Simple Circuit Topology Identification Learning

[opensourcefan]

I find this topic fascinating. Maybe I'm not using "topology" properly but what I want to be able to do is look at a pcb and recognize the functional blocks within the circuit.

I've really taken a liking to psu's. Trying to recognize the mains input / mains filter / rectification / etc etc.

Is there a recommended book or knowledge base on recognizing circuits based on major components?

I've been identifying components and going into their datasheets and finding the necessary supporting components and looking for them on a board then marking out that area. Is there a better way to learn?

Thank you, feels like I'm treading water in the middle of the Pacific.

[Terry Bites]

There are usually (mostly) a number of circuit solutions for a given function. The solutions will have their pros and cons. Mostly "topology" refers to the implementation type. Being able to solve topological problems is a different thing. It is a core skill for pcb design. You need to like unkotting spaghetti.

You can identify many blocks by inspection and a bit of reverse engineering. A lot depends on your experience in identifying major components,common ics and other semis. Staring at a micro based system tells you very little- its all in the code which you probably can't access. There are no short cuts to this kind of knowhow, though being obsessive really helps. Boost your nerd power by pouring over component vendors and manafactures sites so you can see the real thing vs the schematic. Get on a basic electronics course, loads of free stuff out there.


Us old geezers have the massive advantage of living through the electronics revolution since the dark days before microprocessors or logic ics or opamps existed.

[opensourcefan]

Yes I suppose being old is what is attracting me to this. I'm use to looking at big bulky components and shy away from SM stuff. I'm also obsessive so you nailed this diagnoses.

I'm fairly comfortable recognizing the bits and pieces, it's usually the surrounding diodes, resistors, etc that throw me for a loop. I've just assumed they are support components to the bigger ones. "why is there an inductor there?" I find I'm asking myself.

I was lucky enough to pull a board from an old TV and it is quite large, mostly TH vs SM, sparsely populated with very clear designations on the different blocks. Of course that was the surface of the rabbit hole.