Before powering a circuit.

[darren adcock]

I understand this depends heavily on types of circuits.

What checks do people do?

My checks are usually just checking rails are isolated and a pcb/solder inspection. But then I've read other methods for example checking resistance between rails and VCC+ and - on ic's.

Feel like I want to make some kind of protocol to follow but unsure what this might be.

 

[dorke]

Yes,
it depends heavily on the circuit.

Is it a newly developed one? Is it a kit? etc.

I would suggest this:

1. Check ohmic values of power lines to ground and other power lines ,
same for inputs and outputs, to be the expected values.

2. Use current limited power supplys with current reading for first connection (and later on).

3. First activation without loads on outputs.

4. Check correct polarity connection of power supplys before first powering-up (this is very important!!!).

5. Lastly the verdict of the inevitable "smoke test".

 

[darren adcock]

I tend to make a few kits then a couple of stripboard circuits so I have to learn more about the circuits.

Thank you this is helpful and will be in print at my bench