Course Objective:
This comprehensive course transforms learners into professional PCB engineers. Students master schematic capture, multi-layer PCB layout, and manufacturing preparation to design production-ready boards for embedded systems built around Raspberry Pi, STM32, and ESP platforms.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Students will learn to:
- Create hierarchical, multi-sheet schematics for mixed-signal systems
- Design multi-layer PCBs with signal integrity and impedance awareness
- Run ERC/DRC checks and prepare boards for manufacturing
- Generate Gerber files, BOMs, assembly drawings, and pick-place data
- Optimize power distribution and decoupling strategies
- Build component libraries with accurate footprints and 3D models
Tools & Platforms
-
- KiCad / Altium Designer for schematic and layout
- Raspberry Pi, STMicroelectronics STM32, and ESP-based reference designs
- IPC footprint standards and stack-up calculation tools
Topics Covered
Schematic Capture
- Mixed-signal design practices
- Net classes, power symbols, hierarchical sheets
- Library and footprint creation
- Layer stack-up planning
- Trace routing, vias, copper pours
- Ground planes and return paths
- Differential pairs and length matching
- Crosstalk mitigation
- Impedance concepts and routing discipline
- PDN basics and decoupling placement
- Voltage regulators and thermal considerations
- IPC standards and fabrication drawings
- DFM/DFA checklists
- Gerber generation and panelization
- Test points and probing access
- Preparation for in-circuit and flying probe tests
- Age Group: 14–18 years
- Duration: 2 months
- Mode: Arduino IDE + IoT platforms (hands-on hardware and software integration)
Major Projects (10+ Board Designs)
- Raspberry Pi GPIO Expander Shield (custom HAT)
- STM32 3-Phase BLDC Motor Driver with current sensing
- ESP32 Multi-Sensor IoT Node with battery section
- 4-Layer Audio DAC board with careful routing discipline
- Drone Flight Controller with IMU and ESC interfaces
- USB-C Power Delivery educational board
- CAN Bus Industrial Controller with isolation concepts
- RF Beacon Tracker with PCB antenna basics
- Automotive-style Sensor Board with protection features
- Multi-Protocol Debug Board (JTAG, SWD, UART)
Course Details
- Age Group: 16+ years
- Duration: 3 Months
- Schedule: 4 Classes per week
- Mode: Complete PCB workflow from schematic to fabrication files
Components, Hardware & Software Required
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
ESP32 Development Board |
Central microcontroller platform |
Various ESP32 dev kits available |
|
USB Cable |
Programming and powering the ESP32 |
Standard micro USB or USB-C |
|
Sensors |
Temperature, Humidity, PIR motion, Gas, LDR |
Depends on projects chosen |
|
RFID Module
|
For access control project |
Commonly MFRC522 |
|
Bluetooth Module (HC-05) |
For Bluetooth communication projects |
Optional, ESP32 has built-in BLE |
|
Relay Module |
Switching higher power devices |
For smart home control |
|
LEDs, Buzzer, Buttons |
Output and control devices |
Various colors |
|
Jumper Wires & Breadboard |
Circuit prototyping
|
For easy sensor & module connection
|
|
Arduino IDE
|
Programming environment |
Free download
|
|
Blynk App |
Mobile app platform for IoT control |
Free and easy to use |
|
MIT App Inventor |
Visual app design for custom IoT controls |
Optional for custom apps |
Hardware Setup:
- Connect sensors and modules to ESP32 GPIO pins via breadboard
- Use USB cable for uploading code and serial monitoring
- Configure and connect ESP32 to Wi-Fi networks
- Control devices via mobile apps and web interfaces
Tools Needed:
- Computer or laptop with Arduino IDE installed
- Smartphone for IoT app control (Blynk or custom apps)
- Basic electronics toolkit
Additional Resources:
- ESP32 datasheets and tutorials
- IoT platform documentation (Blynk, MQTT)
- Sample code repositories and project guides
Outcome & Benefits:
Students will develop skills to create smart IoT devices capable of remote monitoring and control, preparing them for advanced projects in home automation, smart cities, and industrial IoT applications.
Key Highlights
Project Based Learning
Real World Project
Comprehensive Curriculum
Expert Instructors
6 Steps to your Course Path
Empowering Young Minds with Robotics, Coding, Innovation, and Future Skills
At Vctroid, we spark curiosity and creativity in students through hands-on robotics and coding education. Our expert-led training, gamified challenges, and international competition exposure prepare kids for tomorrow’s tech-driven world. Whether it’s logic building, real-world problem solving, or innovation—Vctroid equips young minds with future-ready skills, confidence, and a passion for technology. Let your child build the future today !
