Embedded-cHow-ToBeginner · 3 min read

How to Route Traces on PCB: Simple Guide for Beginners

To route traces on a PCB, use your PCB design software's Route or Track tool to connect component pads with copper lines following design rules. Ensure traces have proper width, clearance, and avoid sharp angles to maintain signal integrity and manufacturability.

📐

Syntax

Routing traces involves using the Route tool in PCB design software. The basic steps are:

Select the Route tool: Activates trace drawing mode.
Click on a pad or via: Start point of the trace.
Drag to the destination pad or via: Draw the trace path.
Release to finish: Completes the trace connection.

Each trace has properties like width and layer that you can set to meet electrical and manufacturing requirements.

plaintext

RouteTrace(StartPad, EndPad, Width, Layer)

// StartPad: The starting component pad or via
// EndPad: The ending component pad or via
// Width: Trace width in mils or mm
// Layer: PCB layer to route on (e.g., Top, Bottom)

💻

Example

This example shows routing a 10 mil wide trace on the top layer from a resistor pad to a capacitor pad.

plaintext

RouteTrace(R1_Pin1, C1_Pin2, 10, "Top")

Output

A 10 mil wide copper trace appears connecting resistor R1 pin 1 to capacitor C1 pin 2 on the top PCB layer.

⚠️

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when routing PCB traces include:

Using too narrow traces: Can cause overheating or signal loss.
Sharp 90-degree angles: Can cause signal reflection and manufacturing issues.
Crossing traces on the same layer: Causes shorts; use vias to change layers.
Ignoring clearance rules: Leads to electrical shorts or manufacturing defects.

Always follow your PCB manufacturer's design rules and use rounded or 45-degree angles for trace bends.

plaintext

/* Wrong way: Sharp 90-degree angle */
RouteTrace(R1_Pin1, MidPoint, 10, "Top")
RouteTrace(MidPoint, C1_Pin2, 10, "Top")

/* Right way: 45-degree angle */
RouteTrace(R1_Pin1, BendPoint45, 10, "Top")
RouteTrace(BendPoint45, C1_Pin2, 10, "Top")

📊

Quick Reference

Tips for effective PCB trace routing:

Use appropriate trace width based on current load.
Keep trace lengths as short as possible.
Use 45-degree angles instead of 90-degree bends.
Maintain proper clearance between traces and pads.
Use vias to change layers and avoid crossing traces.
Follow your PCB manufacturer's design rules strictly.

✅

Key Takeaways

Use the Route tool to connect pads with copper traces following design rules.

Choose trace width and layer carefully to ensure electrical performance and manufacturability.

Avoid sharp 90-degree angles; prefer 45-degree bends for better signal integrity.

Maintain proper clearance and avoid crossing traces on the same layer.

Use vias to change layers and keep trace paths clean and short.