Introduction to Printed Circuit Board Design

Abstract

This course will introduce participants to the foundational principles of PCB design, focusing on the practical application of concepts through hands-on learning. Over six weeks, students will explore key topics, including an overview of PCB materials, construction techniques, and component selection. Participants will learn how to create schematic diagrams, design PCB layouts, perform design rule checks, and generate essential files for manufacturing using KiCad, an open-source PCB design tool.

The course will also cover the creation of a Bill of Materials (BOM) and provide an introduction to the fundamentals of PCB assembly and testing. Each session combines 45 minutes of lecture with 45 minutes of hands-on practice, ensuring that students not only understand the theoretical aspects but also gain practical experience in developing their own PCBs, progressing from initial concept to final design. Interactive sessions are designed to provide immediate feedback and guidance from a PCB design expert. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to undertake their own PCB design projects, culminating in the completion of a custom PCB project that showcases their newly acquired abilities.

Instructor

Dr. Shane Smith (Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, The Ohio State University) is a Research Scientist at the Ohio State University ElectroscienceLab and President and co-founder of SenseICs Corporation. Shane has worked for more than 20 years designing, producing, and maintaining electronic systems used in integrated circuit research, high energy physics experiments (CERN, Stanford linear accelerator, etc.), and other applications. Shane’s broad expertise covers a range of electrical engineering activities including the design and development of radiation hard mixed signal ASICs, FPGA based data acquisition systems, medical imaging electronics, chemical vapor deposition diamond detectors, and high voltage power supply systems. Additionally, his academic publications, which include more than 80 peer-reviewed conference papers and journal articles, have been cited more than 20,000 times.

Target Audience

Designed for U.S. citizens working in the Department of War, Government, or Government-affiliated employees, industry, as well as college students and faculty. Must register with your organizational email, and will be notified of acceptance within one week of the course start date.

Course Details

January 13, 2026 – February 19, 2026

Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 PM until 4:30 PM ET

Synchronous over Zoom

18 hours | 6 weeks | 1.5-hr lectures twice a week

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