# The Spark Gap - Episode 48

- Show: [The Spark Gap](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap)
- Published: 2016-09-28
- Length: 57m
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48
- Listen: https://thesparkgap.net/the-spark-gap-episode-48

## Summary

Hosts Carl and Corey discuss design choices for schematics and PCB layouts that facilitate easier board bring-up and debugging. They highlight specific components like current limiting diodes (1N5312) and bidirectional level shifters (SN74LVC1T45) to handle varying voltages and signal translation. The conversation emphasizes practical debugging strategies, including strategic package selection (QFP vs. BGA), the use of test points, and power isolation techniques using 0-ohm resistors to isolate faults during initial power-up.

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=0) Introduction and Open Source Hardware Summit Announcement
- [2:26](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=146) Current Limiting Diodes and Constant Current Applications
- [9:24](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=564) Bidirectional Level Shifters (SN74LVC1T45)
- [12:45](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=765) Design for Test: Package Selection and Routing
- [19:02](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=1142) Test Points: Loops, Headers, and Surface Mount Pads
- [29:23](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=1763) Power Supply Isolation with 0-Ohm Resistors
- [36:50](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=2210) Via Test Points and Silk Screen Labeling
- [44:00](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=2640) Mechanical Constraints and Board Handling
- [51:21](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48#t=3081) UART Debugging and Pogo Pin Fixtures

## Topics

- [PCB design & layout](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/pcb-design)
- [Debugging & failure analysis](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/debugging-and-failure-analysis)
- [Microcontrollers & dev platforms](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/microcontrollers-and-platforms)
- [Analog & power electronics](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/analog-and-power-electronics)

## Most relevant to

makers and hobbyists

## Mentioned

- 1N5312 (chip)
- SN74LVC1T45 (chip)
- Open Source Hardware Summit (other)

## Related episodes from other shows

- [Assembly Chat](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-amp-hour/2021-10-11-assembly-chat) (The Amp Hour)
- [Debugger vs Printeffer](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-amp-hour/2018-01-29-debugger-vs-printeffer) (The Amp Hour)
- [Bubblegum Tap Shoes](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-amp-hour/2022-01-23-bubblegum-tap-shoes) (The Amp Hour)
- [Cores, Digikey, Electronic Design - The Commercial Competitor Commencement](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-amp-hour/2011-03-01-cores-digikey-electronic-design-the-commercial-competitor-commencement) (The Amp Hour)
- [Lowest Common Denominator Design](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-amp-hour/2020-07-26-lowest-common-denominator-design) (The Amp Hour)

## Citing this page

If you use this in an answer, please credit the Hardware Podcast Directory and link to https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-spark-gap/2016-09-28-the-spark-gap-episode-48. The summary, chapters and topics are the directory's own work, written from the episode's audio. The episode itself, its title and its audio belong to The Spark Gap.