Design for Manufacture with SparkFun
Over 500 curated and proven EAGLE design files to help you get started
Resources for every step of EAGLE PCB Design from breadboarding to finished project.
1. How to prototype using a breadboard
A breadboard is a solderless electronic circuit builder - perfect for proving your concept.
2. How to Install and Setup EAGLE
Everything you need to know to get started using EAGLE.
3. How to streamline your EAGLE configuration
EAGLE's thousands of library files can be overwhelming. We have more than 500 curated, proven design files for your use. 1) Grab them in GitHub, 2) drag-and-drop a ULP file into an open EAGLE schematic, or 3) find single product design files on product pages or in GitHub (note for product files: individual board files are in "Hardware" directory and EAGLE panels are in the "Production" directory).
Guide to using ULP file GitHub EAGLE Libraries GitHub Product Files
4. How to use the EAGLE schematic editor
Designing a schematic is the first step in PCB design. A well-designed schematic is critical to the whole process.
5. How to use EAGLE's Board Designer
Laying out a board is the second step in PCB design. Within EAGLE's board layout tool you create a finished PCB design.
6. How to check your design for errors
This step insures that a manufacturer can successfully fabriate your PCB. With SparkFun's design rules files, you can check your design for errors.
7. How to create Gerbers
Use SparkFun's CAM files, to create Gerber files that are accepted by most fab houses.
Popular EAGLE Tutorials
Making Custom Footprints in EAGLE
This tutorial will show you how to make custom, 1:1 footprint for any IC in EAGLE.
How to Install and Setup EAGLE
Not just how to download and install EAGLE, but how to install the SparkFun EAGLE Libraries and scripts.
Using EAGLE: Board Layout
Part 2 of the Using Eagle tutorials, this one covers how to lay out a board after designing a schematic.
PCB Basics
What exactly IS a PCB? This tutorial will breakdown what makes up a PCB and some of the common terms used in the PCB world.
How to Read a Schematic
An overview of component circuit symbols, and tips and tricks for better schematic reading. Click here, and become schematic-literate today!
-------------------- Tech Support Tips/Troubleshooting/Common Issues --------------------
Here's some basic information on PCB Basics [ https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/pcb-basics/overview ] If you have never created a PCB. =)
Archived SparkFun Tutorials on PCBs
Removing Layers in Eagle [ https://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/157 ]
Better PCBs in Eagle [ https://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/115 ]
Additional Design Tips
Offset Header Pin design with Pete [ https://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/114 ]
Designing for SparkFun [ https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-sell-your-widget-on-sparkfun/designing-for-sparkfun-manufuacture ]
PCB Manufacturing Services
To print your PCB try looking at some of these companies that specialize in printing PCBs:
OSH Park OSH Park [ http://batchpcb.oshpark.com/ ]
Advanced Circuits and Eagle [ http://colinkarpfinger.com/blog/2010/ordering-pcbs-designed-with-eagle/ ]