First, what is debugging, and why is it important?
This is not nonsense. As a beginner, it might not be easy to face a familiar or unfamiliar board. What exactly is debugging? In simple terms, all the functions of our design are implemented on the PCB board. However, the purpose of debugging goes beyond that. Debugging must be able to verify past work and inspire future improvements. The above may sound like nonsense, but it's actually quite meaningful.
Second, most problems have common solutions
As a new engineer entering the industry, I've accumulated some so-called experience over the years. But when you think about it, there are still many standard procedures to solve problems.
The core of the board - power supply:
The first step in board debugging is checking the power supply. If the power supply works properly, the design is already more than 70% successful. Here are a few key points during power debugging:
(1) Before powering on, check for any short circuits in the main circuits or auxiliary power supplies to prevent damage.
(2) It's best to install indicator lights for each power source. If an indicator light turns on during power-up, turn off the power immediately and investigate.
(3) Measure the voltage of each power channel and feel the temperature of the power supply unit.
Common causes of failure:
(1) Design errors: After receiving the board, you may find a mistake in the schematic.
(2) Component errors: including wrong placement or labeling. This is very common.
(3) Design flaws: improper use of components can lead to issues. At this point, carefully review the schematic and datasheet.
(4) Manufacturing defects: mislabeled parts, soldering issues, leakage, poor connections, reversed components... Don't panic!
Some common routines:
(1) Visual inspection: Many manufacturing and design issues can be found this way. Be careful!
(2) Swap and replace: The most common method—replace the component.
(3) Step-by-step troubleshooting: Check along the signal path. Many issues occur in power-driven devices.
(4) Power characteristics are critical. Poor power design can cause long-term operational problems. Therefore, during debugging, pay special attention to whether the power design of each power supply on the board is properly implemented.
Once the power supply is stable, proceed with programming and debug each module step by step. The specific steps are similar to the ones mentioned above, and most problems will be resolved.
Third, some problems require thinking outside the box
After designing and debugging several boards, I truly realized the differences between theory and practice. For some tricky issues, even following the usual methods doesn’t help. At such times, it's important to open your mind, make bold hypotheses, and carefully verify them. For example:
1. Sudden voltage fluctuations. I thought there was a problem, checked multiple times, and finally found out the power supply was incorrectly set. Not funny at all.
2. High noise in sensor signal acquisition. No clear direction, replaced op-amps, resistors, capacitors, or added shielding—problem solved.
3. Especially with weak or high-speed signals, differences in wiring, placement, or shielding can lead to big variations in performance. It’s often a matter of trial and error.
4. Communication anomalies related to EMC/EMI are often caused by improper power or ground handling, or insufficient shielding.
5. Power and ground are the most challenging issues! This is especially true, and I’ve experienced it firsthand. Most of the problems I faced were related to these two aspects. I once dealt with a small signal acquisition issue where the noise was unpredictable. When the time was right, it seemed impossible to solve. Later, switching to a different power supply fixed the issue. Another time, signal drift occurred, and after touching the board, I noticed a change. It turned out to be a power-related issue, possibly due to temperature effects.
Fourth, practical experience and knowledge go hand in hand
In reality, all the problem-solving techniques and routines mentioned above boil down to two things: solid foundational knowledge and as much hands-on experience as possible. This may sound cliché, but it's something I truly believe in. Now I enjoy reading and studying because I constantly see the value of theoretical knowledge in real-world applications. Most so-called "unique" solutions come from expanding one's knowledge base.
So, if you're doing engineering work, stay sincere and committed. That's the best approach!
12kw hybrid inverter,gootu solar hybrid inverter,gootu parallel solar hybrid inverter,hybrid solar inverter 10kw,hybrid solar inverter 5kw,48v hybrid solar inverter,mppt solar hybrid inverter,hybrid solar inverter 11kw,48v hybrid solar inverter,hybrid inv
Shenzhen Jiesaiyuan Electricity Co., Ltd. , https://www.gootuenergy.com