August 29, 2024
Top 20+ Flux Copilot Prompts for Hardware Design
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Initial Planning and Brainstorming
Focuses on early project development to establish a solid project foundation.
@copilot, use mermaid-formatted block diagrams to generate 2 well-detailed architecture design of this project for comparison. Make sure to use the technical and functional requirements information.
@copilot, I’m designing a custom voice-controlled speaker and I initially want it to have buttons, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and rechargeable battery. Help me brainstorm and develop a comprehensive product requirements document. Ask me one question at a time, waiting for my response before moving to the next question.
@copilot, validate the the suggested architecture in the block diagram matches the product requirements set for this project. Point out any missing blocks that would be needed to satisfy the requirements.
Design Circuit Blocks
Brainstorm and optimize modular circuit blocks for faster hardware development.
@copilot, based on my requirements, help me figure out the best power architecture for this project. What should the power tree look like?
Select Components
Involves choosing appropriate parts for implementation, recommending main and alternative components that meet design requirements.
@copilot, here's the block diagram of this design. In a table format, recommend at least 3 IC for each block highlighting the electrical characteristics of the IC and why you recommended it.
@copilot, list all components specified in the datasheet of U1 for building the typical application circuit. Present the information in a detailed table format with equations needed to size the components.
@copilot, outline the electrical characteristics of U4 as detailed in the datasheet. Then, suggest at least four drop-in replacement parts, presented in a table format with the columns
@copilot, query all components in the schematic that do not have an assigned manufacturer part number (MPN). Compile these components into a table format with the following details: Designator, Component Function, Electrical Properties, and Recommended MPN (Provide a list of recommended part numbers based on the component's properties, focusing on the most popular and widely available parts).
Improve Supply Chain
Focuses on optimizing component selection and management, including consolidating similar passive components and addressing part obsolescence to streamline the bill of materials and reduce costs.
@copilot, perform a BoM consolidation review to identify passive components (resistors, capacitors, and inductors) that have similar but different values (within ±50%) and the same package code. The goal is to simplify the BoM and reduce costs by replacing these components with a single value where possible, without affecting the circuit's functionality.
For each group of similar components, compare their electrical and mechanical characteristics, then identify a single value that can replace the others. Provide a detailed comparison table for each group, listing the designators, component values, package codes, and the proposed consolidated value, along with key specifications and any additional notes. Document the final proposed consolidated BoM in a table format.
@copilot, identify all components in the schematic that are either obsolete or not recommended for new designs (NRND). Compile these components into a table with the following details: Designator, Description/Function, Obsolete/NRND Status, Recommended Alternative Parts (Suggest at least 2 alternative components and their MPN that are current, widely available, and suitable replacements, based on the original component's specifications).
Calculate Component Values
Involves precise calculations for sizing various components often using Python for accuracy and presenting results in detailed tables.
@copilot, from the datasheet of U1 obtain equations used to
Calculate these values using python and present the results in a clear and detailed table.
@copilot, use Python to calculate the load capacitors for Y1 using the information from its datasheet.
@copilot, use the datasheets of LED D5 and D2 to obtain electrical characteristics needed to calculate the appropriate current-limiting resistor value. Then use python to calculate the value and present it in a well detailed table forma.
Research Components
Involves detailed examination of integrated components to ensure proper component selection and usage in the design.
@copilot, from the datasheet of U2 List the pin names, functions, and additional attributes for the IC. Include the following details for each pin in a table format: Pin Name, Function, Pin Type (e.g., power, ground, signal), Pin Direction (e.g., input, output, bidirectional, passive), Default State (e.g., high, low, floating), Voltage Level (if applicable), Additional Notes (e.g., pull-up/pull-down resistor, special considerations).
@copilot What are the absolute maximum ratings for U5? Identify any critical components that must be carefully selected to stay within these limits and present the results in a well detailed table format.
Data Visualization and Analysis
Utilizes Python to create visual representations of design data to assist in analysis and decision-making.
@copilot, use python to plot a bar graph showing the most expensive components in this design.
Design Reviews
Provides thorough checks of specific circuit elements to verify correct calculations and implementation in the schematic and layout.
@copilot, list all ICs and the decoupling capacitors attached to each. Ensure to include all ICs present in the design, including digital ICs, power converters, LDOs, etc. For every IC, clearly state:
@copilot, review the design to ensure all current-limiting resistors for LEDs are correctly calculated for a current range of 1mA to 10mA. Follow these steps:
@copilot, determine the efficiency of U4 at various load conditions, considering that the input is a battery with a voltage range from 4.2V (fully charged) to 3.3V (low battery level). Identify which components in the circuit affect this efficiency and present that in a detailed table. Finally, use python to plot a graph showing the efficiency of U1 across the range of load conditions and input voltages.
Testing and Reliability Analysis
Generates test plans and collaborative workflows, ensuring your hardware is manufactured error-free.
@copilot, create a detailed step-by-step plan table for this project to verify its functionality.
@copilot, develop an FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) report in a table format that analyzes the systems schematic, each unique component specification, and operational parameters. It should identify critical failure modes, assess their impact, and recommend mitigation actions based on severity, occurrence probability, and detectability. Include columns such as: process step, potential failure mode, potential failure effect, S, O, D, RPN, Action Recommended, and any other you see fit.
A lot has happened since then. Thanks to your feedback, we’ve been able to improve Copilot and add even more capabilities. Now you can use Copilot for brainstorming, selecting components, performing calculations, researching and selecting parts, managing BoM, and even validating designs.
We realize that writing a good prompt can be tricky, so we’ve refreshed our list of popular prompts so you can copy and paste, or modify for your own use!
First, let’s define what a prompt is. Copilot prompts are natural language inputs given to a custom-trained large language model (LLM) specifically designed to understand hardware, electronics circuit, PCB design and layout.
For example, if the prompt is "Calculate the load capacitors for Y1", the model will generate an answer in a human-like manner based on the prompt. Remember, Copilot has the context on what you’re working on. Copilot can see your:
Because Copilot lives inside the PCB design tool, it provides direct feedback, advice, and analysis, and with your approval - it can take action, through a simple chat interface. With just a press of a button, Copilot can connect components together.
Spread the word and share your favorite prompts on our Slack Community.
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