Start a New Project and Create a Schematic Document
- Open Altium Designer and create a new project by clicking on 'File' > 'New' > 'Project'. Choose 'PCB Project' as the type.
- Add a schematic document to your project from the same menu by selecting 'File' > 'New' > 'Schematic'. Save the schematic document using a meaningful name.
Add and Configure Libraries
- Navigate to 'Components' > 'Add Library' to integrate necessary component libraries or use 'Manufacturer Part Search' for online components.
- Configure your library paths so Altium can find the components easily. Go to 'Tools' > 'Preferences' > 'Data Management' > 'Component Links' and verify your settings.
Place Components in the Schematic
- From the 'Components Panel', drag and drop components onto your schematic sheet. Use 'Place' > 'Part' (or pressing the 'P' key) for a quick search and positioning.
- Align and rotate components as necessary using the space bar for rotation and 'Ctrl + M' to specify the exact placement.
Wire Connections and Electrical Nets
- Use the wiring tool by clicking 'Place' > 'Wire' or pressing 'Ctrl + W'. Click on a component pin and drag the wire to another pin you want to connect.
- To designate connections as the same electrical net, you can use 'Place' > 'Net Label' from the toolbar and assign net names by clicking on wires.
Define and Edit Schematic Sheets
- If your design requires hierarchical blocks, insert additional sheets by clicking 'Design' > 'Create Sheet Symbol from Sheet', then name and link them appropriately.
- Edit properties of each sheet by double-clicking their borders to define parameters such as name, description, etc.
Annotate and Validate Design
- Perform automatic annotation of your parts to ensure each component has a unique designator by navigating to 'Tools' > 'Annotate Schematics Quietly'.
- Run an Electrical Rule Check (ERC) under 'Tools' > 'Electrical Rules Check' to validate connections against predefined rules.
Simulate Design and Generate Reports
- Attach simulation models to components when required by double-clicking on the component, navigating to the 'Model' tab, and linking appropriate models.
- Generate necessary schematic reports, such as Bill of Materials (BOM) or Netlist, via 'Reports' > 'Bill of Materials' or 'Netlist', configuring the options as needed.
Schematics Multifile Management
- For designs with multiple schematic sheets, ensure synchronization by using 'Design' > 'Update from Library'. This key functionality ensures all parts are up to date.
- Manage inter-sheet references carefully by using 'Place' > 'Off Sheet Connector' to maintain logical connections across sheets.
Integrate with PCB Layout and Synchronize
- Finalize your schematic design by creating a PCB from it. Use 'Design' > 'Import Changes to PCB' to transition between the schematic and PCB workspace seamlessly.
- Regularly update and synchronize between schematic and PCB layout through 'Design' > 'Update PCB Document [Project Name]' to ensure board design fidelity.
Save and Version Control
- Utilize built-in Altium Designer version control through the 'Projects' panel, integrating with external systems like SVN or Git for accurate tracking and version history.
- Back up all project files regularly and use internal comment features on design changes for effective collaboration.
