage the heat generated.

How to optimize the organization with datasheets?

Component datasheets almost always provide example schematics to guide the design. Although the exact design may vary, following these models ensures efficient assembly. Always check the datasheets to confirm the recommended component layout, which is critical for more complex schematics.