# /docs/user-manual

End-user documentation and guides for your KiCad project.

## Purpose
This directory contains documentation for the end users of your finished product, including operation manuals, setup guides, and troubleshooting information.

## Document Types
- **User Manual**: Complete operating instructions
- **Quick Start Guide**: Getting started quickly
- **Installation Guide**: Setup and installation procedures
- **Troubleshooting Guide**: Common problems and solutions
- **Safety Information**: Important safety warnings
- **Specifications**: Technical specifications for users
- **FAQ**: Frequently asked questions

## Recommended Files
```
user-manual/
├── user-manual.md               # Complete user manual
├── quick-start.md               # Quick start guide
├── installation.md              # Installation instructions
├── operation.md                 # Operating procedures
├── troubleshooting.md           # Problem solving guide
├── specifications.md            # Technical specifications
├── safety.md                    # Safety information
├── faq.md                       # Frequently asked questions
├── warranty.md                  # Warranty information
└── images/                      # User manual images
    ├── setup-diagram.png
    ├── connection-diagram.png
    ├── led-indicators.jpg
    └── troubleshooting-flowchart.png
```

## User Manual Structure
### Suggested Sections
1. **Introduction**
   - Product overview
   - Key features
   - What's included in the box

2. **Safety Information**
   - Important warnings
   - Precautions
   - Regulatory compliance

3. **Installation/Setup**
   - Unpacking instructions
   - Connection procedures
   - Initial configuration

4. **Operation**
   - Basic operation
   - Advanced features
   - User interface guide

5. **Troubleshooting**
   - Common problems
   - Error codes/indicators
   - Solutions and fixes

6. **Specifications**
   - Technical specifications
   - Environmental conditions
   - Compliance information

7. **Maintenance**
   - Routine maintenance
   - Cleaning procedures
   - Storage recommendations

8. **Support**
   - Contact information
   - Warranty details
   - Additional resources

## Quick Start Guide
Create a concise guide for immediate use:
- **Unboxing**: What's in the package
- **Connections**: Essential connections only
- **Power On**: First power-up procedure
- **Basic Test**: Simple functionality test
- **Next Steps**: Reference to full manual

## Installation Guide
Detailed setup instructions:
- **Prerequisites**: Required tools and materials
- **Environment**: Installation environment requirements
- **Step-by-Step**: Detailed installation procedure
- **Verification**: How to verify correct installation
- **Configuration**: Initial setup and configuration

## Troubleshooting Guide
Help users solve problems:
- **Symptom-Based**: Organize by what user observes
- **LED Indicators**: What different lights mean
- **Error Codes**: Explanation of error messages
- **Common Issues**: Most frequent problems
- **Advanced Diagnostics**: For technical users
- **When to Contact Support**: Escalation criteria

## Safety Information
Critical safety content:
- **Warnings**: Serious hazards that could cause injury
- **Cautions**: Situations that could damage equipment
- **Notes**: Important information for proper operation
- **Regulatory**: Compliance statements and certifications
- **Disposal**: Proper disposal and recycling information

## Writing Guidelines
- **User-Focused**: Write from user's perspective
- **Clear Language**: Avoid technical jargon
- **Step-by-Step**: Break complex procedures into steps
- **Visual Aids**: Include diagrams and photos
- **Consistent Terminology**: Use same terms throughout
- **Test Instructions**: Verify all procedures work
- **Version Control**: Keep documentation current with product

## Images and Diagrams
Include helpful visuals:
- **Connection diagrams**: How to connect cables
- **LED status indicators**: What lights mean
- **User interface**: Screenshots or photos of displays
- **Physical installation**: Mounting and positioning
- **Troubleshooting flowcharts**: Decision trees for problems

## Localization Considerations
If supporting multiple languages:
- **Text Translation**: Professional translation services
- **Cultural Adaptation**: Local customs and preferences
- **Units**: Metric vs imperial measurements
- **Regulatory**: Local compliance requirements
- **Support**: Local support contact information