Fall 2025 Board Characterization #11

Description:

We still need to finish soldering and test last semester's design to ensure it works, and so we have something to demo for Engineering Expo. Much of this project will be spent in the makerspace, using the soldering equipment and electronic diagnostic tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Responsibilities:

• Finish soldering the PCB
• Program the MCU with code from the Controls Team
• Use electronic diagnostic tools to check for short-circuits and debug issues
• Work with the Modeling and Design Team to put together the final prototype

References:

• A common PCB soldering issue is tiny ICs with lots of pins, like the ESP32 Module or the CP2102 module. Make sure to test for any short circuits using continuity mode on the multimeter before applying power/plugging it in.
• Utilize the test points on the PCB to make sure all voltages are at the correct level.
• You will likely need to help the controls team out with debugging, since you know the hardware and they know the firmware