Adding a LOGO to Your PCB Design Using Altium Designer

 

Introduction to PCB Logo Integration

Adding a logo to your Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design is an essential step for brand identity, product authentication, and professional appearance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods of adding logos to your PCB design using Altium Designer, covering everything from file preparation to final implementation.

Prerequisites and Requirements

Software Requirements

Component
Version/Specification
Purpose
Altium Designer
20.0 or later
Main design software
Image editing software
Any vector editor
Logo preparation
Operating System
Windows 10/11
Platform support

File Format Requirements

Format
Use Case
Advantages
DXF
Vector import
High precision, scalable
BMP
Bitmap import
Easy to create, widely supported
SVG
Vector graphics
Excellent scalability
Gerber
Direct import
Industry standard

Logo Preparation Methods

Vector Format Preparation

Converting Image to Vector

1. Initial Image Processing
   • Resolution optimization
   • Color separation
   • Edge detection enhancement
2. Vector Conversion Steps
   • Trace bitmap to vector
   • Simplify paths
   • Clean up anchor points

Bitmap Processing

Resolution
Recommended Use
File Size Impact
300 DPI
Standard logos
Moderate
600 DPI
Detailed logos
Large
1200 DPI
High-precision
Very large

Implementation Methods in Altium

Method 1: Using PCB Library Editor

Creating a Custom Component

1. Launch PCB Library Editor
   • File → New → PCB Library
   • Set up grid spacing
   • Configure design rules
2. Import Process
   • Select import format
   • Set scaling options
   • Define layer mapping

Component Properties

Property
Setting
Description
Layer
Top Overlay
Visual marking
Height
0mm
Surface marking
Designator
Hidden
No reference needed
Comment
Hidden
No comment needed

Method 2: Direct Import to PCB

Import Settings

Parameter
Value
Purpose
Scale
1:1
Maintain size
Origin
(0,0)
Reference point
Rotation
0°
Initial orientation
Layer
User choice
Placement layer

Layer Configuration

1. Layer Selection
   • Top Overlay
   • Top Solder Mask
   • Top Copper
   • Bottom layers (if needed)
2. Material Considerations
   • Copper weight
   • Solder mask options
   • Silkscreen specifications

Method 3: Using Mechanical Layers

Mechanical Layer Setup

Layer Number
Usage
Visibility
Mechanical 1
Documentation
On
Mechanical 13
Logo placement
On
Mechanical 15
Assembly notes
Off

Implementation Steps

1. Layer Activation
   • Enable mechanical layers
   • Set layer properties
   • Define layer pairs
2. Logo Placement
   • Import to mechanical layer
   • Position and scale
   • Lock position

Advanced Techniques

Multi-Layer Logos

Layer Stack Management

Layer Type
Purpose
Considerations
Copper
Conductive logo
Signal integrity
Solder Mask
Exposed copper
Finish quality
Silkscreen
Visual marking
Print resolution

Size Optimization

Board Size
Recommended Logo Size
Placement
< 50mm²
3-5mm
Corner
50-100mm²
5-8mm
Edge
> 100mm²
8-12mm
Center

Quality Control and Verification

Design Rule Checks

Logo-Specific Rules

Rule Type
Parameter
Value
Clearance
Minimum space
0.2mm
Width
Minimum line
0.15mm
Size
Minimum feature
0.1mm

Manufacturing Considerations

Aspect
Requirement
Impact
Copper thickness
≥ 1oz
Durability
Solder mask
No gaps
Protection
Silkscreen
High contrast
Visibility

Best Practices and Tips

Design Guidelines

1. Placement Considerations
   • Keep away from critical components
   • Maintain clearance from edges
   • Consider assembly requirements
2. Size and Scale
   • Maintain aspect ratio
   • Consider minimum feature size
   • Account for manufacturing tolerances

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake
Impact
Solution
Oversized logos
Space waste
Scale appropriately
Poor layer choice
Manufacturing issues
Use recommended layers
Insufficient clearance
Design rule violations
Follow clearance rules

Project Integration

Documentation

Required Information

Document Type
Content
Purpose
Design files
Native format
Edition
Manufacturing files
Gerber data
Production
Assembly drawings
Position reference
Assembly

Version Control

1. File Management
   • Naming conventions
   • Revision tracking
   • Backup procedures
2. Change Documentation
   • Modification history
   • Version comparison
   • Update logging

Manufacturing Output

Gerber File Generation

Export Settings

Setting
Value
Purpose
Format
RS-274X
Industry standard
Units
MM
Metric system
Precision
4:4
High accuracy

Manufacturing Notes

Note Type
Description
Importance
Layer marking
Layer identification
Critical
Special processes
Surface finish
Important
Quality requirements
Inspection criteria
Essential

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best file format for importing logos into Altium Designer?

A: The best file format for importing logos into Altium Designer is DXF or SVG. These vector formats ensure scalability without loss of quality and provide the most precise control over the final appearance on the PCB.

Q2: How do I ensure my logo meets manufacturing requirements?

A: To ensure manufacturing compatibility, follow these key steps:

• Maintain minimum feature sizes (typically 0.15mm)
• Use appropriate layer assignments
• Verify design rule compliance
• Consult with your PCB manufacturer about their specific capabilities

Q3: Can I add logos to both sides of the PCB?

A: Yes, you can add logos to both sides of the PCB. When doing so, ensure you:

• Mirror the logo appropriately for the bottom side
• Use the correct layer assignments for each side
• Consider the manufacturing impact on both sides

Q4: How do I prevent logo-related manufacturing issues?

A: To prevent manufacturing issues:

• Keep logos away from critical components and traces
• Ensure adequate clearance around the logo
• Use appropriate layer assignments
• Verify design rules before submission

Q5: What are the recommended logo sizes for different board sizes?

A: Logo sizes should be proportional to board size while maintaining minimum feature sizes:

• Small boards (<50mm²): 3-5mm
• Medium boards (50-100mm²): 5-8mm
• Large boards (>100mm²): 8-12mm or larger as appropriate

Conclusion

Adding a logo to your PCB design using Altium Designer is a precise process that requires attention to detail and understanding of various technical considerations. By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully integrate professional-looking logos into your PCB designs while maintaining manufacturing compatibility and design integrity.