Course Outline
Day 1 – Project Initialization, Interface Configuration, and Schematic Library Management
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Navigating the Altium Designer interface, including panels, editors, and project directory structures
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Utilizing Autosave, Local History, and version control features
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Establishing consistent file structures for project preparation
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Initializing and configuring a new PCB project
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Distinguishing between local, version-controlled, and Workspace-hosted project repositories
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Configuring classic PCB Rules and Constraints parameters
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Setting project-level parameters and applying parameter-driven schematic templates
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Synchronizing Schematic Editor settings across the project
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Navigating and organizing schematic library structures
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Defining symbol properties, including origin points, grid alignment, units, and graphical elements
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Assigning pin designators, electrical names, and net types
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Managing component parameters, simulation models, and manufacturer specifications
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Associating footprints and mapping pins to pads
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Constructing schematic symbols for resistors, capacitors, and LEDs
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Establishing a checkpoint for schematic component approval
Day 2 – Schematic Design Execution and Validation Protocols
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Evaluating and approving component metadata
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Analyzing schematic connectivity and overall project architecture
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Implementing wires, junctions, Net Labels, Power Ports, and directives
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Utilizing buses, ports, and off-sheet connectors for signal routing
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Structuring schematics using flat and hierarchical methodologies
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Implementing repeated-channel and multichannel design patterns
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Generating component classes and PCB Rooms derived from schematic organization
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Managing design variants and project revision history
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Constructing structured schematic layouts for instructional purposes
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Configuring error reporting rules and parameters
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Establishing connection matrix constraints
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Handling intentional exceptions via No ERC markers
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Performing validation, compilation, and review of the Messages panel
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Executing a comprehensive schematic review checklist
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Establishing the pre-PCB transfer release gate for government compliance standards
Managing parent-child sheet relationships in hierarchical designs
Day 3 – PCB Library Creation, Interface Setup, and Core Design Rules
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Navigating PCB library structures, grids, and coordinate systems
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Interpreting component datasheets and mechanical package drawings
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Designing custom PCB footprints
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Configuring pads, holes, solder mask, and paste mask parameters
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Defining mechanical layers, assembly data, and component outlines
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Integrating and verifying 3D models
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Identifying Pin One orientation and ensuring correct footprint alignment
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Conducting footprint review and approval processes for government procurement criteria
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Adjusting PCB document and view settings
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Configuring units, grids, snapping mechanisms, and selection filters
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Setting parameters for interactive routing
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Accessing the classic PCB Rules and Constraints Editor
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Defining rule scope, priorities, and query-based targeting logic
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Establishing clearance, routing width, and via constraints
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Executing Online and Batch Design Rule Checks (DRC)
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Utilizing PCB editor tools for keepouts and polygon fills
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Completing a milestone-based PCB design exercise aligned with standard workflows for government projects
Day 4 – PCB Finalization, Manufacturing Data Outputs, and DFMA Compliance
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Reviewing Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) prior to PCB transfer
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Defining board shape and mechanical constraint boundaries
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Executing component placement and conducting placement reviews
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Performing interactive routing and polygon plane creation
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Conducting final Online and Batch DRC validations
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Completing the PCB review checklist
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Preparing fabrication, assembly, and mechanical output files
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Generating Gerber or ODB++ manufacturing data
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Producing NC Drill files
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Exporting IPC-D-356 netlists
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Compiling the Bill of Materials (BOM)
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Generating Pick-and-Place data
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Drafting fabrication and assembly drawings
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Exporting STEP mechanical models
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Configuring repeatable outputs using Output Jobs for streamlined government procurement processes
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Creating human-readable documentation using the Draftsman tool
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Analyzing PCB manufacturer capability sheets to ensure compliance
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Understanding stack-up construction and controlled-construction fundamentals
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Specifying copper geometry, hole types, vias, solder mask, and surface finish requirements
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Translating manufacturing limitations into actionable PCB design rules
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Addressing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) issues within the Rules Editor
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Generating the complete production package for government contracting standards
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Opening and verifying all generated output files
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Executing the production package review and release gate authorization
Day 5 – Controlled Release Management, Advanced Workflow Optimization, and Change Control
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Implementing practical Altium 365 workflow protocols
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Saving and documenting meaningful project revisions for audit trails
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Analyzing project history records
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Utilizing browser-based sharing and design review comment features
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Managing classes, rule scopes, and priority hierarchies
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Defining Rooms and placement intent for repeated channels in government supply chains
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Tracing high-speed constraint dependency chains
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Defining differential pairs within the schematic environment
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Verifying differential pair objects within the PCB layout
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Configuring layer stacks and impedance profiles for signal integrity
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Linking impedance profiles to Differential Pairs Routing rules
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Establishing Length and Matched Length constraints
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Managing within-pair skew and group matching requirements
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Performing rule-driven length tuning and verification for defense specifications
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Synchronizing schematic data with PCB layouts
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Reviewing Engineering Change Orders before execution to maintain accountability
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Implementing late-stage engineering changes
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Protecting existing PCB work during synchronization updates
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Re-running DRC validations and updating documentation packages
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Regenerating and verifying the updated production package for government verification
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Executing a controlled re-release of design data
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Reviewing the complete PCB workflow and six designated release gates
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Adapting workflows to specific company or agency requirements for government applications
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Conducting final review and addressing Q&A regarding protocol compliance
Requirements
Prerequisites
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A foundational knowledge of electronics principles and proficiency in interpreting circuit schematics.
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Understanding of core printed circuit board (PCB) terminology, including nets, layers, pads, vias, traces, and component footprints.
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No prior exposure to Altium Designer is necessary.
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Familiarity with alternative electronic computer-aided design (ECAD) platforms, such as KiCad, EAGLE, or OrCAD, is advantageous but not a requirement.
Audience
- PCB designers and layout engineers who are new to Altium Designer or transitioning from other ECAD environments.
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Electronics and electrical engineers responsible for schematic capture, PCB layout, design review, and manufacturing documentation.
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Technicians and hardware development personnel supporting component libraries, design rule checks (DRC), design for manufacturability and assembly (DFMA), production outputs, or engineering changes for government applications.
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Engineering teams seeking a standardized workflow from schematic design to controlled production release.
