If you’re considering learning how to design PCBs using KiCad, you should know a few things before you begin. First, this guide will show you the basics of PCB design using KiCad, including keyboard shortcuts, library symbols, and adding components. Then, you can expand your knowledge by reading the following articles.
Basics of PCB design in KiCad
The first step in designing a PCB in KiCad is slicing the features into individual layers. A physical PCB is made from many layers of different materials sandwiched together through other processes. These layers are represented in the computer program as separate design layers. KiCad displays these layers on the right side of the screen. Keep in mind that the order of the layers does not necessarily match the order in which they will be stacked.
KiCad is open-source software and is free to download. Donations are encouraged but not required to use the program. The program has a community of developers who welcome your help and suggestions. You do not need to be an expert to use KiCad; even a beginner can easily design a PCB.
The next step in creating a PCB in KiCad is to create a schematic. This can be done through the Schematic Layout Editor (also called Eeschema). Open this editor and click the “Add” button to create a schematic.
Keyboard shortcuts
When using Kicad, several shortcuts can save you time and energy. Most commands in the program are available as keyboard shortcuts. For example, pressing a key on the keyboard will automatically add a wire to a schematic, and a keypress will apply that command to a floating object.
The mouse wheel can be used to zoom in and out. If you hold Shift while scrolling, you can scroll up or left. The middle mouse button (wheel) can be used to pan the view. To create a KiCad project, you need to create a dedicated directory and a *.pro file for your project. To create a new project, open KiCad’s man window, press Ctrl+N, and create a reliable guide.
Creating library symbols
Library symbols are files that contain the symbols for your KiCad projects. There are several ways to create a library in Kicad. The first way is to create a new library in the File menu. Once this is done, you can choose to make the library available for all projects or just the current project. You can also check whether the library you created already exists by looking at the header of the Editor window. If so, the Path and name will be displayed.
Next, you need to choose a name for your symbol. When creating a library symbol, remember to put the ‘s name character in the file name. For example, if you’re making a logo for a switch, you’ll want the ‘s name button to appear in the title. Then, you can add a footprint for the symbol.
In Kicad, you can set the name of your library symbol and its footprint. This can be done by double-clicking on the base symbol. This will open a window that includes additional features. For example, the name will consist of the model name of the physical component and any other identifying information. This will help you locate the fitting symbol quickly.
Adding components
Once you’ve created a project in KiCad, you’ll need to add components to it. This can be done with various tools available within the program. First, you must open the datasheet for the details you want to add. Next, you must choose the right size and grid for the components. Finally, pads and relative dimensions should match the datasheet recommendations, and the default designator text should be removed from the origin.
You may also want to download libraries from the Internet or copy them from another source. When you’re ready, open the library folder. You should see several libraries. To add them, click the “Add library” button. Once you have selected a library, the component is ready for use in all your KiCad projects.
You can find the library for the part in the Global Libraries tab if you’re using the global libraries. First, select the library and specify the Path that contains the component. Next, make sure that the Path to the library matches the part name. Finally, set the Plugin Type to KiCad. Then, double-click the footprint to open it.
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