How to make a layout for a prototype?
When developing microcontroller firmware, you have to debug it on prototypes. The prototype is just a set of debug boards connected by jumpers.
Prototypes are especially relevant when the board of the combat device is still in development (production), and the software already needs to be developed and debugged somehow, then you have to assemble a prototype from a set of debug boards.
The fact is that we are not working here in zero gravity, and if we simply connect the boards with jumper wires, they will suddenly fall off under the action of a tension force.
Therefore, it is necessary to fix the boards hard on one common base and then only connect them with jumpers.
It is also often necessary to install on an expensive premium PCB board protective screenso that when transporting without a box in a backpack, the components on the board are not scratched, for example, with keys. Or it is trivial to protect the board from coffee accidentally spilled on the table.

I was surprised to learn that people have problems with the manufacture of such substrates (screens) for PCB prototypes.
What is the difficulty?
The point is that we need a lot high accuracy drilling holes (hundredths of a millimeter), and the position of the holes relative to each other can be simply random (s) like the position of a cluster of stars in the sky.
Therefore, it follows instruction how to make a quality base for a prototype.
What do you need from the equipment (hardware)?
Equipment | Purpose | category |
plexiglass | To make a backing or shield | consumable |
plastic racks | to bond the board and substrate | consumable |
plastic nuts | to bond the board and substrate | consumable |
plastic bolts | to bond the board and substrate | consumable |
a printer | To print a drawing | tool |
USB Flash(ka) | To download a drawing to the printer | tool |
Kerner | For tapping funnels at the places of future drilling | tool |
A4 paper | To print a drawing with marking of drilling places | consumable |
Calipers | To take dimensions from the board | tool |
Ruler | To check the drawing after printing | tool |
Scotch | to stick the drawing on plexiglass | consumable |
hand drill | for drilling holes | tool |
Drill 2mm | pre-hole drilling | tool |
Svelo 3mm | drill hole | tool |
Drill 5mm | for chamfering | tool |
Flat screwdriver 4mm | To screw the board stands and backing | tool |
Why plexiglass? It transparent. You can always read the silkscreen of the board from the back through the glass and you do not need an endoscope for this.
What do you need from the software?
Program | Purpose |
inkscape | To draw a drawing |
pdf viewer | To view and check a drawing before printing |