Four printed circuit boards are used. On this page, you can download and view .pdf versions of these PCB’s.

PCB design files

The layouts are generated using (the cheap but oh so friendly, my favorite) SPrint Layout 6.0 of Abacom. Sprint Layout 6.0, ELECTRONIC-SOFTWARE-SHOP

The four design files are shortly discussed here (click for .pdf versions):

Controller board

The controller board carries the Arduino Pro Micro, the RFID reader IC, the rack switches and connectors to the racks and the board antenna array.

Board antenna array

Placed underneath the playing surface of the board, this PCB forms the row and column antennas, and contains the 30 antenna switches. The board is used with components at the down side, to allow a flat playing surface.

Cable to antenna adapter board

The cable to antenna adapter board is designed and added after that the antenna board was already manufactured. This adapter board allows a Molex type smd connector cable to be used, which is more comfortable than the initial soldered connection. The adapter board also has a placeholder for an electronic compass, which can be used to detect the rotation action of the board.

Rack antenna

The racks contain a single antenna. The antenna is connected to the controller board using a shielded cable and a 2.5 mm jack plug.