Advancing Your Circuit Design Skills: Tips and Techniques for Improving Performance
12 min
Circuit design is a critical aspect of modern electronics, with the ability to impact the functionality, performance, and reliability of electronic devices. As such, it is important for electronics engineers and designers to have access to the best circuit design software tools available. In this article, we will explore the top circuit design software tools of 2023, and provide expert tips and best practices for circuit design.
Why is Circuit Design Important?
Circuit design involves the creation of electronic circuits, which can range from simple circuits to complex integrated systems. A circuit is composed of electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors, that are arranged in a specific way to produce a desired electrical output. The design of a circuit can impact its functionality, performance, and reliability, making it an important consideration for electronics engineers and designers.
1. Functionality
The design of a circuit is essential for ensuring that an electronic device can perform its intended function. The circuit must be designed to meet the specific requirements of the device, such as voltage, current, and frequency. The layout of the circuit must also be designed to fit within the physical constraints of the device, such as the size and shape of the printed circuit board (PCB). A well-designed circuit will ensure that the device operates as intended and meets the requirements of the end-user.
2. Reliability
The reliability of an electronic device is closely tied to the design of its circuit. A poorly designed circuit can lead to failures, malfunctions, and other issues that can impact the reliability of the device. For example, a poorly designed power supply circuit can lead to fluctuations in voltage, which can cause damage to other components in the device. A well-designed circuit, on the other hand, can help to ensure the reliability of the device and reduce the likelihood of failures and malfunctions.
3. Performance
The performance of an electronic device is directly related to the design of its circuit. A well-designed circuit can ensure that the device operates at its optimal level, with minimal power consumption and maximum efficiency. The circuit must be designed to minimize noise and interference, which can impact the performance of the device. A well-designed circuit can also ensure that the device operates within its specified tolerances, such as temperature and humidity.
4. Cost
The design of a circuit can impact the cost of an electronic device. A poorly designed circuit can lead to increased production costs, as more time and resources are required to manufacture and test the device. A well-designed circuit, on the other hand, can reduce production costs and improve the overall efficiency of the manufacturing process.
5. Innovation
The design of a circuit is essential for driving innovation in modern electronics. As new technologies and materials become available, circuit designers must adapt to ensure that their circuits can take advantage of these advancements. A well-designed circuit can help to push the boundaries of what is possible in electronic devices, leading to new and innovative products that can benefit consumers and businesses alike.
How to Design a Circuit Board?
Circuit design is a critical part of modern electronics technology. A well-designed circuit can ensure that an electronic device operates as intended, meets the needs of end-users, and drives innovation in the industry. To achieve optimal circuit design, it is important to follow best practices that are based on years of experience and industry standards.
Design for Signal Integrity
Signal integrity is the ability of a circuit to transmit and receive signals without distortion or interference. Designing for signal integrity requires careful consideration of the circuit layout, component placement, and routing techniques. High-speed digital signals and analog signals are particularly susceptible to signal integrity issues, and designers must take steps to minimize noise, crosstalk, and other sources of interference.
Select Appropriate Components and Packages
The selection of appropriate components and packages is critical for achieving optimal circuit design. Components must be selected based on their specifications, such as voltage, current, and frequency, and their compatibility with other components in the circuit. The package type and size must also be selected to fit within the physical constraints of the PCB and the device.
Optimize PCB Layout and Routing Techniques
The layout and routing of a PCB can impact the performance, reliability, and cost of an electronic device. Optimal PCB layout and routing techniques include minimizing trace lengths, reducing the number of vias, using the right trace widths and spacing, and avoiding sharp corners and acute angles. The layout and routing must also take into account the thermal management of the device and the need for EMI shielding.
JLCPCB-Specific Layout Best Practices (2026 Capabilities)
To ensure manufacturability and low cost:
- Minimum trace width/spacing: 0.10 mm (4 mil) for 1 oz copper (standard)
- Avoid acute angles (<90°); use 45° bends or rounded corners
- Place decoupling capacitors (0.1 µF recommended) close (<5 mm) to IC power pins
- Use ground/power planes on inner layers for multilayer boards to reduce EMI
- Keep high-speed traces short and differential pairs tightly coupled
Always run JLCPCB's built-in DRC in EasyEDA or upload Gerbers to their online viewer for instant feedback.
Simulation and Testing of Circuit Designs
Simulation and testing of circuit designs can help to ensure that the circuit operates as intended and meets the requirements of the end-user. Simulation tools, such as SPICE simulation, can be used to model the behavior of the circuit and identify potential issues. Testing tools, such as oscilloscopes and multimeters, can be used to verify the performance of the circuit and identify any issues that may have been missed during the design process.
Expert Tips for Circuit Design
Circuit design is a complex and critical part of modern electronics technology. To achieve optimal circuit design, it is important to follow best practices and utilize advanced design tools and techniques. In addition, there are expert tips and tricks that can help to improve the design process and ensure that the circuit operates as intended.
1. Consider Thermal Management
Thermal management is the process of managing the heat generated by electronic devices and ensuring that the device operates within its specified temperature range. Designers must consider the thermal management of the device during the circuit design process, including the placement of components, the use of thermal vias, and the use of heat sinks and fans. Failure to consider thermal management can lead to device failures and reduced reliability.
2. Utilize Ground Planes and Power Planes
Ground planes and power planes are large areas of copper on a PCB that are used to provide a low-impedance ground or power connection. Utilizing ground planes and power planes can help to reduce the number of traces on the PCB and improve the overall performance of the circuit. Ground planes can also help to reduce noise and interference, while power planes can help to provide stable power to components.
3. Minimize the Number of Layers on the PCB
The number of layers on a PCB can impact the cost, complexity, and reliability of the device. Minimizing the number of layers on the PCB can help to reduce the cost and complexity of the device and improve its reliability. Designers should carefully consider the requirements of the device and minimize the number of layers while still meeting the needs of the end-user.
4. Use Decoupling Capacitors
Decoupling capacitors are used to filter out high-frequency noise and provide stable power to components. Designers should use decoupling capacitors on all power and ground pins of components to ensure stable operation and reduce noise and interference. The value and placement of decoupling capacitors should be carefully considered during the circuit design process.
5. Optimize the Placement of Components
The placement of components on a PCB can impact the performance, reliability, and cost of the device. Components should be placed in a way that minimizes trace lengths, reduces crosstalk and interference, and allows for optimal thermal management. Designers should also consider the accessibility of components for testing and debugging purposes.
Best Circuit Design Software of 2026
In 2026, circuit design tools continue to evolve with cloud integration, AI-assisted routing, and seamless manufacturing links. JLCPCB strongly recommends EasyEDA (its official partner tool) for most users due to direct integration with LCSC component library and one-click PCB/PCBA ordering. Here are five popular options:
- EasyEDA (JLCPCB Official)
- Altium Designer
- KiCad
- CircuitMaker
EasyEDA
EasyEDA is a free web-based circuit design software tool that offers easy-to-use schematic capture and layout design capabilities. With over 5 million registered users, EasyEDA is a popular choice for electronics designers, hobbyists, and students. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it an ideal tool for creating electronic circuit designs quickly and efficiently.
EasyEDA offers a vast library of components and symbols, including over 2 million schematic symbols, PCB footprints, and 3D models of components. The software also provides simulation and testing features, including SPICE simulation, mixed-mode simulation, and cloud simulation. These features enable electronics designers to test their circuit designs and ensure they meet the desired specifications.
EasyEDA also offers collaboration and sharing options, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. The software supports real-time collaboration, version control, and comment functions, making it easy for electronics designers to work together and share their designs.
In 2026, EasyEDA (especially the Pro edition) has become the official recommended tool by JLCPCB due to its seamless integration with the JLCPCB ecosystem. Key enhancements include:
- Real-time access to over 2 million LCSC components with live pricing, stock availability, and direct part links during schematic design
- Built-in JLCPCB DFM (Design for Manufacturability) rules checker that flags issues like minimum trace width (0.10 mm for standard 1 oz copper), clearance violations, and solder mask/pad overlaps before ordering
- One-click ordering to JLCPCB for PCB fabrication and full PCBA (SMT assembly) — designs sync directly to the JLCPCB cart with instant quote and BOM matching
- Advanced Pro features: WebGL-based rendering for smooth handling of large boards (up to 50,000+ components), improved autorouter, 3D STEP export, and cloud-based version history with unlimited storage
- Free for most users; Pro edition offers a generous free trial and affordable subscription for professional workflows
This tight integration makes EasyEDA particularly ideal for rapid prototyping, small-to-medium production runs, and anyone using JLCPCB services, significantly reducing design-to-manufacturing turnaround time.
Altium Designer
Altium Designer is a professional-grade circuit design software tool that offers advanced features and capabilities for electronics designers. It provides an extensive library of components and symbols. Altium Designer offers schematic capture and layout design capabilities, as well as simulation and testing features, including signal integrity analysis and thermal analysis.
Eagle PCB Design
Eagle PCB Design is a popular circuit design software tool that offers an easy-to-use interface and a vast library of components and symbols. It provides schematic capture and layout design capabilities, as well as simulation and testing features, including SPICE simulation and signal integrity analysis.
KiCAD
KiCAD is an open-source circuit design software tool that offers schematic capture and layout design capabilities. It provides a library of components and symbols, as well as simulation and testing features, including SPICE simulation and signal integrity analysis.
CircuitMaker
CircuitMaker is a free circuit design software tool that offers an easy-to-use interface and a library of components and symbols. It provides schematic capture and layout design capabilities, as well as simulation and testing features, including SPICE simulation and signal integrity analysis.
Quick Comparison Table (2026 Perspective)
| Software | Price | Key Strength for JLCPCB Users | Best For |
| EasyEDA | Free (Pro free trial) | Direct LCSC/JLCPCB integration, one-click order | Prototypes, beginners, fast PCBA |
| Altium Designer | Paid (~$10k+/year) | Advanced SI/PI analysis, enterprise features | Professional, complex designs |
| KiCad | Free/Open-source | Powerful, community plugins for JLCPCB | Open-source enthusiasts |
| CircuitMaker | Free | Altium-like interface, community sharing | Hobbyists transitioning from Altium |
Conclusion：
Mastering circuit design is essential for electronics professionals who want to create high-performance, reliable, and innovative electronic devices. To achieve optimal circuit design, it is important to follow best practices, utilize advanced design tools and techniques, and incorporate expert tips from experienced professionals. In addition, selecting the right circuit design software can greatly simplify and streamline the design process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is circuit design so important?
It directly affects functionality, reliability, performance, cost, and innovation of electronic devices by ensuring proper operation, minimal failures, efficiency, and manufacturability.
2. What are the key best practices for circuit design?
Focus on signal integrity, proper component selection, optimized PCB layout/routing, thermal management, ground/power planes, decoupling capacitors, and simulation/testing.
3. Which circuit design software is best for JLCPCB users in 2026?
EasyEDA (JLCPCB official) is the top choice—free, cloud-based, integrated with LCSC components, real-time pricing/stock, built-in DFM checker, and one-click PCB/PCBA ordering.
4. How can I improve thermal management in my circuit design?
Place heat-generating components strategically, use thermal vias, add heatsinks/fans, utilize copper pours or power planes for heat dissipation, and simulate temperature rise.
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