Learning to create pcb layouts

[markm]

BTW, I started at the input on the schem and worked my way to the output. Good idea in theory, BAD idea in practice.

That's how I do it 99% of the time these days.
Although, I've done the "from the IC out" routine before too!

[rockgardenlove]

For the jumper why not try this?


Just extend that trace and skip the jumper...

Or maybe I'm crazy.

[cheeb]

Ummm...I'm dumb.

[gaussmarkov]

naw.     it's what happens everytime we lay something out.  R.G. himself said that he lays something out and then comes back to it over and over again.  i often find improvements over several passes.  you just keep pushing the pieces around, trying this and that, and things usually get better.  if you enjoy the process, you might even try several different approaches and see how they come out.

since the thread on the tornado, i have learned that it is a good idea to layout the signal path first, and to try to keep that relatively simple--as in not twisting around back on itself.  when you just go for everything lined up in neat rows, that gets neglected.  in many circuits it does not matter, but it's probably good practice.  the schematic is usually laid out around the signal path, so it's pretty similar that way.  what i am trying to describe is keeping track of the signal path and not letting other design objectives compromise its path on the board.

i'd suggest doing pcb layouts if you enjoy the puzzle.  some people do crosswords.  me, i enjoy pcb layouts. 

have fun, gm

[RaceDriver205]

Just in case you've haven't heard of it, ExpressPCB (free) is way awesome for making PCBs (and simple to use). You enter in the schem, then lay down the parts and it lights up each of the pins that need to be connected together as you click them.

[Cardboard Tube Samurai]

I just noticed that C8 doesn't seem to be serving a function there. I'm not familiar with the schematic, so I can't offer suggestions, but from what I can see, it doesn't completely flow.