This repository provides a detailed step-by-step guide using the Public Invention MoonRatII project and KiCad as an example on how to order printed circuit boards (PCBs) from JLCPCB, including file preparation, customization options, and checkout process.
Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe. A clear and concise description of what the problem is. Ex. I'm always frustrated when [...]
The PWA manufacturing process is two steps and other activities.
- PCBWay and JLCPCB will fabricate a sub assembly.
- Make and check Gerber and Drill files. JLCPCB
- Make BOM / Parts List. JLCPCB
- Make Placement Files. JLCPCB
- Make and check Gerber and Drill files. PCBWay
- Make BOM / Parts List. PCBWay
- Make Placement Files. PCBWay
- Place the following order JLCPCB
- Order Balance of Parts
- To the sub assembly additional parts must be ordered. USA.
- Create and Update Documentation
- Review the GPAD assembly notes (markdown documents) and duplicate and update as appropriate.
- Step 1: Prepare Your PCB Design Files
- Step 2: Visit JLCPCB Website
- Step 3: Upload Gerber Files
- Step 4: Customize PCB Specifications
- Step 5: Choose Quantity and Lead Time
- Step 6: PCB Assembly (Optional)
- Step 7: Confirm Order and Checkout
- Step 8: Enter Shipping Details
- Step 9: Payment Options
- Step 10: Track Your Order
- Tips for a Successful Order
Step 1: Prepare Your PCB Design Files in KiCad
To order from JLCPCB, you need Gerber files containing the PCB design information.
- Complete Your PCB Design: Ensure your design is fully completed in KiCad, including all schematics and PCB layout.
- Run DRC (Design Rule Check): Before exporting, run a DRC to catch any errors that might affect the PCB manufacturing. file:///Users/melanielaporte/Desktop/Screenshot%202024-09-21%20at%209.44.41%E2%80%AFPM.png
- Assign Footprints: Confirm all components have appropriate footprints assigned. file:///Users/melanielaporte/Desktop/Screenshot%202024-09-21%20at%209.52.03%E2%80%AFPM.png file:///Users/melanielaporte/Desktop/Screenshot%202024-09-21%20at%208.23.27%E2%80%AFPM.png To create an order from JLCPCB, you will need 4 sets of files - Gerber, Drill, BOM, and Drill map.
- In KiCad, Open PCB Layout Editor.
- Go to
File > Plotin the PCB layout tool.- Choose Gerber as the plot format.
- Select the necessary layers:
- F.Cu (Front Copper)
- B.Cu (Back Copper)
- F.Mask (Front Solder Mask)
- B.Mask (Back Solder Mask)
- F.SilkS (Front Silkscreen)
- B.SilkS (Back Silkscreen)
- Edge.Cuts (Board outline)
- Select appropriate options for drill files, including through-hole and vias.
- Click
Plotto generate Gerber files. - Export the files
WILL ADD photo of Gerber File Generation in KiCad
- After plotting, click on the Generate Drill Files button.
- Choose Excellon format, and make sure to include PTH (Plated Through-Hole) and NPTH (Non-Plated Through-Hole).
- After generating all the Gerber files and drill files, zip them into a single compressed folder. Make sure all necessary layers are included in the zip file.
- ADD file creation directions
- Navigate to JLCPCB’s website.
- If you don’t have an account, create one. If you do, simply log in.
- On the JLCPCB homepage, click the “Order Now” button under the PCB manufacturing section.
- Upload the ZIP File containing your Gerber files.
- JLCPCB will automatically analyze the files and present you with a preview of your board.
- Review the auto-generated preview to ensure it matches your design.
- Customize the PCB:
- Dimensions: This should be automatically detected from the Gerber files.
- Layers: Typically 2-layer or 4-layer, depending on your design.
- Quantity: Choose the number of PCBs you need.
- Thickness: Common options are 1.6mm, but you can choose different thicknesses depending on your needs.
- Solder Mask Color: Green is standard, but other colors are available.
- Silkscreen Color: White is typical.
- Surface Finish: Choose between HASL (Lead/Lead-Free) or ENIG (Gold).
WILL ADD Screenshot of PCB Customization Page
- Raw PCBs are cheaper than fully assembled ones and useful for early-stage testing of layout, connectivity, and fit.
- Engineers can manually add or modify components to test new configurations or make quick changes without waiting for a new assembly.
- They serve as backups if assembled boards have defects or misplaced components.
- Ideal for students or hobbyists, offering hands-on experience in soldering and component placement.
- If components are unavailable from the manufacturer, you can source and solder them yourself.
WILL ADD photo of raw board and Lee's double decker setup
- Select Quantity (5, 10, etc.).
- Choose Lead Time (Standard 2-day production or expedited).
Optional, if assembly is needed:
- Select SMT Assembly.
- Upload BOM and Pick-and-Place files.
WILL ADD photo of SMT assembly process
- Review Order Summary: Ensure all specifications are correct.
- Triple check all files and order choices.
- Add to Cart and proceed to Checkout.
- Enter your shipping address.
- Select the shipping method (DHL, FedEx, etc.).
- PayPal
- Credit/Debit Cards
- Wire Transfer You will receive an emailed order confirmation.
- Track your order status in the JLCPCB dashboard.
- You will receive tracking info once shipped.
- Verify Gerber files using JLCPCB’s Gerber viewer.
- Ensure BOM and PNP files are accurate for assembly.
- Choose the right shipping method based on urgency.
- JLCPCB will inevitably contact you about issues or changes. Triple check your responses and reply as soon as possible to avoid delivery delays.
Feel free to contribute improvements to this guide by submitting pull requests or opening issues.
This guide is licensed under the MIT License.
How to contact me: https://github.com/melanielaporte/