Now that you've designed and tested your circuit in Wokwi, it's time to turn it into a real physical object: a Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

We'll be using EasyEDA, a powerful web-based tool that handles everything from schematics to the final board layout.

1. Getting Started

First, make an account here.

Once you've logged in, you'll need to import the project file provided by your leader (the .epro2 file).

1. Go to File → Open → EasyEDA Source.
2. Upload the .epro2 file provided to you.

2. Understanding the Schematic

Before we jump into the board layout, we need to have a look at the schematic. The file you have been provided with shouldn't look like this, as this is a completed example.

Each part of the schematic corresponds to a component in your circuit. On the left of the screen you'll see all of the components available for you to use, read about their functionality, and place them on the schematic, for each one that you used in you WokWi design.

3. Converting to PCB

Once your schematic is ready, we can convert it into a physical layout.

1. Go to the top menu and select Design → Convert to PCB.

EasyEDA will now generate a PCB workspace. You'll see your components clustered together with thin blue lines called "Ratsnest" wires. These wires show you which pins need to be connected.

4. Placing Your Components

The goal of the layout is to place your components in a way that is compact, logical, and easy to route.

• Start with the "Anchor": Place your most important component (like the microcontroller or a large connector) first.
• Group Related Parts: Keep capacitors near the pins they support.
• Avoid Overlap: Make sure components aren't on top of each other.

5. Routing the Traces

This is the "Traces" part of the project! Routing is the process of replacing the blue "ratsnest" lines with actual copper tracks.

1. Select the Track tool from the routing palette.
2. Click a pin and follow the line to its destination.
3. Avoid 90° Angles: Instead of sharp right angles, use two 45° angles. This is better for signal integrity and looks more professional.
4. Trace Width: Use thicker traces for power and ground lines, and thinner traces for data signals.

6. The Final Check (DRC)

Before you ship your project, you must run a Design Rule Check (DRC). This is like a spell-check for your hardware.

1. Go to Design → DRC.
2. If you see red markers, it means two traces are too close together or you have a short circuit.

3. Fix every single error until the DRC is clean.

7. Shipping Your Project

Once your DRC is clean and your traces look great:

1. Export your Gerber Files (the industry standard for PCB manufacturing).

2. Send your files to your leader so that they can order the circuit board for you!

Original slides: Traces: Guide Slides!