Ordering the PCBs

The TNY-360 contains 7 custom PCBs, each serving a specific purpose in the robot's electronics architecture.

These PCBs have been designed to save space, simplify assembly, and to ensure a certain level of quality and reliability in the connections between components.


1 - List of PCBs

You can find all design files (Gerber, BOM, PickAndPlace) in the GitHub repository.
Here's the list of all the PCBs you will need for this build:

PCBPurposeQuantityFiles
Main BoardRobot brain and main controller1GitHub PCB Files
Analog ReaderSensor interface board1GitHub PCB Files
Motor DriverMotor control board1GitHub PCB Files
Power BoardPower distribution1GitHub PCB Files
Paw BoardLegs multiplexing and power management2GitHub PCB Files
Plug BoardUniversal Mount interface1GitHub PCB Files
Servo BoardCustom MG996R servo modification board12GitHub PCB Files

To order the PCBs, please follow the PCB Ordering Guide for detailed instructions on how to prepare the files and place your order with a PCB manufacturer.


2 - How to order the PCBs

Regardless of the manufacturer you choose, there's always a standard process to follow when ordering custom PCBs, with a couple of settings to specify to ensure the boards are fabricated correctly.

Here's what you need to know about the PCB ordering process and the recommended settings for the TNY-360 PCBs:

PCB Files Preparation

For each of the 7 PCBs used in the TNY-360, you will find the design files in the GitHub repository.

Each PCB folder contains these files :

  • Gerber Files: These are the standard files required by PCB manufacturers to fabricate the boards. They include all the necessary layers (copper, silkscreen, solder mask, etc.) and drill information.
  • Bill of Materials (BOM): A list of all the components needed for the PCB, including part numbers and recommended suppliers.
  • Pick and Place Files: These files indicate the exact placement of components on the PCB, which can be used for automated assembly if supported by the manufacturer.

These files are standard and common for PCB manufacturing, and you should be able to upload them directly to the manufacturer's website when placing your order.
If not, please contact us so that we can find a solution to ensure you can get the PCBs without any issues.

When placing your order with a PCB manufacturer, ensure you specify the following parameters to match the design requirements of the TNY-360 PCBs:

ParameterRecommended ValueDescription
Layers2Standard two-layer PCB for cost-effectiveness and sufficient functionality.
Board Thickness1.6mmStandard thickness for durability and mechanical stability.
Copper Weight1oz (35µm)Standard copper thickness for reliable electrical performance.
Solder Mask ColorBlack or GreenAesthetic choice. Green is more common and may be cheaper, while black can give a sleek look.
Silkscreen ColorWhiteProvides good contrast for component labels and markings.
Material TypeFR4Standard PCB material for reliability and performance.

Servo board thickness

Please use a thickness of 0.8mm for the Servo Board to ensure it fits properly within the MG996R servo casing.
Using a thicker board may cause fitting issues and could require modifications of the servo shell.

Ordering the stencil

While most components on the PCBs aren't extremely small, we highly recommend ordering a solder paste stencil along with your PCBs if you plan on assembling the boards yourself.

A stencil will make the soldering process much easier and more precise, especially for the main board which has a high density of components and complex connectors.


Well ... Now comes the worst part of any project ... Waiting for everything to arrive!
While you're waiting for the components and PCBs to arrive, why not take a look at how to flash the firmware ?