Compact PCB for AutoSmear Device

I already have an ESP32-C3 prototype of AutoSmear running reliably on a hand-wired board, but now it is time to turn that lab-bench tangle into a production-ready PCB. Compact layout is my top priority: the board must fit inside the existing enclosure while leaving room for future shielding and airflow. Just as important, the A4988 motor driver needs to be integrated cleanly so the stepper that moves the blood-film spreader glides without vibration or jerks.

What I will hand over to you
• Tested firmware ( ESP32-C3)
• Current schematic, wiring diagram and BOM
• Mechanical constraints for board outline and mounting points

What I need back
• Updated schematic reflecting any refinements you suggest
• Space-efficient multilayer PCB layout with proper ground strategy, decoupling and short motor-phase traces
• Gerber/ODB++, pick-and-place and drill files ready for fabrication
• BOM with manufacturer part numbers and at least one readily available alternative per critical part
• Brief design report highlighting noise-reduction choices, EMI counter-measures and how smooth motor operation was validated (e.g., trace impedance, bulk/ceramic capacitor placement, microstepping current paths)

Acceptance criteria
1. Board footprint fits inside the provided DXF outline with all keep-out zones respected.
2. Stepper tests at 16-microstep mode run continuously for 30 min with no missed steps or audible resonance.
3. Wireless communication range remains equal to or better than the current prototype.

I’m comfortable if you work in KiCad, Altium, or Eagle as long as the final deliverables are neutral-format files plus PDFs for quick review. If questions arise about power budgeting, EMI or thermal paths, you will have direct access to me and the mechanical designer so decisions are quick and data-driven.

If crafting compact, low-noise boards around ESP32 and stepper drivers is your thing, I’d love to see how you can help push AutoSmear closer to the clinic.