Final touches

Fixed the errors that showed up when I ran the DRC, mostly clearance issues and a couple of missing ground connections. After that, I added a little hornet to the silkscreen (I named this project shaw because it was the first thing that came to mind when I started, as I was playing multiple hours of Silksong every day) and my username. Finally, I touched up the README a bit to be able to ship the project.

Here's the (hopefully) final PCB layout

And the 3D model

PCB work

While working on and off due to other stuff, I added all remaining components to the PCB and routed them. I expanded the PCB a bit to make way for the GPIO tracks, as the components for the battery take up quite a bit of space. Even with the extra space, it was a bit hard to route GPIOs (and everything else to the RP2040 really). Next up, I'll make sure to fix any mistakes, and clean up the silkscreen.

Started work on the PCB

With the schematics done, I started reading the guide's section on the PCB. As such, I started by adding the footprints for each component. As I entered the PCB editor, I noticed there were a few minor errors in the schematic, which I fixed. Afterwards, I placed the header pins, RP2040, USB receptacle, crystal oscillator and decoupling capacitors following the guide. Also began routing the PCB, though I'm still missing most of it. Planning on finding a spot for the battery charger and finishing the PCB soon so I can start working on the other projects I have in mind.

Added battery charging

I added support for battery charging with a Texas Instrument BQ24074 chip to make the devboard more versatile. Also rearranged the schematic to add space for said battery charger without having to expand the schematic and added a nice title. Will take a silksong break and afterwards start making the PCB.

Made schematic

Started by following the guide; added capacitors to power lines, USB-C and its voltage regulator, crystal oscillator, flash memory and I/O headers. Also researched a bit about decoupling capacitors and piezoelectricity (very cool). Planning to maybe add support for a battery and start making the PCB tomorrow.