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TIP #089: When desoldering, use a lot of solder
Why? The solder transfers heat to all the pins at once and you can easily remove the component.
TIP #088: Add “PCB only” components into SCH
Why? You do not want to forget them, but you do not want to have them in BOM.
TIP #087: Use board version number in the project name
Why? Sometimes you may need to open two different versions of the same board and you would like to know what version you are looking at.
TIP #086: After you finish, print schematic into PDF
Why? Anyone can simply open and see the schematic. Also, opening a PDF is much quicker than opening a CAD system.
TIP #085: Consider to use stands off components
Why? You can place components under them.
TIP #084: Place hot components on the top
Why? Heat goes up. Also it may be easier to connect them to one big heatsink.
TIP: #083 Be aware of different connect styles
Why? For example wrong connect style can make soldering very hard or it can limit maximum current.
TIP #082: Always add assembly drawing layer
Why? It’s then easier to create assembly drawing layer.
TIP #081: Place components in the schematic close to ...
Why? It helps during component placement. Placement of some components is very important.
TIP #080: Add testpoints
Why? They are useful during debugging and they can be used during manufacturing and production test.
TIP #079: Name every important net
Why? During layout you immediately know what net you are routing.
TIP #078: Preferably use through hole connectors
Why? After some time, SMT may fell of the board … together with some tracks.
TIP #077: Make component outline a little bit bigger
Why? You want to be sure that you will be able to fit all components on your PCB, even if their outlines are touching.
TIP #076: Consider to place small SMD LEDs on the edge
Why? It makes the enclosure design simple.
TIP #075: Consider not using dot (“.”) in symbols
Why? Dot may not be very well visible in PDF or printed schematics. Values can be easily mixed up.