A link light is not the finish line
Cabling, power, enclosure grounding and nearby equipment can make installation conditions very different from a lab bench. Define the intended environment early.
Layout is part of the link
Review differential routes, return paths, grounding and connector placement against the chosen PHY guidance. Copying another board without checking its stack-up and components is risky.
Before release
- Review schematic and PCB against manufacturer guidance
- Test application-appropriate cables and lengths
- Log errors and recovery under changing system load
- Plan EMC tests for the required environment and standards
A checklist or a reference design result does not establish compliance for a new product.