Schematic capture

Created: 08/04/2020Last updated:08/04/2020

Introductions: Schematic capture is the process of using eCAD tool for drawing design with electronics symbols and wires.

Common eCAD tools:

  • Altium Designer (Professional)
  • Cadence Allegro Design Entry HDL (Professional)
  • Kitcad (Free)
  • Eagle (Free)

Design Overview

    1. Setup a project using the eCAD tool
    2. Setup common libraries
      • Create symbols and footprints as needed during the design
    3. Translate system architecture into schematic
    4. Export net list for Layout

Typical Design Gates

    1. Schematic lock is after schematic review
    2. Placement lock is after placement review
    3. Design for manufacturability (DFM) is after routing lock
    4. Finalizing fabrication file is after DFM reviews with the PCB manufacturer