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SHS3 Engineering · Semester 2, Week 15

Rapid Prototyping

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.3.2.LI.1 - Convert a given electronic circuit into a PCB and produce a functioning PCB board using CAD and CAM tools.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

  1. Explain the steps involved in converting a schematic diagram into a single-sided PCB layout using KiCad EDA software.
  2. Design a single-sided PCB layout from a given schematic circuit using KiCad EDA tools, including component placement and manual track routing.
  3. Operate a PCB prototyping machine using CAM software to mill and drill a single-sided PCB from the designed layout.
  4. Assemble components onto the produced PCB and test the circuit for continuity and correct functioning.
  5. Troubleshoot common PCB production faults such as short circuits, broken tracks, and improperly drilled holes, and suggest corrective actions.

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Curriculum details

Strand
Systems Design and Prototyping (Strand 3)
Sub-strand
Rapid Prototyping (3.2)
Content standard
3.3.2.CS.2 - Demonstrate an ability to convert electronic schematic diagrams into Printed Circuit Board (PCB) formats. 3.3.2.LO.1 Translate the content of a schematic diagram into a breadboard circuit implementation. 3.3.2.LO.2 Convert electronic schematic diagrams into PCB format and produce a corresponding functioning PCB board.
Indicator
3.3.2.LI.1 - Convert a given electronic circuit into a PCB and produce a functioning PCB board using CAD and CAM tools.
Suggested placement
Semester 2, Week 15 (Week 35 of the year)

Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.

Curriculum reference
NaCCA curriculum document, p. 136

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum) 

Initiating Talk for Learning: The facilitator shows learners how a PCB prototype machine works and explains the different techniques of producing PCBs. The facilitator walks the class through the basic principles of designing a PCB layout from a given schematic layout using CAD software such as KiCad EDA. This should be limited to single-sided PCB layouts.
Experiential Learning: The facilitator guides learners to create single-layer PCB layouts using a CAD tool like KiCad EDA. Learners also produce PCBs from the single layout designs using CAM with a PCB prototyping machine. Learners are also exposed to testing procedures for single-layer PCBs.
Self-Directed Learning: Explore online resources: There are many online resources available that can help Learners learn more about PCB layout design and production. Learners should be tasked to look for more schematics from these sources implement and report on outcomes.
Project-based Learning: Learners work on a project that involves the design of a single-layer PCB layout, production, assembly of components and testing of the complete product.

Assessment (3.3.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Video tutorials
- Computers with KiCad EDA installed
- PCB Prototype machine
- PCB materials
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