grabowski
046f66f6eb
- Add dedicated /kicad/ directory with organized subdirectories for libraries, schematics, gerbers, plots, and backups - Create comprehensive KiCad 9 library structure (symbols, footprints, 3D models) - Add manufacturing-ready directories for production files (gerbers, drill, pick-and-place) - Update all README files with KiCad-specific documentation and workflows - Add KiCad-optimized .gitignore file for proper version control - Create KICAD-PROJECT-TEMPLATE.md comprehensive usage guide - Add hardware assembly documentation and BOM management - Include detailed manufacturing file generation instructions - Add docs structure with design-notes and user-manual directories - Provide complete workflow from design to manufacturing with quality checklists
/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
-
Introduction
- Product overview
- Key features
- What's included in the box
-
Safety Information
- Important warnings
- Precautions
- Regulatory compliance
-
Installation/Setup
- Unpacking instructions
- Connection procedures
- Initial configuration
-
Operation
- Basic operation
- Advanced features
- User interface guide
-
Troubleshooting
- Common problems
- Error codes/indicators
- Solutions and fixes
-
Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Environmental conditions
- Compliance information
-
Maintenance
- Routine maintenance
- Cleaning procedures
- Storage recommendations
-
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