NextBoard is an AI Agent designed to automate and streamline hardware product PCB solution design. It assists engineers by processing product requirements, analyzing global chip technologies, selecting components, generating Bill of Materials (BOM) with pricing, downloading datasheets, and ultimately producing integrated, reviewable technical solutions and schematics. The agent targets hardware engineers and researchers seeking an efficient, AI-driven approach to complex PCB design workflows.

How It Works

The project employs a structured, 7-stage design process: Requirement Freezing, Architecture Candidates, System Decomposition, Component Selection, Output Generation, Review, and Verification Gate. It offers three distinct architecture candidate comparisons: prioritizing domestic components, utilizing overseas mainstream options, or a hybrid compromise. The system incorporates five verification gates for phased quality control and an independent review agent that scores solutions across five dimensions: completeness, risk, implementability, cost, and verification coverage. This methodical approach ensures robust and well-vetted hardware solutions.

Quick Start & Requirements

To begin, invoke the agent using the $hardware-solution command within compatible AI IDEs such as Claude Code, Codex, or Cursor. Installation involves cloning the repository (https://github.com/LeoKemp223/NextBoard) and executing the ./scripts/install.sh script, which guides users through global, project-specific (--plugin-dir), or Marketplace installation options. Prerequisites include having one of the supported AI IDEs installed. The README provides detailed installation and uninstallation instructions for various platforms and configurations.

Highlighted Details

• Features a 7-stage, structured design workflow from initial requirements to final verification.
• Provides comparative analysis of architecture candidates, including a "Domestic Priority" option.
• Includes supply chain risk assessment and references for domestic component alternatives.
• An independent review agent evaluates solutions on completeness, risk, implementability, cost, and verification coverage.
• Outputs include Markdown documentation, datasheets, footprint libraries, and PDF technical solutions.

Maintenance & Community

The project acknowledges support from the LinuxDo community. No specific details regarding active contributors, sponsorships, or dedicated community channels (like Discord or Slack) are provided in the README.

Licensing & Compatibility

NextBoard is released under the MIT License, which is highly permissive and generally allows for commercial use and integration into closed-source projects without significant restrictions.

Limitations & Caveats

Hooks functionality is unavailable when using the global installation method due to a lack of plugin context. The Codex platform does not support the project's plugin mode. Global installation for Cursor requires manual file copying rather than automated script execution. Operation is dependent on specific AI IDE environments.