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# FastForm Capacitive Sensor Electrode — PCB Design & Order Brief --- ## Overview I need a **very simple 2-layer PCB** designed and manufactured. Two variants, 5 boards each. **This board has no components, no traces, no schematic, and no routing.** It is four copper rectangles and three vias. Someone competent with KiCad should complete the layout in under an hour. **Important context so the design decisions make sense:** this is not a normal circuit board. It is a **capacitive sensor electrode** that will be immersed in wet concrete. The **solder mask is a functional dielectric layer**, not a cosmetic finish. Several instructions below will look unusual for a PCB — please follow them exactly rather than applying normal PCB conventions. --- ## Deliverables 1. **KiCad 7 or 8 source files** (I need these for future revisions) 2. **Gerber files** (RS-274X) and **Excellon drill files** 3. **Order placed on my behalf** with JLCPCB (or PCBWay if cheaper), shipped to me 4. **Order confirmation + tracking number** 5. **One question answered by the fab** — see "Question for the fab" below --- ## Board specification — common to both variants | Parameter | Value | |---|---| | Outline | **100 × 100 mm** square | | Layers | **2** | | Substrate | FR4, **1.6 mm** | | Copper | **1 oz (35 µm)**, both sides | | Impedance control | **No** | | Controlled dielectric | **No** | | Castellations / edge plating | **No** | --- ## VARIANT 1 — `FF-CAP-100` (guarded) ### Front copper — [login to view URL] Two **electrically isolated** filled zones, both centred on the board: | Zone | Geometry | |---|---| | **ACTIVE PLATE** | Filled square, **80 × 80 mm**, centred | | **GUARD RING** | Filled square, outer **94 × 94 mm**, with an **82 × 82 mm** cutout — producing a **uniform 1.0 mm gap** between plate and ring on all four sides | Result: a solid 80 mm plate, a 1 mm bare-FR4 gap all around it, then a 6 mm-wide guard ring, then 3 mm of bare FR4 to the board edge. ### ⚠ CRITICAL — solder mask on the front face > **Both front zones must be FULLY COVERED BY SOLDER MASK.** > **There must be NO mask apertures and NO exposed copper anywhere on the front face.** > > The solder mask is the sensor's dielectric layer. If any copper is exposed on the front, the board is **unusable** — it will short directly into the wet concrete. This is the single most important instruction in this brief. Normal PCB practice would expose copper somewhere; here, do not. ### Back copper — [login to view URL] - **GROUND PLANE** — filled zone, **94 × 94 mm**, centred - Solder-mask covered **except** at the three pads below ### Connections — back side, one corner Three solder pads, **2.5 mm diameter**, mask-opened, **5 mm apart**, silkscreen-labelled: | Pad | Net | Connection | |---|---|---| | **ACT** | Active | Via to the front ACTIVE plate. **⚠ Place this via at the geometric CENTRE of the 80 × 80 mm plate**, not at its edge. | | **GRD** | Guard | Via to the front GUARD ring. Via position anywhere convenient within the ring. | | **SHD** | Shield | Connects to the back GROUND PLANE. | **All three nets must be electrically isolated from one another.** No connection between plate, guard, and ground plane anywhere on the board. ### Silkscreen - Back side: board name **`FF-CAP-100`** - Back side: the three pad labels **ACT**, **GRD**, **SHD** - Front side: **nothing** (keep the sensing face clean) --- ## VARIANT 2 — `FF-CAP-100-NG` (unguarded control) **Identical to Variant 1 in every respect, except the guard ring is omitted.** - Front: **ACTIVE PLATE only** (80 × 80 mm, centred, solder-mask covered) - No guard ring, no GRD pad (or leave the pad present but unconnected — your choice, just tell me which) - Back: ground plane and ACT / SHD pads as before - Silkscreen name: **`FF-CAP-100-NG`** *This is a deliberate experimental control. It exists so the guard ring's effect can be measured rather than assumed. Please do not "helpfully" add the guard back in.* --- ## Manufacturing order Please order from **JLCPCB** (or PCBWay if cheaper) using **exactly** these options: | Option | Setting | |---|---| | Quantity | **5 of each variant** (10 boards total) | | Layers | 2 | | Dimensions | 100 × 100 mm | | PCB thickness | **1.6 mm** | | Copper weight | **1 oz** | | Surface finish | **HASL, lead-free** | | Solder mask colour | **Green** | | Silkscreen | White | | **Conformal coating** | **NO — leave uncoated** | | Panelisation | None | | Gold fingers / impedance control | No | **Please confirm total cost with me before placing the order.** Expect roughly **US$30–60** for both variants including shipping to Australia. --- ## Question for the fab — please ask and report back > **"What is the nominal solder mask thickness, in microns?"** I need this number. This board uses the solder mask as a functional dielectric, and its thickness directly determines the sensor's coupling capacitance. Any value between **15–40 µm** is acceptable — I simply need to know which. If the fab won't provide it, that's not fatal; just tell me they declined. --- ## Summary of the unusual requirements Because these will look wrong to an experienced PCB designer, here they are in one place: 1. **No exposed copper on the front face.** Solder mask over everything. Yes, really. 2. **The ACT via goes in the centre of the plate**, not at the edge. 3. **Three isolated nets**, no ground stitching between them. 4. **Variant 2 deliberately omits the guard ring.** This is intentional. 5. **No conformal coating.** (I know it's a wet application — I want the first run uncoated as a calculable baseline.) 6. **No front silkscreen.** If anything here seems like a mistake, please ask me before "correcting" it.
Project ID: 40582659
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32 freelancers are bidding on average $137 USD for this job

Hi I am an embedded systems engineer with over 16 years of experience in PCB design, sensor electrodes, and production-ready hardware documentation. I understand this is an electrode, not a normal circuit board, so I will follow the unusual solder mask and isolation requirements exactly. I can prepare both KiCad 7/8 variants: FF-CAP-100 with the guarded active plate and FF-CAP-100-NG as the unguarded control. I will ensure there is no exposed copper on the front face, the ACT via is at the plate centre, ACT/GRD/SHD remain isolated, the back pads and labels are correct, and the front side stays clean with no silkscreen. I will generate the KiCad source, Gerber RS-274X and Excellon drill files, check the mask layers carefully, then get the JLCPCB/PCBWay quote and confirm the total cost with you before placing the order. I will also ask the fab for the nominal solder mask thickness in microns and report their answer. One small point to confirm: for the NG variant, do you prefer the GRD pad omitted or left present but unconnected? Please contact me to discuss details.
$120 USD in 3 days
7.6
7.6

Hello, Your project requires precision rather than complexity—the key is correctly implementing the capacitive sensing geometry, maintaining complete electrical isolation, and ensuring the front copper remains fully solder-mask covered to function as the dielectric layer. With 12+ years of experience in KiCad, PCB design, and sensor hardware, I can deliver both PCB variants exactly to your specification without introducing unnecessary design changes. I will provide KiCad 7/8 source files, Gerbers, Excellon drills, BOM, and fabrication-ready outputs, verify all DRC/ERC checks, place the manufacturing order with JLCPCB/PCBWay after your approval, obtain the solder mask thickness information from the manufacturer, and provide order confirmation and tracking. I pay close attention to custom manufacturing requirements and will follow your brief precisely. Regards, Engr. Muhammad Usman PCB Pro Expert
$140 USD in 7 days
6.8
6.8

Hi there, I read your offer carefully and understand that this is a capacitive sensor electrode PCB, not a conventional circuit board. I will follow the unusual requirements exactly, including fully solder-mask-covered front copper, the centered ACT via, electrically isolated plate/guard/shield nets, no front silkscreen, no conformal coating, and the intentional removal of the guard ring in Variant 2. I can create both KiCad 7/8 projects, generate validated Gerber and Excellon files, and prepare the manufacturing order for JLCPCB or PCBWay. I can also confirm the total cost before ordering and request the nominal solder-mask thickness from the manufacturer. Just send me a message and we can get started. Best regards, Samuel Tshibangu
$140 USD in 7 days
6.4
6.4

As an experienced engineer and designer, I can confidently say that I am the perfect fit for this project. I have extensive knowledge in [insert key skills relevant: CAD/CAM, Circuit Design, Electronics, PCB Layout] which align perfectly with your project requirements for designing the Capacitive Electrode. Over the years, I have not only honed my skills in engineering and architectural design but also in various software applications such as KiCAD that you require for this project. Some of my notable previous works include designing complex architectural structures that required meticulous attention to detail. This unique passion and precision is exactly what your project needs, especially considering the unusual design requirements involving the solder mask, sensing face, and controlling dielectric. Despite their non-conventional nature, I am fully equipped to handle them effectively without compromising functionality or quality of your capacitive sensors. Additionally, my seamless synergy with JLCPCB or PCBWay ensures a smooth ordering process on your behalf while assuring timely delivery of all necessary files and materials. Having worked on similar experimental controls in the past, I understand the significance of adhering to instructions and will diligently apply myself to meet your demands accurately. By choosing me for this project, you're opting for reliability, expertise
$120 USD in 2 days
6.5
6.5

Hi, Hope you are well. It sounds like a great job and aligns with where I'd like to take my career. I'm eager to learn more. I have experience over the past fifteen years as a PCB Design Engineer at Global Engineering services and RWR Private Ltd. You can visit my freelancer profile page; https://www.freelancer.com/u/ahsanfreelancer7 I’ve been consistently committed to Specific goals, skills or traits the new job entails. Could we schedule some time to discuss about opportunity in more detail? I’d welcome the opportunity to learn more about the role and share how my skills and experiences would benefit you. I’m available to talk at any time. I look forward to speaking with you. Best, AHSAN ULLAH
$250 USD in 1 day
6.4
6.4

With over 10 years of experience in various design and development roles, including technical documentation, PCB design, and manufacturing oversight, I am the ideal freelancer to handle your FastForm Capacitive Sensor Electrode project. I am well-versed in KiCad, have the ability to create highly precise designs and deliver it on time. My extensive industry knowledge and hands-on experience with similar projects make me cognizant about the peculiarities of working with a sensor that will be immersed in wet concrete like yours. One of the most critical aspects of your project is ensuring that there is no exposed copper on the front face of the board. This is something I completely understand and will maintain utmost attention to detail on. I've used solder masks as dielectric layers before and comprehend their functional essence rather than it being a cosmetic component. Rest assured, your boards will not have any extremities left uncovered when you hand them over to me for manufacturing. Furthermore, my previously successful collaborations with JLCPCB (and occasionally PCBWay) genuinely demystify the logistics you've mentioned. Given my domain-specific knowledge, meticulousness, proficiency in KiCad and commitment to quality, let's work together to produce solid outcome for your Capacitive Electrode project!
$80 USD in 1 day
6.4
6.4

Hello Client. I can help you making the gerber for exact the requirement board shape and copper dimension. I also can help you place order on JLCpcb or PCBways. Pls kindly chat with me if you interested. Many thanks for your time. Best regards,
$140 USD in 7 days
6.2
6.2

Hi, Your project is exactly the type of PCB work I enjoy—clear requirements, well-defined deliverables, and a focus on precision rather than unnecessary complexity. I have extensive experience with KiCad 7/8, custom PCB layouts, Gerber generation, and preparing boards for JLCPCB and PCBWay manufacturing. I understand that this is a capacitive sensing electrode rather than a conventional PCB, so I will follow your specifications exactly, including full solder-mask coverage on the sensing surface, electrically isolated copper zones, center-fed active electrode via placement, and the intentional omission of the guard ring on the control variant. I will not make any "standard PCB" modifications without your approval. Deliverables will include complete KiCad source files, verified Gerber and Excellon files, manufacturing-ready outputs, and clear documentation of both variants. I can also prepare the JLCPCB order, confirm pricing with you before submission, and obtain the requested solder-mask thickness information from the fabrication house. Throughout the project, I'll maintain clear communication, provide design screenshots for review before final release, and ensure the files pass fabrication checks without issues. I look forward to helping you complete this project accurately and efficiently. Regards.
$140 USD in 1 day
5.8
5.8

Hi. Solder mask thickness 15 micron over copper and 30 micron between copper traces at jlc. I have a question, the via on active pad will leave a hole at ground pad on bottom. Is that intentional? PCB cost at jlc for both boards will be 7$ without shipping and taxes. Rest is simple. Thanks
$50 USD in 1 day
5.6
5.6

Hi, how are you doing? I went through your project description and I can help you in your project. your project requirements perfectly match my expertise. We are a team of Electrical and Electronics engineers, we have successfully completed 1000+ Projects for multiple regular clients from OMAN, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Lebanon and many other countries. We are providing our services in following areas: Antenna Design (CST, HFSS) Embedded C Programming. VHDL/Verilog, Quartus/Vivado, LabVIEW/ Multisim/PSPICE/VLSI MATLAB/SIMULINK Network Simulator NS2/NS3 Microcontroller like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, FPGA, AVR, PIC, STM32 and ESP32. IDEs like Keil MDK V5, ATmel studio and MPLab XC8. PLCs / SCADA PCB Designing Proteus, Eagle, KiCAD and Altium IOT Technologies like Ethernet, GSM GPRS. HTTP Restful APIs connection for IOT Communications. Also, we have good command over report writing, I can show you many samples of our previous reports. Kindly consider us for your project and text me so that we can further discuss specifically about your project's main goals and requirements.
$140 USD in 7 days
6.0
6.0

Hi, I am a Senior PCB Design Engineer with 10+ years of experience in mixed-signal, sensor, and industrial PCB development, having completed 200+ PCB layouts including capacitive sensors, IoT devices, and production-ready 2-8 layer boards using KiCad and Altium. I understand this is a functional electrode PCB where solder mask thickness, copper isolation, and dielectric behavior are critical, and I will strictly follow the specified geometry without applying standard exposed-copper PCB practices. Approach: ✅ I will create the KiCad 7/8 project with two independent 100×100mm PCB variants, defining precise copper zones, isolated nets, central ACT via placement, and required backside pads/silkscreen. ✅ I will verify front solder mask coverage, electrical isolation between ACTIVE, GUARD, and SHIELD nets, and generate manufacturing-ready Gerber and Excellon files. ✅ I will prepare the JLCPCB/PCBWay order configuration, confirm fabrication parameters including solder mask thickness availability, and provide order tracking details after approval. Questions: ✅ Can you confirm whether the active electrode should use the standard JLCPCB solder mask thickness value or if a specific dielectric thickness target is preferred for capacitance calibration? ✅ For Variant 2, I will leave the GRD pad omitted unless you prefer keeping an unconnected test pad for future measurements — please confirm your preference. Best, Yaroslav
$140 USD in 7 days
5.2
5.2

Hello, I am an Electrical/Electronics Engineer with 15+ years of experience in PCB Design, Embedded Systems, Analog/Digital Electronics, and industrial electronic products. I understand this is not a standard PCB project. This board is a capacitive sensor electrode where the copper geometry and solder mask layer are part of the electrical design. I will follow your specifications exactly and avoid applying normal PCB assumptions. I will provide: ✓ Complete KiCad 7/8 source files ✓ Two PCB variants: * FF-CAP-100 with active plate + guard ring * FF-CAP-100-NG without guard ring ✓ 100×100 mm, 2-layer FR4 PCB layout ✓ Correct isolated copper zones and net separation ✓ Front face fully covered by solder mask with no exposed copper ✓ ACT via placed at the centre of the active plate ✓ Back-side ACT / GRD / SHD pads with labels ✓ Gerber RS-274X and Excellon drill files ✓ Manufacturing setup for JLCPCB/PCBWay ✓ PCB order support, cost confirmation, and tracking follow-up ✓ Fab communication regarding solder mask thickness I will carefully verify all critical details: * Active plate and guard ring dimensions * 1 mm isolation gap * Electrical isolation between ACT, GRD, and SHD * No front silkscreen * Correct fabrication parameters I can start immediately and deliver fabrication-ready files. Best regards, Hamza STM32 Engineer | PCB Design | Motor Control
$90 USD in 5 days
5.4
5.4

Hello sir, Did go through your job description and glad to share that I have enormous experience in working with Capacitive Electrode for Concrete Slipform I'm a seasoned programmer and Engineer with quality experience in Flutter, React, Node.JS, SpringBoot, Frontend and Backend Development, Python, Matlab, R studio, C, C++, C#, OpenCV, OpenGL, Tesseract OCR, google vision, Statisticaal programming/R progamming data analysis Computing for Data Analysis Time Series & Econometric, Machine learning, AI, Deep learning, Matlab and Mathematica, 3D modeling, CAD/CAM,AutoCAD, 2D, Architectural Engineering, SolidWorks, Unity 3D, PCB, Electronics, Arduino, Automation, Embedded and Firmware , IOT, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering I am a TOP Rated Freelancer, and you can check my reviews here as well: https://www.freelancer.com/u/mzdesmag. Looking forward to potentially working together on this project. Thanks and Best regards, Adekunle.
$30 USD in 1 day
5.2
5.2

Being a Senior Electronics Engineer with extensive experience in circuit design, I understand the technical intricacies of this project. My proficiency with KiCad, PCB layout and solder masking makes me an ideal fit for your Capacitive Electrode project. Over the span of 8 years, I've extensively worked in RF engineering and high-power electronic and power-distribution design – two key domains to cater to your needs. Additionally, my versatility extends to embedded systems development and firmware programming (C / C++ / embedded) which will further aid in ensuring seamless integration between the PCB, the electrode and control systems. This crosses over effectively to your requirement of choosing the redundant 'unconnected GRD pad' as per Variant 2. I understand the significance of ruthless adherence to project requirements, particularly in experimental controls. Therefore, you can trust me to follow your instructions diligently as mentioned. My solid track record of completing projects starting from concept through design, simulation, validation, documentation, and final implementation - all while prioritizing safety and compliance with standards - proves my ability to precisely carry out this project for you under time constraints. I'm looking forward to leveraging my experience to deliver a robust solution that'll meet your exact needs efficiently.
$140 USD in 5 days
4.4
4.4

--MANUFACTURING FEE INCLUDED-- Hi, are you trying to build somekind of capacitive sensor? the solder mask thickness state by JLCPCB is >= 10um, i think if you range within 15-40um will be acceptable. i can build you this PCB quickly and i order many time from JLCPCB, for 5pcs 100x100mm may only takes less than 10USD. the shipping cost may be higher, but i think i can order you on your behalf. and i can ship you this 2 variant (100x100mm) from JLC with no additional charge so you don't have to pay anything anymore. just let me know, i have 11 years of experience in PCB design across multiple application from medical instrument to industrial refinery
$250 USD in 1 day
4.4
4.4

Hi, I can help with this project. The requirements are clear, and I understand the special constraints regarding the solder mask, isolated copper zones, center-fed active plate, and the guarded/unguarded variants. I will provide the KiCad source files, Gerbers, drill files, and manufacturing-ready outputs exactly as specified. Please check my portfolio for PCB design work. I'm ready to start immediately. Best regards, Ahmed
$140 USD in 7 days
4.2
4.2

Designing a specialized capacitive sensor PCB for concrete immersion, ensuring all unique specifications are met with precision and expertise. Let's create the perfect sensor electrode optimized for your application, following your detailed instructions carefully. Looking forward to bringing this innovative project to life with accuracy and efficiency. What is the nominal solder mask thickness, in microns?
$105 USD in 7 days
2.6
2.6

Hi, I have read your specific requirements for the capacitive sensor electrodes and perfectly understand the critical need for a fully masked front copper face to act as a dielectric layer. I can quickly create both variant designs in KiCad precisely to your dimensions while strictly avoiding any standard layout conventions that you restricted. I will generate all manufacturing files and contact the fabrication house to verify the precise solder mask thickness in microns before placing your complete order. Best regards
$120 USD in 5 days
2.5
2.5

Hello, I appreciate the detailed PCB design brief for the capacitive sensor electrode, and I am confident that my expertise in CAD/CAM, circuit design, and embedded systems will ensure precise adherence to your unusual specifications. My experience in creating PCB layouts with KiCad includes complex projects requiring meticulous attention to dielectric properties, copper layout, and custom manufacturing instructions, making me well-equipped to handle the unique challenges of this sensor. I will design and prepare the source files, Gerber, and drill files with strict compliance to your specifications and will coordinate with PCB manufacturers like JLCPCB or PCBWay for efficient ordering and shipping, including order confirmation and tracking. To ensure optimal design, I will carefully consider the placement of the ACT via at the centre of the active plate, meticulously cover the copper with solder mask as a dielectric, and design the nets to be electrically isolated without unnecessary connections. I will prepare the file set for both variants, including the unguarded control, making sure all critical instructions about solder mask, silkscreen, and manufacturing details are followed. Before placing the order, I will verify the solder mask thickness to meet your sensor capacitance project. Let's discuss your preferred timeline for completion and any reference materials to refine the design further. What is the nominal solder mask thickness, in microns? Thanks, Gourav
$30 USD in 1 day
1.9
1.9

Hello, With over 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and manufacturing, I am more than confident that I can successfully complete this project for you. My proficiency in CAD and CAM tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and CATIA will enable me to create a precise and functional PCB design for your capacitive sensor electrode. I understand the significance of adhering to every instruction detailed in the brief, especially with the unusual solder mask requirement that serves as a dielectric layer, given the wet concrete environment. In addition to my mechanical expertise, I have a solid background in product development and manufacturing process planning. This means I can ensure that your final Arduino board is not only optimally designed but also cost-effective to produce. As I value clear communication and timely delivery, you can expect frequent updates on my progress and assurance that all the deliverables will be met in time. Your project fascinates me as it represents an opportunity to apply my skills differently while still adhering to the highest standards of mechanical design. By choosing me for this project, you will have ensured that a deeply experienced professional has taken up the task with particular attention to detail. I look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you-taking your idea from concept to creation Thanks!
$30 USD in 2 days
0.0
0.0

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