• Terminal
    Terminal
    An electrical connector acting as reusable interface to a conductor and creating a point where external circuits can be connected.
  • Ground
    A common return path for electric current. Commonly known as ground.
  • Net Portal
    A net identifier used to create connectivity to other Net Portal with the same designator. #portal
  • Power Net Portal
    Power net portal is a special schematic object used to define a power or ground net. Power ports allow you to conveniently indicate a power net at any location in the design. Power nets of the same designator automatically connect throughout your design #portal #power
  • Generic Resistor
    A generic fixed resistor for rapid developing circuit topology. Save precious design time by seamlessly add more information to this part (value, footprint, etc.) as it becomes available. Standard resistor values: 1.0Ω 10Ω 100Ω 1.0kΩ 10kΩ 100kΩ 1.0MΩ 1.1Ω 11Ω 110Ω 1.1kΩ 11kΩ 110kΩ 1.1MΩ 1.2Ω 12Ω 120Ω 1.2kΩ 12kΩ 120kΩ 1.2MΩ 1.3Ω 13Ω 130Ω 1.3kΩ 13kΩ 130kΩ 1.3MΩ 1.5Ω 15Ω 150Ω 1.5kΩ 15kΩ 150kΩ 1.5MΩ 1.6Ω 16Ω 160Ω 1.6kΩ 16kΩ 160kΩ 1.6MΩ 1.8Ω 18Ω 180Ω 1.8KΩ 18kΩ 180kΩ 1.8MΩ 2.0Ω 20Ω 200Ω 2.0kΩ 20kΩ 200kΩ 2.0MΩ 2.2Ω 22Ω 220Ω 2.2kΩ 22kΩ 220kΩ 2.2MΩ 2.4Ω 24Ω 240Ω 2.4kΩ 24kΩ 240kΩ 2.4MΩ 2.7Ω 27Ω 270Ω 2.7kΩ 27kΩ 270kΩ 2.7MΩ 3.0Ω 30Ω 300Ω 3.0KΩ 30KΩ 300KΩ 3.0MΩ 3.3Ω 33Ω 330Ω 3.3kΩ 33kΩ 330kΩ 3.3MΩ 3.6Ω 36Ω 360Ω 3.6kΩ 36kΩ 360kΩ 3.6MΩ 3.9Ω 39Ω 390Ω 3.9kΩ 39kΩ 390kΩ 3.9MΩ 4.3Ω 43Ω 430Ω 4.3kΩ 43KΩ 430KΩ 4.3MΩ 4.7Ω 47Ω 470Ω 4.7kΩ 47kΩ 470kΩ 4.7MΩ 5.1Ω 51Ω 510Ω 5.1kΩ 51kΩ 510kΩ 5.1MΩ 5.6Ω 56Ω 560Ω 5.6kΩ 56kΩ 560kΩ 5.6MΩ 6.2Ω 62Ω 620Ω 6.2kΩ 62KΩ 620KΩ 6.2MΩ 6.8Ω 68Ω 680Ω 6.8kΩ 68kΩ 680kΩ 6.8MΩ 7.5Ω 75Ω 750Ω 7.5kΩ 75kΩ 750kΩ 7.5MΩ 8.2Ω 82Ω 820Ω 8.2kΩ 82kΩ 820kΩ 8.2MΩ 9.1Ω 91Ω 910Ω 9.1kΩ 91kΩ 910kΩ 9.1MΩ #generics #CommonPartsLibrary
  • Generic Capacitor
    A generic fixed capacitor for rapid developing circuit topology. Save precious design time by seamlessly add more information to this part (value, footprint, etc.) as it becomes available. Standard capacitor values: 1.0pF 10pF 100pF 1000pF 0.01uF 0.1uF 1.0uF 10uF 100uF 1000uF 10,000uF 1.1pF 11pF 110pF 1100pF 1.2pF 12pF 120pF 1200pF 1.3pF 13pF 130pF 1300pF 1.5pF 15pF 150pF 1500pF 0.015uF 0.15uF 1.5uF 15uF 150uF 1500uF 1.6pF 16pF 160pF 1600pF 1.8pF 18pF 180pF 1800pF 2.0pF 20pF 200pF 2000pF 2.2pF 22pF 20pF 2200pF 0.022uF 0.22uF 2.2uF 22uF 220uF 2200uF 2.4pF 24pF 240pF 2400pF 2.7pF 27pF 270pF 2700pF 3.0pF 30pF 300pF 3000pF 3.3pF 33pF 330pF 3300pF 0.033uF 0.33uF 3.3uF 33uF 330uF 3300uF 3.6pF 36pF 360pF 3600pF 3.9pF 39pF 390pF 3900pF 4.3pF 43pF 430pF 4300pF 4.7pF 47pF 470pF 4700pF 0.047uF 0.47uF 4.7uF 47uF 470uF 4700uF 5.1pF 51pF 510pF 5100pF 5.6pF 56pF 560pF 5600pF 6.2pF 62pF 620pF 6200pF 6.8pF 68pF 680pF 6800pF 0.068uF 0.68uF 6.8uF 68uF 680uF 6800uF 7.5pF 75pF 750pF 7500pF 8.2pF 82pF 820pF 8200pF 9.1pF 91pF 910pF 9100pF #generics #CommonPartsLibrary
  • Generic Inductor
    A generic fixed inductor for rapid developing circuit topology. *You can now change the footprint and 3D model at the top level anytime you want. This is the power of #generics
  • 875105359001
    10uF Capacitor Aluminum Polymer 20% 16V SMD 5x5.3mm #forLedBlink #commonpartslibrary #capacitor #aluminumpolymer #radialcan
  • CTL1206FYW1T
    Yellow 595nm LED Indication - Discrete 1.7V 1206 (3216 Metric) #forLedBlink
  • 1070TR
    Battery Holder (Open) Coin, 20.0mm 1 Cell SMD (SMT) Tab bate or batt #forLedBlink
Menu Input
Screen
H1
To Control Board
Mode Selector

NERF Screen and Switches

NERF Screen and Switches
Description

Created
September 15th 2024
Last updated by teaching-tomorrow
3 months ago
1 Contributor(s)
teaching-tomorrow

Controls

Properties

Availability & Pricing

DistributorQty 1
Arrow$1.34–$2.17
Digi-Key$2.70
LCSC$0.51
Mouser$2.12
Verical$1.47–$3.13

Assets

    DefaultThumbnail
  • thumbnail
    Bodacious Bombul-Kasi (3).svg

    id=NERF Input Panel

Simulation

µs

Simulation Speed

where is the setting for magnetic alignment
@copilot where is the setting for magnetic alignment
3mo
In Flux, the setting for magnetic alignment is usually found in the application's settings or preferences menu. This feature helps to align parts and wires neatly on your schematic or PCB layout, snapping them to a grid or to other components for easy alignment.
To enable or adjust magnetic alignment:

  1. Open the Settings Menu: Look for a gear icon or a settings option at the top or side menu.
  2. Navigate to Grid/Magnetic Alignment: There should be a section related to the grid or alignment options.
  3. Enable Magnetic Alignment: Toggle the magnetic alignment or snapping option. You may also be able to adjust the grid size or snapping strength.
If you can't find these options in your current interface, consider checking any help resources offered by Flux for the most detailed steps specific to your version.
3mo
create a high level mermaid block diagram of this project. Include key component...
@copilot create a high level mermaid block diagram of this project. Include key component's manufacturer part number in each block whenever possible.
3mo
Here's a high-level Mermaid block diagram of your project, illustrating the key components along with their manufacturer part numbers:

Image


Net 1
Net 8
Net 6
Net 5
Net 7
Net 1
Net 10
Net 11
Net 12
Button: B3F-1000
Manufacturer: Omron
Switch: SS-24E06-TG 5 $P$
Manufacturer: C&K
Connector: S8B-XH-A$LF$(SN)
Manufacturer: JST
OLED Display
Part Number: Unknown
Mounting Hole: MountingHole
Exclude from BOM
Mounting Hole: MountingHole
Exclude from BOM
This diagram captures the key connections and components in your project. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to adjust or explore further!
3mo
I'm trying to line up the traces with the nodes, but the alignment tool isn't wo...
@copilot I'm trying to line up the traces with the nodes, but the alignment tool isn't working. Is there a setting I can change so the nodes and traces snap into alignment while drawing them?
3mo
In Flux, aligning traces with nodes can be achieved using alignment features, but it may not automatically snap nodes and traces into alignment while drawing them. You might try using the grid and magnetic alignment features that help guide alignment during the design process.
Here are some suggestions to try:

  1. Magnetic Alignment: Similar to the concept of snapping, the magnetic alignment feature helps guide the components and traces into alignment as you move them around on the canvas.
  2. Use the Alignment Markers: Drag components around and you can see alignment markers appear that guide you to align parts and traces with each other[1].
  3. Manual Adjustment: If snapping isn’t automatically working for traces, you might have to manually adjust the nodes or routes after placing them by dragging them to align properly. Flux allows meticulous adjustment of wire positions, which means you can drag individual wire sections to precisely place them[2].
  4. Shortcut Keys: You might want to use shortcuts for efficiently aligning components. For example, right-clicking and selecting alignment options can help in ensuring everything is properly aligned[3].
These steps should assist in achieving a more aligned and organized layout in your schematic. If there's an issue with the tool itself, double-check your software version and settings for any updates or specific configuration that might affect this behavior. Let me know if you have further details or need additional help!
3mo
are there any issues in this project?
@copilot are there any issues in this project?
3mo
Let's analyze the provided project to identify any potential issues or points for improvement. We'll check for:

  1. Unconnected Pins: Ensure all necessary pins are connected.
  2. Inconsistent Connections: Verify that components are correctly connected as intended.
  3. Power and Ground Connections: Ensure that all components requiring power and ground are connected appropriately.
  4. Intended Functionality: Consider whether the nets and components are connected to achieve the intended project functionality.
Observations:

  • Unconnected Pins:

    • The rotary switch S1S1 has several pins (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) not listed in any nets. Make sure this is deliberate, as unconnected pins might be needed for your design.
    • The pushbutton switch S2S2 has one pin (4) that is unconnected. Verify if it needs to be connected.
    • The connector J1J1 has one pin (10) and two shield pins unconnected. Confirming these are unused or connected elsewhere might be necessary.
  • Inconsistent Connections:

    • Ensure the intended signals, power, and ground connections match the desired circuit functionalities.
  • Power and Ground Connections:

    • OLED1OLED1 is correctly connected to a 5V net and ground, which should provide it with the necessary power and ground connections.
Recommendations:

  1. Review Unconnected Pins:

    • Double-check to ensure if any of the remaining unconnected pins on the identified components should be actively used in your design.
  2. Check Functionality:

    • Consider what each component and net should achieve in your project. Confirm all essential nets are in place for your application.
  3. Implied Connections:

    • In the absence of specific operations, verify that each connected component serves a role and is properly integrated into the circuit.
If additional context for the intended functionality is available, please share it, and I can provide more targeted feedback or suggestions!
3mo
Hi! I’m Copilot, I’m here to help you design your hardware projects. Ask me anyt...
Hi! I’m Copilot, I’m here to help you design your hardware projects. Ask me anything:
@copilot can you partner up with me to design a PCB?
@copilot give me a few architecture options for an affordable Al pendant using mermaid diagrams.
@copilot how can I build a schematic with Flux?
To learn more, check out Getting Started with Copilot.
3mo
@copilot can you partner up with me to design a PCB?
3mo
Absolutely! I'd be thrilled to help you design a PCB. Here’s how we can proceed:

  1. Project Requirements:

    • Define the purpose of your circuit.
    • List any specific components you plan to use or want recommended.
  2. Schematic Design:

    • Create a schematic of the circuit within Flux.
    • Identify connections and designators for components.
  3. Component Placement:

    • Arrange the components on the PCB in a way that optimizes space and performance.
  4. Routing:

    • Connect the components using traces. Consider factors like trace width and layer usage.
  5. Design Rules Check (DRC):

    • Ensure the design complies with manufacturing and electrical standards.
  6. Final Review:

    • Review and validate the PCB design.
Feel free to share details about your project or any specific areas you need help with, and we can get started!
3mo
This project is meant to create a pcb to fit inside a 3d printed nerf blaster. The purpose is to reduce the space taken up by the various wires and components inside of the shell of the blaster. Please let me know when you are ready for descriptions of each component.
3mo
Certainly! Please provide the details of each component you plan to use, including:

  • The type of component (e.g., microcontroller, motor driver, sensor, switch).
  • The number of each component.
  • Any specific part numbers or requirements (e.g., size constraints, voltage ratings).
  • Any interface or connection preferences you have.
Once I have that information, we can proceed with sketching the schematic and planning the PCB layout.
3mo
ok, first, the entire project is controlled by a Seeed Xiao microcontroller. There is a display that uses the 3.3v output from the board to power it, and uses sdl/scl to interface. There is a 4 position latching slide switch, a momentary switch, and a 2 position latching slide switch. There are two V-156-1C25 micro switches connected to MOSFETs, with one controlling 4 dc motors and the other controlling a push/pull solenoid.
3mo
Great! Here's a summary of your components and their roles:

  1. Microcontroller: Seeed Xiao

    • Powers and controls the entire circuit.
    • Interfaces with a display via I2C (SDA, SCL).
    • Provides 3.3V power to the display.
  2. Display:

    • Powered from the 3.3V output of the Seeed Xiao.
    • Interfaces via I2C (SDA and SCL).
  3. Switches:

    • 4-position latching slide switch: Use for mode selection or other multi-state functions.
    • Momentary switch: Typically used for triggering actions like firing.
    • 2-position latching slide switch: Use for simple on/off functions.
  4. Micro Switches:

    • V-156-1C25
    • Each controls a MOSFET:

      • First controls 4 DC motors.
      • Second controls a push/pull solenoid.
Let's plan the connections:
Connections Plan:

  • Seeed Xiao to Display:

    • Connect Seeed Xiao:3.3V to Display:VCC.
    • Connect Seeed Xiao:GND to Display:GND.
    • Connect Seeed Xiao:SDA to Display:SDA.
    • Connect Seeed Xiao:SCL to Display:SCL.
  • Microcontroller to Switches:

    • Connect the 4-position latching slide switch, momentary switch, and 2-position latching slide switch to GPIO pins on the Seeed Xiao. You'll need to decide which pins based on available I/O.
  • Micro Switches to MOSFETs:

    • Connect V-156-1C25:Common to one MOSFET:Gate and Source.
    • Connect V-156-1C25:Normally Open to MOSFET:Gate and Source.
    • Connect the output of the MOSFETs to the motors and solenoid as needed.
Next steps are to sketch the schematic and ensure that all connections and components fit your space constraints. Let me know if you need specifics on any connections or further guidance!
3mo
In addition to these components, there is another necessity of this design. I will need three separate pcbs. One for the display, the two slide switches, and the momentary switch. One for the two trigger micro switches and the mosfets. And a final one for the Xiao board. I would like to keep the connectors simple and use ribbon cable if possible.
3mo
Understood! Let's break down the design into three separate PCBs, along with the appropriate connections using ribbon cables:
PCB 1: Display and Switches
Components:

  • Display
  • 4-position latching slide switch
  • Momentary switch
  • 2-position latching slide switch
Connections:

  • Display: Connected to the ribbon cable for I2C (SDA, SCL) and power ($3.3$V, GND).
  • Switches: Connect to separate pins on the ribbon cable that will lead to GPIO pins on the Seeed Xiao.
PCB 2: Micro Switches and MOSFETs
Components:

  • Two V-156-1C25 micro switches
  • Two MOSFETs
Connections:

  • Micro Switches: Connect to the ribbon cable for control signals from the Seeed Xiao.
  • MOSFETs: Controlled by the micro switches and connected through ribbon cables for power and control signals to the motors and solenoid.
PCB 3: Seeed Xiao
Components:

  • Seeed Xiao microcontroller
Connections:

  • This PCB will have connectors for ribbon cables leading to PCB 1 and PCB 2.
  • I2C and switch signals will be routed through the ribbon cables from this central PCB.
Connectors and Ribbon Cables

  • Use a standard ribbon cable connector with the number of lines corresponding to your needs (e.g., $8$ or $10$-pin headers).
  • Ensure each PCB has matching connectors to facilitate easy assembly and disassembly.
Next Steps

  • Create Schematic and Layout: Start designing the schematic and layout for each PCB in Flux, keeping in mind the physical constraints inside the Nerf blaster.
  • Optimize Wiring: Minimize trace length and ensure signal integrity, especially for I2C and MOSFET control lines.
  • Design Rules Check (DRC): Once the layout is complete, run a design rules check.
Would you like guidance on how to create individual schematics in Flux or further help with specific parts?
3mo
Yes, please help me design this
3mo
Alright, let's get started step-by-step. We'll first create a high-level plan for each PCB and then move to the schematic design in Flux. Here's a comprehensive guide:
PCB 1: Display and Switches

  1. Schematic Design:

    • Display: Connect the I2C pins $SDA, SCL$ and power pins $VCC, GND$ to a connector for the ribbon cable.
    • Switches: Connect each switch to individual GPIO pins on the connector header.
  2. Layout Planning:

    • Ensure the display and switches are placed logically for easy routing.
    • Place the connector for the ribbon cable in a convenient position.
PCB 2: Micro Switches and MOSFETs

  1. Schematic Design:

    • Micro Switches: Connect to the Gate of corresponding MOSFETs.
    • MOSFETs: Connect outputs to connectors for motors/solenoid and inputs from the micro switches.
  2. Layout Planning:

    • Arrange micro switches and MOSFETs with connectors for ribbon cables leading to the Seeed Xiao PCB.
    • Ensure robust trace design for high-power components.
PCB 3: Seeed Xiao

  1. Schematic Design:

    • Connect the Seeed Xiao's I2C and GPIO to connectors leading to the corresponding PCBs.
    • Include power connections for the supplied peripherals.
  2. Layout Planning:

    • Minimize the footprint, aligning the connectors for clean cable management.
    • Ensure adequate decoupling and layout space around the microcontroller.
Steps to Design in Flux

  1. Open Flux and create a new project for each PCB.
  2. Component Placement: Place the necessary components from Flux's library onto the schematic.
  3. Routing: Use the net tool to connect components as per the design plan. Pay attention to power traces and I2C signals for integrity.
  4. Create Connectors for interfaces between PCBs. Ensure they have matching pinouts on each PCB.
  5. Design Rules Check (DRC): Run regular checks to ensure compliance with design standards.
  6. Iterate Designs: Modify any part of the design to fit physically inside the Nerf blaster or based on constraints or requirements.
As you progress, feel free to ask for specific advice on routing, parts selection, or resolving DRC issues! Let me know if there are specific parts or segments you'd like to focus on now, or if you have any particular questions as you start designing!
3mo
are you able to place these components for me?
3mo
I can't directly place components in your Flux project from here, but I can guide you through the process! Here's how you can place components in your Flux project:
Steps to Place Components in Flux

  1. Open Flux.ai:

    • Log in to Flux and open your project.
  2. Search for Components:

    • Use the search function to find each component by its name or part number.
    • Examples:

      • Search for the Seeed Xiao.
      • Locate display module pins, MOSFETs, micro switches, and other parts as needed.
  3. Place Components:

    • Drag and drop each component into the schematic area from the search results.
  4. Arrange Components:

    • Organize the components logically based on their connection needs.
    • Consider physical layout constraints inside the Nerf blaster.
  5. Connect Components:

    • Use the "Net" tool to draw connections between pins as per the connection plan outlined.
  6. Add Connectors for Ribbon Cables:

    • Place standard pin headers for connecting each PCB via ribbon cables.
    • Match the number of pins to those needed for each connection group.
Once you have everything placed, you can begin routing the connections on each PCB. If you'd like more detailed help about where to place each connection or how the routing should be executed, just let me know!
3mo
where is the net tool you mentioned?
3mo
In Flux, the "Net" tool is used to create electrical connections, or nets, between component pins within your schematic. Here's how you can find and use it:

  1. Open Your Schematic:

    • Start by opening the schematic view of your project in Flux.
  2. Select the Net Tool:

    • Typically, there is a toolbar or menu containing various tools you can use to edit your schematic.
    • Look for an icon or menu item labeled "Net" or "Wire" that allows you to draw lines connecting pins. Sometimes, it might look like a simple wire icon or a pen tool.
    • If you're unable to find it right away, you might also check the Flux documentation or tutorials provided within the platform for guidance.
  3. Draw Connections:

    • Click on the pin of a component where you want to start the connection.
    • Drag the line to the corresponding pin of another component and click again to make the connection.
    • The tool typically allows you to create right-angle connections for neatness.
  4. Naming Nets:

    • Optionally, name the nets to indicate the signal they represent, which can help in organizing and understanding your schematic.
Using the Net tool will allow you to visually represent and plan the electrical connections for your circuit. If you need more specific guidance or run into any roadblocks while doing this, feel free to ask!
3mo
is there a way to apply an auto trace?
3mo
Yes, Flux does provide features that can simplify the routing process, though the level of automation might vary. Here's how you can use these features in Flux:

  1. Autoroute Tool:

    • In the PCB layout view of your project, look for an "Autoroute" or similar option in the toolbar or menu.
    • This tool attempts to route the connections between components automatically based on the existing netlist.
  2. Running the Autorouter:

    • Before running the autorouter, ensure that all components are placed on the PCB where you want them.
    • Select the autoroute feature, and it should generate the traces between the components based on your schematic connections.
  3. Manual Adjustments:

    • After the autorouter completes, you might find it necessary to adjust some traces manually for optimal performance, to meet design rules, or to comply with specific layout constraints.
  4. Design Rules Check (DRC):

    • Run a DRC to ensure the autorouted traces meet all manufacturing and design standards.
While autorouting can be a powerful tool to speed up the PCB design process, it might not always provide the best results for all types of designs, especially those with high-speed or critical signal integrity requirements. You might want to manually route key traces like power lines and I2C signals if precision is essential.
If you need detailed help on manually routing particular traces or resolving potential autorouter issues, feel free to reach out!
3mo
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Checks that the power traveling across a given resistor is under its rating with 50% headroom.
Learn more
Checks that IC pins that require pull up or pull down resistors have them.
Learn more
Checks that capacitors have appropriate voltage ratings to prevent overheating and ensure reliable circuit operation.
Checks that all parts have a part number and are available from distributors.
Des
Net
Des
Net
Trace 0e8e
Net 6
Through-hole - 1
Net 5
Reports parts that have no footprint.
Reports nodes that are assigned to a layer that doesn't exist in the layout stackup.
Designator
Ruleset
*`REF`*
Override rule for *`REF`*
*`REF`*
Override rule for *`REF`*
*`REF`*
Override rule for *`REF`*
*`REF`*
Override rule for *`REF`*
Silk Shapes
Override rule for Silk Shapes
Fab Shapes
Override rule for Fab Shapes
Designators
Net
1, GND
Net 1
SCL, 3
Net 10
4, SDA
Net 11
5V, 2
Net 12
Reports nodes that are using rules that are not supported anymore.
Reports layers that have multiple copper fills of different nets. Make sure the Connected Layers rule value of nets with fills is valid.
Detect any via, trace or copper fill island that is not connected to any net.