Electronics Engineer how-to

How to Debug a Prototype Circuit Board

Debugging finds design and build errors.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Debugging finds design and build errors. In short: inspect; check; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Inspect visually.

  2. Check power rails.

  3. Check clocks.

  4. Probe key signals.

  5. Compare to schematic.

  6. Fix and retest.

Safety reminders for electronics engineers

  • Follow electrical safety
  • Use ESD protection
  • Follow export rules
  • Protect classified data

ABET · PE license · FE exam · CAD · Specification · Schematic: see the full electronics engineer glossary.

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