Course Outline
Project Configuration, User Interface, and Schematic Library Management
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Navigation of the Altium Designer interface, including panels, editors, and project structure
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Implementation of autosave protocols, local history logs, and version control strategies
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Establishing standardized project preparation and consistent file organization structures
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Initiation and configuration of new printed circuit board (PCB) projects
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Management of project storage locations across local, version-controlled, and Workspace environments
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Utilization of the legacy PCB Rules and Constraints Editor for design compliance
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Configuration of project parameters and the development of parameter-driven schematic templates
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Standardization of shared settings within the Schematic Editor environment
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Organization and navigation of schematic library structures for efficient asset retrieval
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Specification of symbol origins, grid settings, units, and graphical primitives for consistent symbol creation
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Assignment of pin designators, net names, and electrical properties for component accuracy
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Integration of component parameters, behavioral models, and manufacturer-specific data
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Association of schematic symbols with physical footprints and mapping of pins to pads
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Creation of schematic components for resistors, capacitors, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
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Conducting mandatory approval checkpoints for schematic component integrity
Schematic Architecture, Design, and Validation Protocols
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Systematic review and formal approval of component data integrity
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Definition of schematic connectivity and overall project architecture
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Application of wires, junctions, net labels, power ports, and simulation directives
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Implementation of buses, ports, and off-sheet connectors for complex interconnections
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Development of both flat and hierarchical schematic structures to suit design complexity
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Management of parent-child sheet relationships within hierarchical designs
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Designation of repeated-channel and multichannel architectures for scalable designs
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Generation of PCB component classes and rooms based on defined schematic structures
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Management of design variants and tracking of project revisions for configuration control
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Construction of structured course-specific schematics for practical application
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Configuration of error reporting mechanisms for accurate diagnostic feedback
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Setup and utilization of the Connection Matrix for verifying connectivity
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Handling of 'No Error Check' conditions and management of intentional electrical exceptions
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Execution of validation processes, document compilation, and review of the Messages panel
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Application of a standardized schematic review checklist to ensure compliance
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Establishment of a pre-PCB transfer release gate to enforce design quality standards
PCB Library Development, Configuration, and Core Design Rules
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Structure, navigation, and coordinate system management within PCB libraries
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Interpretation of component datasheets and manufacturer package drawings for accurate modeling
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Creation and verification of precise PCB footprints for various component types
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Configuration of pad geometry, hole dimensions, solder mask, and paste mask settings
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Definition of mechanical layers, assembly data, and component outline boundaries
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Incorporation and validation of three-dimensional (3D) models for assembly visualization
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Standardization of pin-one identification and footprint orientation markers
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Execution of footprint review and approval checklists to ensure manufacturing viability
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Configuration of PCB document properties and view settings for optimal workspace management
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Setting of units, grid intervals, snapping behavior, and selection filters for precision routing
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Optimization of interactive routing settings to enhance workflow efficiency
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Utilization of the classic PCB Rules and Constraints Editor for rule definition
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Management of rule scope, priority levels, and query-based targeting for specific design elements
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Definition of clearance, routing width, and via construction rules for signal integrity
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Execution of online and batch Design Rule Checks (DRC) to identify violations
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Use of PCB editor tools, keepout regions, and copper polygon generation
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Implementation of milestone-based exercises within the PCB design workflow
PCB Finalization, Manufacturing Data Generation, and Design for Manufacture and Assembly
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Review and approval of Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) prior to PCB data transfer
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Definition of board shape, mechanical boundaries, and structural constraints
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Strategic component placement and subsequent placement review for optimize assembly access
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Execution of interactive routing and creation of copper polygons for power and ground planes
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Completion of final online and batch DRC processes to ensure design integrity
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Application of a comprehensive PCB review checklist before data release
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Preparation of fabrication, assembly, and mechanical output files for production
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Generation of Gerber or ODB++ data formats for board fabrication
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Creation of Non-Computerized (NC) Drill files for hole placement
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Exportation of IPC-D-356 netlists for manufacturing verification
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Compilation of detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) documents
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Generation of Pick-and-Place data files for automated assembly processes
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Preparation of fabrication and assembly drawings for shop floor reference
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Exportation of STEP mechanical models for system integration and housing design
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Configuration of repeatable output jobs to ensure consistency in data generation
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Creation of human-readable technical documentation using the Draftsman module
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Interpretation of PCB manufacturer capability sheets to align design with fabrication limits
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Application of stack-up and controlled construction principles for signal integrity
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Specification of copper geometry, hole tolerances, via styles, solder mask openings, and surface finishes
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Translation of manufacturing constraints into enforceable PCB design rules
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Correction of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) issues within the Rules Editor
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Generation of the complete production data package for vendor submission
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Opening and verification of generated files to ensure data integrity
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Conducting final production package reviews and executing release gates for approval
Controlled Release, Advanced Workflows, and Change Management
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Implementation of practical Altium 365 workflows for collaborative design environments
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Strategic saving and labeling of meaningful project revisions for audit trails
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Analysis of project history for traceability and compliance monitoring
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Utilization of browser-based sharing tools and design review comment systems
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Management of component classes, rule scopes, and rule priorities for complex designs
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Configuration of rooms and repeated-channel placement intent for scalable architectures
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Understanding of the high-speed constraint dependency chain in signal routing
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Definition of differential pairs at the schematic level for high-speed signaling
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Verification of differential-pair objects and routing properties within the PCB layout
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Configuration of layer stacks and impedance profiles for controlled impedance designs
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Linkage of impedance profiles to Differential Pairs Routing rules for automatic compliance
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Application of Length and Matched Length rules to ensure timing accuracy
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Management of within-pair skew and inter-group matching for differential signals
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Execution of rule-driven length tuning and verification processes
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Maintenance of synchronization between schematic and PCB documentation
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Thorough review of Engineering Change Orders prior to execution in the layout environment
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Implementation of late-stage engineering changes with minimal disruption
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Protection of existing PCB work and design features during update processes
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Re-execution of DRC processes and updating of associated documentation
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Regeneration and verification of the production package post-change
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Execution of controlled re-release procedures to maintain design integrity
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Overview of the complete PCB workflow, including the six mandatory release gates
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Adaptation of workflows to align with specific organizational standards and policies
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Final course review and structured question-and-answer session
Requirements
Prerequisites
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A basic understanding of electronics principles and the ability to interpret circuit schematics.
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Familiarity with fundamental PCB concepts, including nets, layers, pads, vias, traces, and component footprints.
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Prior experience with Altium Designer is not required for participation.
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Experience with other Electronic Computer-Aided Design (ECAD) tools, such as KiCad, EAGLE, or OrCAD, is beneficial but not mandatory.
Target Audience
- PCB designers and layout engineers who are new to Altium Designer or transitioning from another ECAD platform.
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Electronics and electrical engineers responsible for schematic capture, PCB layout, design review, or manufacturing documentation.
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Technicians and hardware development team members who support component libraries, DRC, DFMA, production outputs, or engineering change management.
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Engineering teams seeking to establish a repeatable, auditable workflow from schematic design to controlled production release for government and public sector projects.
