Posts by George
BGA Failure Prevention Guide for PCB Design and Assembly
A practical guide to PCB trace length matching in high-speed design, covering when it’s required, tolerances, differential pairs, vias, reference planes, and EMI considerations.
Field Guide to Identifying Unknown SMD Components on PCB
A practical guide to identifying unknown SMD components on PCBs. Learn how to decode markings, analyze package types, troubleshoot burnt parts, spot counterfeit components, and apply field-tested techniques for accurate identification.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a PCB at Home
Learn how to make circuit boards at home with our DIY PCB tutorial. Discover 3 proven methods for prototyping, repairs, and hobby projects—perfect for beginners and electronics enthusiasts.
Proven PCB Design Tutorial for Manufacturing Projects
Learn how to design PCBs for real-world manufacturing projects with our proven step-by-step tutorial. Optimize your designs for assembly, reliability, and high first-article yield.
What’s the Difference Between PCB Design and PCB Layout?
Learn the key differences between PCB design and PCB layout, how they work together, and best practices to prevent costly mistakes in PCB projects.
A Practical Guide to Prevent PCB BOM Errors Before Assembly
Learn how to prevent PCB BOM errors before assembly. This practical guide explains EMS-ready BOM formats, alternates, DNP handling, and real-world SMT pitfalls.
PCB Copper Thickness Guide
Learn everything about PCB Copper Thickness, common pitfalls, and practical design tips. Understand finished vs. nominal copper weight, avoid overheating, and optimize reliability for your boards.
Practical PCB Gerber Audit to Prevent Production Errors
Learn how to audit PCB Gerber files like a CAM engineer to prevent fabrication errors, reduce respins, and ensure flawless board production. Step-by-step tips, common mistakes, and professional best practices included.
How to Install ESP32 in Arduino IDE
Learn how to install ESP32 in Arduino IDE the field-ready way. Fix upload failures, control core versions, avoid USB and partition pitfalls, and deploy ESP32 reliably beyond the lab.
How to Repair a PCB Trace
Learn how to repair a PCB trace like a pro with tips from a field engineer. Discover reliable fixes, avoid common mistakes, and extend your electronics’ lifespan.
Avoid PCB Trace Failures with Proven Engineer Guidelines
Discover field-proven PCB trace design strategies. Optimize widths, impedance, thermal performance, and EMI while ensuring manufacturability and long-term reliability.
ESP32 GPIO Pinout: Which Pins Are Safe, Risky, or Forbidden
Learn which ESP32 GPIO pins are safe, risky, or should be avoided. A field-tested pinout guide covering boot strapping, ADC noise, flash conflicts, and PCB design tips.
5 Most Common PCB Defects and How to Prevent Them
Discover the 5 most common PCB defects—from tombstoning to moisture-induced popcorning—and learn expert prevention strategies to ensure reliable, high-quality boards.
