CUSF PCB Checklist
This PCB design checklist contains things you should check before you send a PCB off to manufacture. It includes generally good ideas and some lessons learned the hard way! Feel free to update as experience is gained.
Schematic Checks
Check component values (including tolerances and power ratings)
Check component pinouts (check against the footprint too!)
Check over any complicated or novel sections of the schematic, especially e.g. high power and RF
Check pin allocations on a microcontroller are compatible with required peripherals
Check any serial lines have RX/TX swapped where required
ESD diodes on all world-facing connectors
Check all parts have order codes for the correct item
Check app notes and datasheets for novel parts for hints on decoupling, layout, app circuits, etc
LED indicators (status, power, etc)
Use reasonably large LED resistors - don't need to blind anyone with indicators
Don't mix up global and local/hierarchical net labels
Check label directions are appropriate (inputs/outputs/bidi/etc)
Run ERC: no errors or warnings
PCB Checks
Decoupling capacitors all close to IC power pins, with smallest values closest to the pins
Power nets as simple and tree-like as possible. Avoid loops
Ground pours should have a bit more clearance than the minimum
Stitch ground planes together well if using more than one
Crystal traces as short and symmetrical as possible
ESD diodes as close to connector pins as possible
Check component footprints against datasheet for new footprints
Double check pinouts on the PCB against the datasheet
Ensure sufficient mounting holes are present, with enough clearance for bolt heads
If the PCB has to fit in a specific geometry, check board dimensions and connector placements
Silkscreen:
Date, revision, name
Pin 1 indicators
Power and other connector pin labels
Clearly mark polarity and functionality for connectors
LED labels
Orientation labels
Check datasheets for specific PCB layout advice
No copper underneath magnetometers
GPS receiver ground planes on both layers
Add test points to nets of interest
Print out a 1:1 copy and inspect visually for anything that stands out
Check over mask and stencil settings: avoid too much mask or paste
Check positions where they're important, e.g. board mounted connectors, outline shape, location of mounting holes
Round off PCB corners
Check power traces are as thick as practical and ground planes as complete as possible
Run DRC: no errors or warnings