Breadboard Architecture¶
The breadboard is the "canvas" of the MICRORACK system. Understanding how it works is key to building complex patches and expanding your system.
How Breadboards Work¶
A standard breadboard consists of:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminal Strips | The main area where modules are inserted. Organized in vertical columns of 5 connected points. |
| Power Rails | The horizontal rows at the top and bottom (marked with + and – or red and blue lines). |
| Center Gap | The divider that separates the two halves of the terminal strips. |
A breadboard is the base platform where you will build your MICRORACK system. It distributes power and provides mechanical support for all your modules.
Compatible full-size 830 tie-point breadboards are included in every MICRORACK Kit and widely available online or at local electronics stores.
MICRORACK Standard 830 tie-point breadboard has two main sections:
- Horizontal Power Rails: Located on the top and bottom of breadboard, these rails provide power to all your modules.
- Vertical Terminals: The central area of breadboard which is not used for power or signals, but can help you extend connections or build custom circuits around your MICRORACK setup.
For more details on breadboards and how to use them, check out the Breadboard page.
Recommended Breadboard Sizes¶
| Size | Contact Points | Modules | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 830-point | 830 | 8-12 | Standard setups |
| 400-point | 400 | 4-6 | Portable/compact rigs |
Bridging the Gap¶
Many standard breadboards have a split in the power rails halfway across the board. This can interrupt power flow in larger systems.
The MICRORACK Solution: Every MICRORACK module is designed to bridge the power rails. When you insert a module:
- It draws power from the rails on its left side
- It passes power through to the rails on its right side
- Power flows continuously left-to-right, even across rail gaps
Tip: If you're using a breadboard with a physical gap in the power rails, simply place a MICRORACK module over the gap to "bridge" the power to the other side.
Module Placement¶
Orientation Rules¶
- Vertical Alignment: Modules must be placed vertically to align power pins with the rails
- The Notch: Always ensure the triangular notch is at the bottom of the module
- Power Pins: Located at the bottom corners — they connect to the breadboard power rails
Spacing¶
- Modules can be placed side-by-side with no gap
- Leave gaps between modules for custom circuits or prototyping
- The terminal strip area above modules is available for patching and experimentation
Pin Layout¶
Per the MICRORACK Mechanical Specification:
| Position | Rail |
|---|---|
| Bottom-left corners | GND, V12- |
| Top-left corners | V12+, V5+ |
| Bottom-right corners | GND, V12- |
| Top-right corners | V12+, V5+ |
Safe Design: If you accidentally insert a module backwards, it simply won't work — MICRORACK modules include reverse polarity protection and won't be damaged.