# Component Selection in PCB Design: How Engineers Choose the Right Parts Learn how engineers select PCB components based on electrical performance, sourcing, and manufacturability. Written by [Gabriel Hacohen](#) Published Jun 2026 - 7 min read [![A guide to PCB component selection covering electrical specs, footprints, thermal performance, and sourcing best practices](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/component-selection-pcb-design/main.webp)](#) Selecting a component that looks perfect on a schematic but fails in manufacturing is a guaranteed way to kill a project schedule. Component selection in PCB design dictates whether your theoretical circuit can actually be built, sourced, and assembled profitably. ## Key Takeaways - Tiny components might work perfectly on paper, but they [ruin production yields](#footprint-compatibility-and-mechanical-fit) if your manufacturer lacks the correct vacuum nozzles to place them. - [Global supply shortages strike without warning](#how-component-availability-impacts-design), so you must secure backup parts before finishing the schematic to avoid ripping up completed trace routes. - You [risk expensive solder defects](#common-component-selection-mistakes) on the factory floor if you trust unverified third-party footprint models instead of official datasheet measurements. ## Why Component Selection Matters An engineer can easily pick a part with the exact required capacitance and voltage rating. Electrically, the choice may be flawless. Physically, however, it might be a disaster waiting to happen. Specifying an ultra-miniature 01005 passive package, for instance, assumes your assembly partner has the advanced machinery required to actually build the board. Such tiny components measure just 0.4 mm by 0.2 mm and weigh a microscopic 0.04 mg. Standard pick-and-place machines, as well as Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) cameras fail at this size. Simply put, ignoring the physical dimensions of a component during selection will directly drive up your manufacturing costs and delay the project. Because assembly cost and yield tie directly to component packages, your choices on the schematic constrain the manufacturer's options. Selecting standard component sizes keeps the [bill of materials (BOM) cost](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/ai-driven-pcb-cost-optimization) low and ensures reliable solder joints. Minor passive components can become severe production blockers if their market availability changes late in the development cycle. ## Key Factors Engineers Consider in Component Selection PCB Workflows ### Electrical Specs and Tolerances Baseline electrical requirements for operational stability include voltage, current, switching frequency, and power dissipation, which you must evaluate alongside derating margins to guarantee long-term reliability. As a practical safeguard against failure, electronic component derating is widely adopted in industry as a means to improve reliability by ensuring the maximum applied stresses for each component do not exceed 50–90% of the supplier's rating. The exact safety margin required for your specific circuit depends on component type and the governing standard (e.g., NASA EEE-INST-002, IPC-9592, or your company's internal guidelines). Without these margins, component damage may occur when a part is subjected to power, current, voltage, or temperature that surpasses its maximum stress rating, and electrical overstress is the leading cause of field returns. ### Footprint Compatibility and Mechanical Fit Protecting against electrical stress is useless if the component cannot physically attach to the board correctly. IPC-7351B is the industry standard for surface mount land pattern design, a 102-page document that provides the formulas, dimensions, and guidelines needed to create reliable Surface Mount Device (SMD) footprints for virtually any component package. Rather than giving fixed pad dimensions, the IPC-7351B provides mathematical algorithms that calculate optimal pad sizes based on component dimensions, manufacturing tolerances, and your desired solder fillet goals. Such an algorithmic approach accommodates variations between component manufacturers and allows you to tune footprints for your specific assembly process. IPC-7351B uses a three-tier density system rather than a single footprint for each component: 1. Level A provides the largest pads and most robust solder joints, 2. Level B is the default choice for most designs, and; 3. Level C creates the smallest compliant footprints. ### Thermal Performance Even with perfectly aligned pads, components fail if they cannot shed the heat generated during operation. To prevent thermal runaway, engineers calculate thermal resistance metrics like junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (theta-JA) to verify the package can handle the expected power load. IPC-2221 defines three design classes with increasing performance and reliability requirements: 1. Class 1 for general electronic products, 2. Class 2 for dedicated service electronic products. Class 2 covers most industrial and commercial electronics requiring reliable service. 3. Class 3 for high-performance electronics requiring continuous operation and extended life. Class 3 is for critical applications (medical, aerospace, military) where failure could endanger lives. Notably, be aware of your product class type, as specifying Class 3 when Class 2 would suffice increases manufacturing cost with no added benefit. ### Component Lifecycle Status Meeting thermal and mechanical requirements is only useful if you can purchase the part. The table below maps lifecycle status to sourcing risk. ### Component Lifecycle Status Reference | Status | Availability | Sourcing Risk | Designer Action | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **Active** | Readily available | Low | Safe for new designs | | **NRND** | Declining inventory | High | Do not use for new layouts | | **EOL / Obsolete** | None | Extreme | Find immediate replacement | Not Recommended for New Design (NRND) status means the manufacturer is phasing out the component. Further, selecting an NRND part at schematic capture immediately exposes the product to a forced layout redesign within its first product cycle. ## How Component Availability Impacts Design Verifying active lifecycle status does not guarantee manufacturability if the supply chain breaks down. Unfortunately, the market is unpredictable. Sole-source dependencies, volatile lead times, and global component shortages can halt production regardless of a part's datasheet status. To guard against these sourcing nightmares, hardware teams must identify drop-in replacements and second-source components during the initial schematic phase, not after layout is complete. For products with a long intended market life, target components with five to ten years of confirmed availability from the manufacturer. Discovering an out-of-stock microcontroller after routing hundreds of high-speed differential pairs forces a rip-up that typically costs weeks. ## Best Practices for Choosing PCB Components Follow this checklist during your [component selection workflow](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/research-components-faster-with-ai): - Map the system with a functional block diagram before searching for specific part numbers. - Verify pad dimensions against IPC-7351B guidelines for the appropriate density level (A, B, or C). - Check the Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) rating per J-STD-020. For example, an MSL 3 part has a floor life of 168 hours at ≤30°C/60% RH, where floor life is the maximum time a component can be exposed to ambient conditions after removal from its moisture barrier bag before reflow must occur or baking is required. J-STD-020 is used by component manufacturers to determine the MSL rating through standardized testing. - Identify at least two alternate Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs) for every critical integrated circuit. - Confirm Z-axis height clearances match the mechanical enclosure constraints. - Verify the IPC-2221 design class requirement before routing a single trace, as it dictates annular ring sizes, conductor spacing, and copper weight. ## Common Component Selection Mistakes 1. The most costly mistake is ignoring supply chain data until the board layout is fully routed. Discovering an out-of-stock microcontroller at that stage forces the team to rip up and re-route hundreds of high-speed traces. 2. A second frequent error is trusting unverified third-party CAD models. You should verify your footprints against IPC-7351B calculations rather than blindly trusting manufacturer recommendations, with special attention to leadless packages like QFN and BGA. Dropping an unverified footprint into a design without cross-checking the datasheet dimensions leads directly to assembly yield loss. 3. Finally, designers often over-specify component tolerances. Paying for 0.1% precision resistors when 1% tolerance meets the circuit requirement drives up BOM cost with no functional benefit. Specify only what the circuit actually demands. ## How Modern PCB Tools Simplify Component Selection Legacy workflows isolate the schematic from supply chain reality, requiring engineers to juggle datasheets, footprint libraries, and distributor stock levels across separate tools. Every context switch is an opportunity to miss a lifecycle flag or an out-of-stock notice. Flux resolves this frustrating disconnect by embedding real-time intelligence directly into the design environment. Further, Flux integrates [live distributor pricing, current inventory data, and lifecycle status](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/design-real-time-supply-chain-visibility-2026) directly into the CAD interface, so sourcing-aware decisions happen at the schematic stage before a single trace is routed. You can [verify footprint compatibility, check alternate MPNs, and confirm availability](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/streamline-component-research-with-ai) without leaving the tool. ## FAQs ### What is the difference between active and passive components in PCB design? Active components, like integrated circuits and transistors, require an external power source to control electrical flow and amplify signals. Passive components, such as resistors and capacitors, require no external power and can only attenuate or store energy. ### How do I find alternative components for a PCB? To find alternative components for a PCB, use parametric search on major distributor websites to filter for identical electrical specs and package types. Modern EDA tools like Flux with integrated component libraries can also suggest pin-compatible alternatives with live stock data. ### What does NRND mean in component selection? NRND stands for Not Recommended for New Design. It indicates the manufacturer is phasing out the component and will eventually discontinue production. Do not use NRND parts in new board layouts. Mastering component selection PCB workflows is essential for any hardware team, but managing datasheets and supply chain data doesn't have to be a manual grind. Take the next step by moving your hardware design process to a unified platform where everything from schematics to inventory is connected. [Sign up for Flux](https://www.flux.ai/p) today and experience how built-in, AI-powered part intelligence helps you design smarter and ship faster. ## About the author Gabriel Hacohen Electronics Engineer at Flux Gabriel Hacohen is an electrical engineer with deep expertise in analog circuitry, medical devices, high-performance computing, and semiconductors. He holds both Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Electrical Engineering and has written for companies including NVIDIA, Cadence, Synopsys, Netflix, and Autodesk. Let’s start building Build your big idea together with Flux. All you need to do is describe what you want to make, or what problem you want to solve. Flux will work with you to make it a reality. ![Close-up photo of a PCB made with Flux, with an ESP32 module, buttons, and a microSD slot.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/miscellaneous/sidebar-cta-pcb.webp) [Try it Free](https://www.flux.ai/signup) ## More in PCB Design & Engineering Fundamentals [ ![What Is a PCB? 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The meticulous examination of the electrical connections signifies the critical nature of ensuring proper voltage levels and avoiding voltage drop, which can lead to reduced efficiency and potential damage to electrical components.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/voltage-drop/main.webp) ### Voltage Drop Calculations: Formulas, Factors, and Guidelines 5 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/importance-of-voltage-drop-calculations)[ ![An array of AC to DC converter circuit boards featuring components like transformers, bridge rectifiers, and capacitors to facilitate the conversion of alternating current to direct current.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/ac-to-dc-converters/main.webp) ### AC to DC Converter: The Backbone of Power Electronics 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/ac-to-dc-converter-the-backbone-of-power-electronics)[ ![AC-to-DC Converters: How They Work, Types, and Design Tips](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/hatter/ac-dc-converter/main.webp) ### AC-to-DC Converters: How They Work, Types, and Design Tips 5 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/what-is-an-ac-to-dc-converter-technical-basics-explained)[ ![Illustration for Thermal Management in PCB Design: Methods and Best Practices](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-thermal-management/main.webp) ### Thermal Management in PCB Design: Methods and Best Practices 10 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-thermal-management)[ ![PCB Thermal Management: Analysis and Design Best Practices](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-thermal-analysis/main.webp) ### PCB Thermal Management: Analysis and Design Best Practices 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/achieving-efficient-heat-flow-pcb-thermal-management-best-practices)[ ![Illustration of a PPS chip symbolically powering three fast charging technologies—PPS, Power Delivery (PD), and Quick Charge (QC)—on a dark background.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/programmable-power-supply/main.webp) ### Understanding PPS Fast Charging: What It Is and How It Works 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/understanding-pps-fast-charging-what-it-is-and-how-it-works)[ ![Illustration for Decoupling Capacitors in PCB Design: Placement and Selection](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/decoupling-capacitors-pcb/main.webp) ### Decoupling Capacitors in PCB Design: Placement and Selection 9 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/decoupling-capacitors-pcb)[ ![The image presents a graphical representation of Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs). On the left side of the image, there is a three-dimensional illustration of a capacitor, with a beige body and alternating white and golden layers, representing the ceramic and metal layers of the capacitor. An arrow points from this illustration to the right side of the image, where there is a cutaway view of a similar capacitor, showing multiple golden conducting layers separated by white ceramic layers, which illustrate the internal structure of the capacitor. The background is dark green, and above the illustrations, in large white and green text, the acronym "MLCCs" is spelled out, followed by the full term "MULTILAYER CERAMIC CAPACITORS" in smaller capital letters.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/multilayer-ceramic-capacitors/main.webp) ### What Is a Multilayer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC)? 5 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/what-is-a-multilayer-ceramic-capacitor-key-features-and-applications)[ ![Cutaway diagram of a tantalum capacitor showing anode, dielectric, cathode layers, epoxy case, and leads](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/tantalum-capacitor/main.webp) ### Tantalum Capacitors Guide: Polarity, Derating & Risks 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/tantalum-capacitor)[ ![A big text Amps vs Volts with their corresponding symbols (I and V) as background](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/amps-vs-volts/main.webp) ### Amps vs. Volts: Key Differences and How They Work Together 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/amps-vs-volts-understanding-the-key-differences)[ ![Never Worry About Stackups Again: Introducing the Stackup Editor](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/stackup_editor/main.webp) ### Never Worry About Stackups Again: Introducing the Stackup Editor 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/never-worry-about-stackups-again-introducing-the-stackup-editor)[ ![Flux Stackup Editor showing a Standard 4-Layer PCB stackup with Top Copper, Mid-Layer 1, Mid-Layer 2, and Bottom Copper signal layers separated by Prepreg and Core dielectric materials, with layer thicknesses and dielectric constants configured for impedance-controlled PCB design.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/multilayer-pcb-design/main.webp) ### Multilayer PCB Design: Best Practices for Circuit Board Layout 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/multilayer-pcb-design-best-practices)[ ![An illustrated guide to PCB materials comparing FR4 and advanced substrates for high-performance circuit board design](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-materials-guide/main.webp) ### How to Choose PCB Materials: FR4 vs Advanced Substrates 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-materials-guide)[ ![A detailed illustration showing the cross-section of a multilayer PCB with different via types including through-hole, blind, buried, and microvias](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-via-types-guide/main.webp) ### Blind Vias, Buried Vias, and Microvias: A Complete Guide to PCB Via Types 12 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-via-types-guide)[ ![A 2d view and layout of a pcb board design showing different type of vias](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/different-type-vias/main.webp) ### Exploring Different Types of Vias in PCB 2 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/exploring-different-types-of-pcb-vias)[ ![A complex PCB board with high-density interconnect (HDI) technology, featuring advanced routing on each of its copper layers.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/smart-micro-vias-blind-buried-vias/main.webp) ### High-Density PCBs just got easier with Smart Vias 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/high-density-pcbs-just-got-easier-with-smart-vias)[ ![A detailed illustration of a multilayer PCB cross-section showing via stitching connecting ground planes across layers](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/via-stitching-pcb-guide/main.webp) ### How to Use Via Stitching in PCB Design 11 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/via-stitching-pcb-guide)[ ![An illustration of PCB design constraints showing electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing rules](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-design-constraints/main.webp) ### PCB Design Constraints: What Engineers Need to Know 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-design-constraints)[ ![PCB constraint management showing how engineers control layout rules for routing, spacing, and impedance](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-constraint-management/main.webp) ### PCB Constraint Management: How Engineers Control Layout Rules 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-constraint-management)[ ![Design Rule Checking (DRC) in PCB Design: Real-Time vs Batch, Rules, and Common Failures](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-drc/main.webp) ### Design Rule Checking (DRC) in PCB Design: Real-Time vs Batch, Rules, and Common Failures 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-design-rule-checking-drc)[ ![ERC vs DRC in PCB design showing the difference between electrical rule checks and design rule checks](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/erc-vs-drc/main.webp) ### Electrical Rule Check (ERC) vs DRC in PCB Design 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/erc-vs-drc)[ ![A guide to PCB design reviews covering schematic, layout, and DFM checks for catching errors early](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-design-review-process/main.webp) ### PCB Design Reviews: Best Practices for Catching Errors Early 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-design-review-process)[ ![Common PCB Design Mistakes and How to Avoid Them](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-design-mistakes/main.webp) ### Common PCB Design Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 31 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-design-mistakes)[ ![Image showing a stack of printed circuit boards (PCBs) with a large white 'X' over them, highlighting '5 Common Mistakes in PCB Design.' The background features intricate PCB traces in red and blue on a dark surface, with a purple gradient highlighting the title. The image emphasizes errors commonly made in PCB design, such as layout, signal integrity, and component placement.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/5-common-mistakes-in-pcb-design/main.webp) ### 5 Common PCB Design Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/5-pcb-design-mistakes-that-could-ruin-your-board)[ ![A guide to PCB silkscreen design covering labeling, readability, and common manufacturing mistakes](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-silkscreen-design/main.webp) ### PCB Silkscreen Design: Guidelines and Common Mistakes 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-silkscreen-design)[ ![Advanced complex PCB boards using Flux's Smart Polygons](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/smart-polygons/main.webp) ### Smart Polygons: Advanced PCB Design Just Got Easier 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/smart-polygons-advanced-pcb-design-just-got-easier)[ ![A complex printed circuit board with lots of electronic components. A 3D render of the PCB on Flux.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/new-3d-render/main.webp) ### Automatically Create Photorealistic PCB Renders 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/automatically-create-photorealistic-pcb-renders)[ ![A tool on Flux to measure the distance between two pads in PCB editor with a text mm to mil conversion.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/mm-to-mil/main.webp) ### How to Convert from MM to Mils: a Guide for Beginners 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/how-to-convert-from-mm-to-mils-a-guide-for-beginners)[ ![Illustration of a printed circuit board showing solder mask over copper traces and exposed pads.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/what-is-solder-mask/main.webp) ### What Is Solder Mask? Materials, Colors, and PCB Design Rules 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/what-is-solder-mask)[ ![Designing Custom PCB Outlines: Fixing DXF and SVG Import Failures](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/import-dxf-board-outline-error/main.webp) ### Designing Custom PCB Outlines: Fixing DXF and SVG Import Failures 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/import-dxf-board-outline-error)[ ![PCB Enclosure Design: How to Design an Enclosure](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-enclosure-design/main.webp) ### PCB Enclosure Design: How to Design an Enclosure 13 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-enclosure-design)[ ![Flux Copilot’s new AI-powered part search makes finding and placing components faster and easier using natural language.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/smarter-part-search/main.webp) ### Smarter Part Search Just Got a Major Upgrade 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/smarter-part-search-just-got-a-major-upgrade)[ ![A detailed illustration showing PCB footprint design with pad layout, silkscreen markings, and courtyard boundaries](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-footprint-design-guide/main.webp) ### How to Design a PCB Footprint (Step-by-Step Guide) 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-footprint-design-guide)[ ![A close-up xray of printed circuit board with its multi-layer traces featuring short circuit and over current protection.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/protection-circuit-101/main.webp) ### Protection Circuit 101: Securing Your Electronics from Overcurrent and Short Circuits 5 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/protection-circuit-101-securing-your-electronics-from-overcurrent-and-short-circuits)[ ![Diagram of a simple circuit with an inductor and a flyback diode. The resistor represents the resistance of the inductor's windings.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/flyback-diodes/main.webp) ### Understanding the Flyback Diode: Your Essential Guide to Functionality and Why You Need One 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/understanding-the-flyback-diode-your-essential-guide-to-functionality-and-why-you-need-one)[ ![3D render of a zener diode with its electronic symbol and pinout which consists of anode and cathode](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/what-is-zener-diode/main.webp) ### What Is a Zener Diode? How It Works and Where It’s Used 5 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/what-is-a-zener-diode-an-essential-breakdown)[ ![A cross-section through an nMOSFET when the gate voltage VGS is below the threshold for making a conductive channel; there is little or no conduction between the terminals drain and source; the switch is off. When the gate is more positive, it attracts electrons, inducing an n-type conductive channel in the substrate below the oxide (yellow), which allows electrons to flow between the n-doped terminals; the switch is on.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/mosfet-basics/main.webp) ### Understanding the Fundamentals: MOSFET Basics for Beginners 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/understanding-the-fundamentals-mosfet-basics-for-beginners)[ ![Typical schematic diagram of LM741, a classic operational amplifier](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/lm741/main.webp) ### LM741 Pinout: A Deep Dive into a Classic Op Amp 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/lm741-pinout-a-deep-dive-into-a-classic-op-amp)[ ![An assortment of variable resistors displayed on a dark background with the text 'Variable Resistors' at the top and a circuit symbol for a variable resistor in the center](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/6-types-of-variable-resistors/main.webp) ### 6 Types of Variable Resistors: a Detailed Look at Their Uses 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/6-types-of-variable-resistors-a-detailed-look-at-their-uses)[ ### Parallel and Series Resistor Calculator 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/parallel-and-series-resistor-calculator)[ ![A resistor showing its different color bands](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/site-cms/643f890cd71a69ee18b71efa_resistor-color-code-calculator.png) ### Resistor Color Code Calculator 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/resistor-color-code-calculator)[ ![A comparison illustration of SMT and through-hole PCB assembly technologies](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/smt-vs-through-hole/main.webp) ### SMT vs Through-Hole Technology: Which Should You Use? 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/smt-vs-through-hole)[ ![A person soldering a circuit board made with Flux](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/flux-soldering/main.webp) ### How to Use Flux When Soldering Electronics 13 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/solder-flux-guide-for-soldering)[ ![Different types of toggle switches scattered and a big text - Toggle switch](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/toggle-switch/main.webp) ### The Ultimate Guide to Toggle Switches: Types, Uses, and How They Work 3 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-toggle-switches-types-uses-and-how-they-work)[ ![A push button switch soldered on a rigid-flex printed circuit board](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/push-button/main.webp) ### What Is the Science Behind Push Button Switches and How They Work 6 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/what-is-the-science-behind-push-button-switches-and-how-they-work)[ ![Tactile Switches: Wiring, Debouncing, and PCB Design](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/tactile-switches-guide/main.webp) ### Tactile Switches: Wiring, Debouncing, and PCB Design 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/tactile-switches-guide)[ ![Close up of different types of electrical connectors, wire connectors, and solder connectors piled up.](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/electrical-connectors/main.webp) ### Electrical Wire Connector Types and Uses 4 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-electrical-connectors-and-wiring-connection)[ ![An illustration of PCB debugging tools and techniques including multimeter, oscilloscope, and thermal imaging](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/pcb-debugging-common-issues/main.webp) ### Why Your PCB Is Failing: Debugging Common Issues 7 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/pcb-debugging-common-issues)[ ![555 Timer Guide: Pinout, Operating Modes, and Circuit Examples](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/555-timer/main.webp) ### 555 Timer Guide: Pinout, Operating Modes, and Circuit Examples 10 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/555-timer)[ ![Inverting Op-Amp Circuits: Formula, Gain, and Design Examples](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/inverting-op-amp/main.webp) ### Inverting Op-Amp Circuits: Formula, Gain, and Design Examples 10 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/inverting-op-amp)[ ![How to Wire a Potentiometer: Pinout, Diagrams, and PCB Examples](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/blogs/how-to-wire-a-potentiometer/main.webp) ### How to Wire a Potentiometer: Pinout, Diagrams, and PCB Examples 8 Min Read](https://www.flux.ai/p/blog/how-to-wire-a-potentiometer) See All (107) ## Let’s start building. Let’s build your idea together. All you need to do is describe what you want to make, or what problem you want to solve. Flux will work with you to make it a reality. [Try it Free](https://www.flux.ai/signup) ![Close-up of a Flux-designed printed circuit board](https://www.flux.ai/p/assets/homepage-v2/mission-visual.webp)