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Your own PCB (final)

So the lovely 555 based square wave signal generator PCB arrived from JLCPCB. The story so far:

1. Dream up a suitable project to illustrate how easy it is to make a PCB, this one based on the 555 timer which can output a square wave signal of variable frequency
2. Design and test the proposed circuit on a breadboard
3. Use online software to connect all components in the circuit in preparation for ordering and manufacturing
4. Layout PCB design and order the PCB, then wait by the postbox for a couple of weeks

So now the only thing left to do is to assemble and test the PCB. Note that I used the TLC555 version of the 555 timer which is CMOS based and not only uses a lower voltage, but also requires very little current in operation. The TLC555 can also output a much higher frequency than the bog standard NE555 - 2MHz vs 500kHz. There are other versions of the 555 around as well - nice chip!

"Panelized" board from JLCPCB

Most components are SMD, arriving from LCSC

Components gathered and ready to solder

The signal generator ready to fire up