basic PCB design

Community PCB Design
1

Hi Everyone,

I’m totally new to PCB design and I have a basic question that I cant find an answer to online. When using software like Eagle or similar to design PCBs, are components like resistors, capacitors and transistors built into the board or do they need to be purchased separately and soldered down? I would think the latter, however I’m confused because when I look at a design board like Arduino, you cant see any of these components soldered to the board. Sorry for the noob question.

Thanks!

2

Yes, PCB software is just to design or layout the PCB (Printed Circuit Board). The next step is to send the output files for the PCB to a ‘board house’ to make the PCB or make it yourself (search these forums for discussions on methods).

Once you have the ‘blank’ PCB you then solder all of the components to the board.

I suggest buying and building on of SparkFun’s simple kits. This will help answer some of your questions and you’ll starting learning about the process.