hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
difficulty editing traces - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2020, 03:47:30 pm
content: I have my solution to why KiCad does this but i still see it as a problem. I have traces that are 150µm to pass small gaps but for the most part need to be 250µm. I can't see any way to change mid run. If i go back and change the traces to 250µm I cause a rule violation (the trace ran close to another one) and can no longer use the 45 degree drag tool but can use the free angle drag tool because apparently of the violation. If I change the traces back to 150µm I can then drag them around.Ironically having broken the rules I am not allowed to fix the issue. Funnily enough I think I ran into similar in circuit studio.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2020, 07:45:46 pm
content: You're intermixing multiple different (but overlapping) issues here.First: Changing track widht on the fly.While drawing a track, click on your mouse's right ear and select: "Select Track/Via width" from the popup menu.If you make a list of pre-defined track widths in:**Kicad / File / Board Setup / Design Rules / Tracks & Vias**then you can loop through this list with "w" and [Shift + w] during laying of the tracks.If you make tracks wider, and this wider track causes DRC violations, you can change this behavior with:**Pcbnew / Route / Interactive Router / Settings**If you set the mode to "Highlight Colisions" you can also "Allow DRC Violations**Currently the interactive router has some problems with track segments of different widths. It is not able to move the point where the width changes. This is a known current limitation

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2020, 08:23:14 pm
content: Ah, right, thanks.
Layer color is different than the actual layer selected - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: travis_the_maker
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 26, 2020, 07:41:01 pm
content: Thoughts on what might be happening here?https://streamable.com/ita6waI thought I might have corrupted the file so I made a new board drawing and the same thing is happening when I try and change the layer.

author: julian1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2020, 08:59:38 pm
content: The red color indicates, that you are creating text in the front copper layer.You need to select F.Silk layer (blue) first, then create the text.Edit. watched it again and see what you're getting at. But I think it's just a case of order matters, select layer, then create object.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2020, 09:38:06 pm
content: I can see some text jumping around on a (probably) 2speed video, without any explanation of your intention, and I'm not in the mood for guesswork.Can you explain what you want to do?It would make it a lot easier to provide a solution that works for you.
How to use the free PCB Part Libraries - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cobramostar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2020, 06:39:22 pm
content: Code:<!DOCTYPE html><html><head><title>Instructions for schematic symbols and footprints</title></head><body style="font-family:verdana"><h2>How to use the free PCB Part Libraries:</h2><p>1. Please double-click the ".msi" file to install the Library Loader application, it takes less than a minute!</p><p>2. Double-click on the Library Loader desktop shortcut. <a href="https://componentsearchengine.com/graphics/LibraryLoader.png"><img alt="Library Loader Desktop Shortcut" src="https://componentsearchengine.com/graphics/LibraryLoader.png" style="max-height: 20px;"/></a></p><p>Thank you for downloading our PCB Part Libraries.</p><p>For further information please visit - <a href="http://www.samacsys.com/library-loader-help/">Library Loader help</a></p></body></html>can anyone explain to me how you did this on linux ? ? ?pcb-part-libraries.epwfor example I foundbut I don't know how to insert itthanks

author: tox3
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2020, 08:21:28 am
content: .MSI file is Windows specific installation package file.You can try to use Wine to run it under Linux

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2020, 09:15:54 am
content: Samacsys's symbols and footprints can be downloaded with only a web browser so you don't need a program but you still need to register for an account. Also their symbols will require a few minutes massaging to be suitable for KiCad, sometimes the pins are not in a sensible layout and usually the pin types default to Undefined which causes problems with ERC later. Sometimes it's faster just to make your own symbol in KiCad.
Tool for panelizing in Kicad: kicad-util - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dren.dk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2019, 11:27:49 am
content: I've just completed a tool that create the tabs with mouse-bites between pcbs in pcbnew, it's on gitlab here:https://gitlab.com/dren.dk/kicad-utilThe workflow is quite simple:1: Start pcbnew outside of a project2: Append and place completed boards.3: Draw lines between the boards in the Eco1.User layer where you want tabs to connect the boards.4: Run my kicad util with the panel option.5: Open the newly created output pcb file and re-fill zones or run DRC or whatever else you need to do.The tool also creates lines 3 and 6 mm away from the holes to indicate the distance that should be respected for tracks and smd caps respectively.

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2019, 10:32:37 pm
content: Perfect timing, I am just about to do this for a few boards. I'll definitely try your software.Switching to kicad was one of the best things I've done so far (AD18 professional user here)

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 06, 2019, 03:38:17 am
content: Nice! I'll be putting this to good use!Just be careful with running pcbnew outside a project, it has a habit of confusing other kicad programs running...Or at least used to.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2019, 03:50:43 pm
content: Looks Good!This can be a quite usefull addition to the KiCad toolbox. Panelisation is a bit of a blind spot in Kicad.Have you thought about also posting this on the KiCad forum?https://forum.kicad.info/search?q=panel%20order%3AlatestThere are manyu more users on the KiCad forum than here on EEVblog.

author: dren.dk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2019, 04:53:13 pm
content: Good idea, I just posted there too.The last time I tried the kicad forum it was completely useless, it seems they have upgraded a bit:)

author: maelstrom.labs
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 26, 2020, 02:46:51 pm
content: Amazing tool. Worked perfect to make panels. Thanks.

author: MarkR42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2020, 08:48:44 pm
content: I also used it for my panels, it's very good. But he didn't update it for Kicad nightly, so I forked it here:https://gitlab.com/markxr/kicad-util
"Standardizing" schematic part sizes with page - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: LoveLaika
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2020, 02:00:15 pm
content: Sometimes, when I work on a schematic in KiCAD, I find that there are component and page mismatches. What I mean is that because of the way the KiCAD schematic page is laid out, I can't seem to be able to reach a node on a component at times. I think this has something to do with the schematic grid size/spacing, my custom-made components, maybe even KiCAD's own components. It's kind of annoying, so I'm trying to fix it by either fixing the schematic template or redoing my own custom parts to be more aligned with the default KiCAD schematic grid. What are the typical units and spacing of KiCAD's own grid so that I may use it as a guide when redoing my old components?

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2020, 02:24:43 pm
content: https://forum.kicad.info/t/tutorial-how-to-make-a-symbol-kicad-v5-1-x/13336Use a 50 (default) or 100 mil grid or you will have problems connecting things.

author: LoveLaika
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2020, 02:39:28 pm
content: Thanks. That helps a lot. Everyone seems to like to use mils whereas I'm used to millimeters. I know that mils is a common standard, but it's kind of annoying at times, especially when engineering formulas seems to use the metric system.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2020, 02:47:31 pm
content: Quote from: LoveLaika on September 25, 2020, 02:39:28 pmMils vs mm really shouldn't matter as long as the grid of the symbol is the same (or integer multiple) of the grid used in the editor. Of course, if you want to use existing symbol libraries it is better to stick to the conventions.This mils/millimeters matters when laying out a board because through-hole footprints are usually on an imperial 0.1" grid and SMD ones are mostly metric.

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2020, 02:48:18 pm
content: It's historical and anyway it's irrelevant for a schematic which is symbolic whereas on a PCB it is physical. You can think if it as 1.27mm or 2.54mm if you wish. Engineering types have all sorts of conversion factors in their head anyway.
Interactive HTML BOM integration on Kitspace - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kasbah
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2020, 12:43:28 pm
content: Hey folks,We integrated the fantastic Interactive HTML BOM plugin intokitspace.orgso all KiCad projects automatically get a IBOM page.Check out theRadiona ULX3S FPGA board, Jan Henrik'sUSB-C PD TS-100 soldering iron replacement PCB, Whitequark'sGlasgow hacker multi-toolor Matt Venn'sTeensy Audio FXas examples.In case you don't know, Kitspace is a place to share electronics projects. We develop open source web tools to make it as easy as possible to actually replicate open source hardware electronics designs. This new IBOM integration brings us closer to that goal, for KiCad projects at least. If you have any of your own open hardware to share, please do add it to our registry (how-to).
Importing from PADS to KiCAD - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jamie297
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2019, 01:32:49 pm
content: Total PCB newbie here so sorry if this belongs in beginner.I'm trying to replicate an open source project where PCB layout files have been made in PADS. (.pcb file).My university doesn't own this software so I'm trying to use KiCAD.Any way to import this file into KiCAD, or am I stuck with using the free PADS viewer to make a copy?Any other suggestions of free(beer) workarounds appreciated.Thanks in advance

author: jamie297
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2019, 07:49:35 am
content: For anyone else with the same issue, I think I've found a workaround.Gerber files can be viewed with KiCAD, then sent from there to pcbnew for editing.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2019, 03:07:13 pm
content: This is a good workaround.By opening a Gerber in Gerbview, and exporting it to KiCad, you can recover:1). Board outline with mounting hole positions.2). All tracks.3). Usually pads (These are not really in Gerbers).Pads are exported as THT holes, and require a bit of hand work. The usual way is to first recover or redraw the schematic and assign footprints, and then import the Footprints in Pcbnew. These footprints can than easily be aligned with the recovered coordinates from the pads in the gerbers, and after that they can be easily deleted.It still requires manual effort, but it is a nice feature to have such an import capability available.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 16, 2020, 03:37:45 pm
content: 1.https://www.altium.com/solution/migrating-from-mentor-pads-to-altium-designerConvert PADS schematics and layouts or libs into ASCII format.2. Import them into Altium Designer.3. For *.SchDoc and *.PcbDoc,usehttps://github.com/thesourcerer8/altium2kicadto convert them.4. For *.PcbLib, export it into P-CAD *.LIA format.5. For *.SchLib and *.LIA,usehttps://github.com/xtoolbox/pcad2kicadto convert them.6. Import generated *.sch *.kicad_pcb *.lib *.kicad_mod into KiCad project.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2020, 03:30:39 pm
content: QuoteIf one had the software to convert to ASCII, one wouldn't need to convert to ASCII
Stupid question from a new-ish user... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: BADASSLOUMD
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 24, 2020, 09:59:22 pm
content: Ok, what am I missing here?I am running kicad Eschema 5.1.5-3 Win-10 and I am trying tocut-and-paste from one schematic to another schematic (twoseparate files, trying to start one project from another).I have tried opening one file, select block control c,but the paste option remained grey'ed out.I have tried selecting a block and then going right-click"copy block" but again in the new schematic, there is nooption for paste.Surely I am doing something wrong, as there is no waythey would not have cut-and-paste working, but simulationis a "go" ??----Lou

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 24, 2020, 10:29:16 pm
content: https://forum.kicad.info/t/copying-portions-of-schematic-from-another-file-or-project/678/3?

author: StainlessSteelRat
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 28, 2020, 02:40:12 am
content: I had the same problem on Windows 7. I could copy anything on first page to first page, but Paste was Greyed out on second page.I like to say I've solved it, but it may have issues. (Third time I've posted this). Open up both schematics fresh.Make sure you File Open second schematic from first. And use Paste on Toolbar.SSR
How do you copy a component from the standard library to a custom one? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Red Squirrel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2020, 01:46:59 am
content: I like arranging pins on symbols to match the physical pins, as when reading a schematic it just makes it easier to refrence the pins physically vs what's on the schematic instead of having to keep cross referencing the numbers, counting the physical pins etc each time I'm looking back and forth.Rather than create components from scratch I want to just take the existing ones and then just rearrange the pins and save it in my own custom library, that way whenever I have to do a clean install I can just re-import my custom library and not redo it all.Problem is I can't seem to find an actual easy way to do this. I found that if you do "copy" on the component in the side list, and then do paste into the custom library, it sorta works, but it pastes it twice but with a slightly different name. But if you try to delete the duplicate, it deletes both! So how do I go about doing this?

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2020, 03:19:54 am
content: Find symbol you want in symbol editor, double click on it, make changes, save as and specify your own library as destination.Edit: if the alternate names are in italics they are probably aliases. E.g. 74LS14 could be an alias of 74HC14.

author: Red Squirrel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 03:32:37 am
content: Tried that and it sorta worked but it does the same thing. Is there a way to get rid of the aliases? That's probably what's happening.

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 04:54:03 am
content: The aliases are part of the symbol itself and can be removed by editing its properties.
KiCon 2020 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: I wanted a rude username
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2020, 10:10:45 pm
content: The 2020 Developer Q&Ahas been announced for 3rd October, 14:00 UTC (videos will be archived for the benefit of those in distant timezones). Questions can be submitted via the form on the page.Community talkswill take place throughout the rest of the month.
manufacturing information management - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2020, 05:31:31 pm
content: Yeah, I'm back with more questions...So, one of the really cool things about Kicad is the ability to add properties to symbols and footprints. This allows you to link in distributor information which is really great when tied to BoM generation. For LCSC, there is even a BoM generator script. Really nice - now I can keep my schematics in sync with what I am actually building.This is easy for a part that has a unique symbol. Just add a disti field and put in the part number. If you do it to the library symbol, it's there forever (though that may not be great in the long run but I digress).However, for generic symbols (Rs and Cs for example), this doesn't work and you have to change the individual components in the schematic. Slow, tedious. I have taken to editing the schematic files directly to add the data. A bit faster but still tedious. I have 60 resistors in one project with 10 different values so even text editing is a little error prone. I got it done but needed a good long drink afterwards. At least now my BoM generation with LCSC numbers is 100% in sync and I can quickly verify that all the right parts are being specified when I place an assembly order. Well, until I have to change to a different part.Is there a better way to do this?I would love a "spreadsheet view" of my symbols where I could change any value, part number, etc and update the schematic. This would allow me to quickly update with an alternate part number in case of an out of stock situation like happens with JLCPCB regularly. I know there have been database discussions (wars? lots of arguing) about this sort of thing for Kicad but don't see anything out of it.

author: nfmax
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2020, 06:10:10 pm
content: You want 'Edit Symbol Fields' - the top-row icon in eeschema that looks a bit like a spreadsheet. No substitute for a real database, but much easier than editing each symbol's properties one-by-on.

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2020, 06:31:43 pm
content: Thanks. Now I feel pretty dumb missing that. sigh...
message for ChrisG, forum.kicad.info webmaster - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2020, 03:57:34 pm
content: Hi Rene or anybody who can contact ChrisG, the forum.kicad.info webmaster: the site is not allowing logins, that's why there are so few posts, please pass this message on as I can't even PM.New sessions either fail with "you changed your browser", or after Github authentication, fail to login.An existing session can browse but cannot post or PM, a 403 error is returned. Read posts don't stay read. Something to do with the authentication part of the website. Can't even log out of that session, nothing happens.I think all cached credentials need to be flushed. And maybe the connection to external authenticators fixed.Edit: ok it looks like he's looking at SSO.

author: ChrisGammell
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 07, 2020, 04:59:53 pm
content: Yep, should be fixed now. Sorry about the hassle.
Managing Versions: KiCad sets of files - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 11:15:46 am
content: This is probably a large topic but simply...I have a design (OK many designs) which individually have a set of KiCAD files and I put these files in GIT as I go along so for a particular design I have a history of files... so far so good...but now I need to have Rev 2 of my design and concurrently I need to maintain Rev 1 and in particular in Rev 1 I want to record the bodges I need to apply to get it to workWhat's the best way of organising stuff? Copy into a new directory as Rev2 in the same Repo and run them in parallell?Just wondered

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 11:22:29 am
content: git-branch

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 12:15:28 pm
content: Quote from: voltsandjolts on August 07, 2020, 11:22:29 amI need to reorganise to do that... into smaller repos... but that's probably sensible. Currently I have related designs in one repo... but each design versions seperately.

author: Red Squirrel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2020, 04:37:40 pm
content: I THINK you can just copy the whole folder somewhere else. At quick glance it does not look like there are any hard coded paths within any files.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2020, 11:50:11 pm
content: If you have project specific libraries, you could have entered their location as either absolute or relative path inPreferences / Manage Symbol LibrariesPreferences / Manage Footprint LibrariesBoth dialogs have 2 tabs, and the right tab is for "Project specific Libraries".There you can use ${KIPRJMOD} to point to the current location of the active project.All KiCad's files are human readable ascii.I've made good use of this with search and replace operations a few times, for example for changing some symbols or footprint references to different libraries.But as KiCad's own interface is ever improving this is less and less necessary.
vcut panelizing of different designs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Johannsen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2020, 02:53:26 pm
content: HI,I have 5 different kicad projects. All have the same rectangle shaped (20mmx25mm) outlines but different schematics and footprints.I would like to combine them on one board to get it produced by jlcpcb.How can I combine them and mark the vcuts?

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2020, 03:13:04 pm
content: Search for the KiKit tool written in Python.

author: Johannsen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2020, 03:41:59 pm
content: Thanks
KiCAD Gerber to Altium Gerber conversion tool - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 28, 2020, 12:12:39 pm
content: This is totally for noobs noober than I am, but I'll just post it here for Google to index in case someone needs.I just encountered a fab that won't accept KiCAD Gerber naming convention, so I wrote this simple tool to rename and compress the generated Gerber so a KiCAD-unaware fab can manufacture a KiCAD design.Tested with Ubuntu 20.04, and I have no reason to believe it won't work in WSL or MSYS2.Code:#!/bin/bashNAME=your-output-zip-name-here-without-extensionrm $NAME.ziprename 's/-F_Cu.gbr/.gtl/' *.gbrrename 's/-B_Cu.gbr/.gbl/' *.gbrrename 's/-F_Mask.gbr/.gts/' *.gbrrename 's/-B_Mask.gbr/.gbs/' *.gbrrename 's/-F_Paste.gbr/.gtp/' *.gbrrename 's/-B_Paste.gbr/.gbp/' *.gbrrename 's/-F_SilkS.gbr/.gto/' *.gbrrename 's/-B_SilkS.gbr/.gbo/' *.gbrrename 's/-Edge_Cuts.gbr/.gm1/' *.gbr#Uncomment the following line if your fab does not recognize .drl files#rename 's/.drl/.txt/' *.drlzip -9 $NAME.zip *.g?? *.drl > /dev/null

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2020, 01:05:24 pm
content: Couldn't you just uncheck Use Protel filename extensions in the Plot dialog?
KiCAD precision arrow key movement - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 23, 2020, 09:33:13 am
content: Hi all,As I'm familiarizing myself with KiCAD, I ran into another problem: unable to move precisely with m+arrow keys.If I try to move a part with cursor, it moves freely, as expected. But if I try to do that with arrow keys, it sometimes will miss a step or move two steps (which I set to 0.025mm).Is it some sort of hotspot snapping or grid metric/imperial bugs or is it some sort of a feature?Also OT, is there a way to force KiCAD to use metric internally, so let's say, 4.000mm is 4.000mm instead of 3.998mm?Thanks in advance.Regards,B.G.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2020, 10:11:35 am
content: afaik kicad pcb is metric internally, in nanometers

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2020, 07:14:18 pm
content: Assuming you are talking about the layout and further i assume you are under version 5.1.xAre you aware of the move exactly and position relative tools? (both available in the right click context menu, or shortcuts ctrl+m and ctrl+r)And there is also the align and distribute option which might be useful as well (for align tools the last selected item is the reference item unless one of the items is locked than that one is the reference).
DTU: Align objects in Schematic Editor - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2020, 01:17:59 pm
content: Hi,I'm Doing the Unthinkable (DTU) and trying KiCad for a design whilst in lock down (previously a DipTrace fan-boy)...If it's OK I will post features that I miss along the way and hopefully I will be told that they are in KiCad and it's just I haven't found them yet....#1 Alignment on SchematicIs it possible to select a number of components and align them (horizontal or vertical alignment) left, centre, right? And even better to be able to distribute them (vertically or horizontally)?Thanks in advance

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2020, 09:42:14 pm
content: No not possible. You can check the bugtracker (gitlab) if this is already requested. If it is you can upvote the request or also add your comment if you feel the report is missing detail. If there is no request than make one but remember you need to sell you idea to the devs

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2020, 11:46:42 am
content: One thing I do like about KiCad is the files are pretty readable.... so I could script a few of the bulk changes... it's a workaround.... not nice but a workaround.

author: autotel
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2020, 01:36:36 pm
content: I know there is an align/distribute feature in Kicad. I don't use it much, though. Is it different from what you expected? How did you install Kicad?Actually, text-editing kicad files is a thing. I have done it, and you can save a lot of work, using a good text editor with regex search.Please always keep safe a version which has not been edited via text-editor.You'll be interested in regexr.com, where you can test and learn using regex to make clever edits.

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2020, 07:46:44 pm
content: Well OP asked about a similar feature on the schematic side ....

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2020, 09:44:11 pm
content: This seems an age ago but in the end I use python to tweak the locations.It was also pointed out there is a plugin which might be helpful...https://github.com/MitjaNemec/Kicad_action_plugins#place-footprintsMy thread about it is here...https://forum.kicad.info/t/python-parser-for-kicad-pcb/22198I finished that board and have done quite a few since... and I'm still using KiCad and starting to build up quite a collection of symbols and footprints.

author: autotel
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2020, 07:56:36 am
content: Quote from: poeschlr on June 22, 2020, 07:46:44 pmmy badQuote from: NivagSwerdna on June 22, 2020, 09:44:11 pmI'm glad! Kicad is lovely, and I think that every additional user of Kicad does good to the world in a way.
Copy pcb layout to new pcb - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Johannsen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 08:36:34 pm
content: Hello,I designed a layout for a dc-dc converter and want to use that converter also in another pcb(other project). Is there a way that I can copy the layout without redesigning it in pcbnew from scratch?

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 09:17:58 pm
content: There are a few options.If you did not yet start with the layout then you can copy the full pcb over (via the file browser) and rename it to match the new project, possibly delete what you don't want to keep and ensure that the references match the new schematic and choose "by reference" as the match method when syncing the schematic and layout. Seehttps://forum.kicad.info/t/update-pcb-from-schematics-match-methods/21707If you did already start the layout then you can simply open the board with pcbnew in standalone mode and select "append board". All other steps are the same as above.And then there is the option of using the store/restore plugin introduced here:https://forum.kicad.info/t/save-restore-layout-action-plugin/16475It requires the use of hierarchical sheets but does the rest for you.Another option that is however more aimed at future projects is the use of template projects (so basically the first option but without you needing to take care of the renaming stuff)

author: Johannsen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2020, 12:04:56 am
content: Thank you, I will try out the options. I already started with a layout
KiCAD cannot load library and footprint - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2020, 12:03:26 am
content: Hi,here is the photo showing the problem:https://slow.pics/c/TDcT0Zr5I always add a pad and make it mechanical to get it to be a hole, but when I save the project and then return to KiCAD... I find it missing.Now I tried to search for it and this happens.Kindly guide me to get the best type of libraries management and to solve this problem.regards!EDIT: Here is 3D photos of this project showing the hole (the one which is alone, not that 6 pin connector):https://slow.pics/c/efjB4VBA

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2020, 04:08:21 pm
content: For anybody else wondering the dialog shown in the screenshot is reached via the "add footprint" button of pcbnew.QuoteWhat do you mean by that? There is not really a way to add a pad directly to a layout in KiCad (The file format has no option for it). One can only add footprints.If you mean you added a footprint then i can only imagine it vanishing on update from the schematic if it has no symbol as a counter part. In that case make sure to either include mounting holes in the schematic (also allows you to be remembered to buy mounting hardware by the BOM). Or lock the footprint to avoid it being replaced on update.QuoteThere is not really enough information to blame library management to be honest. I mean of course the error message could indicate that there is some illegal entry in the lib table that throws of KiCad but it could also be something else.A starting point would be to give us your version information such that we know what you are generally facing.And you can also try to open the footprint editor and check what happens if you try to open any footprint but in particular one from of the mounting holes.What i however notice is that KiCad shows the mounting holes under the pin connector library which is not where i would expect them and the error message seems to indicate that it looks under yet another library.You can therefore also double check the nickname row in your library table (via the lib manager) and check if any of the entries has a non ascii character. This is however just a guess as i never dared to try a non ascii char for a lib name so i have no idea if they really pose a problem (my general rule is to never use non ascii in any filename or other identifier)A space character would also be something to be mindful of.

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2020, 08:17:05 am
content: I used mounting holes library to put a pad. then I changed the size of it, then made it mechanical instead of through hole.. so now it is just a hole in the PCB without any connection or so.However, sometimes I try to access some libraries and I cannot. It cannot load them, but some other time it can.I re-added it again last night and will see today what is the situation. I will try to lock the pad too.
KiCad 5.1.6 released - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2020, 03:57:35 pm
content: In case anyone missed it, KiCaD 5.1.6 was just released. I recommend updating as it fixes a relatively large number of bugs.https://kicad-pcb.org/blog/2020/05/KiCad-5.1.6-Release/

author: ivi_yak
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2020, 09:06:26 pm
content: thx God

author: MarkR42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2020, 08:50:24 am
content: I'm sure it's a good choice in general, but I've been using unsable (nightly) versions of Kicad for a while, and it's much better:* They changed the user interface dramatically in the schematic editor, it now behaves more like other programs (click-select etc)* The PCB editor has various auto-routing / constraint resolving modes - "shove" other traces out of the way. These are super awesome if doing a very tight board.Of course running the unstable nightly version has a lot of drawbacks, such as compatibility, and it sometimes crashes!

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2020, 05:47:45 pm
content: Recommending nightlies of a program (any program) to people not acquainted to it is simply a bad Idea. Especially for a program which receives so many changes (all improvements of course) as KiCad.
GetTickCount64 Error - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bostonman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2020, 03:12:06 pm
content: Last night I downloaded and installed KiCAD on an XP machine and get the error:The procedure entry point GetTickCount64 could not be located in the dynamic link library KERNEL32.dllDoes anyone know why I'm getting this error and how I can fix it?

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 12, 2020, 03:46:55 pm
content: It's a 32-bit XP and you downloaded a 64-bit KiCAD?

author: bostonman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2020, 04:02:30 pm
content: No, it was 32..... it would have given me an install error if I tried installing 64 bit.

author: golden_labels
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2020, 04:48:29 pm
content: KiCAD requires Windows 8.1 or later, so it’s quite possible it uses function that wasn’t present back then. MSDNclaimsGetTickCount64was introduced in Windows Vista, which fits that hypothesis — though it isn’t a strong argument, because Microsoft has a history of introducing false information into MSDN that would hamper attempts to maintain software on old systems.
Some KiCad scripts I wrote - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: FloridaMan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 24, 2020, 03:21:31 pm
content: First new topic here. Second post. I'm a bit of a Luddite when it comes to the state of things with PCB design and someone suggested that I post here on your forum some of the things that I've written. I had been running a commercial version of Eagle 4.16r2, but when I went to renew, I found that Autodesk wanted me to subscribe to a cloud-based subscription model. And well, they can go piss up a rope. EAGLE was only good enough to keep me from writing my own product.Anyhoo, I did much of my EAGLE stuff from the keyboard and wrote add-ins to allow for automated PCB design and have gone down that path again for KiCad. I'm no KiCad expert, and I know there are correct ways of writing extensions for KiCad that add toolbar buttons and such, but I just wanted to be able to align components easily on my boards, or put a pinout table on my silk screen. I've also developed tools for declarative schematic, symbol and package designs as well that I haven't added to my github repo.

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2020, 01:35:46 am
content: KiCad already has alignment (and distribution) features build in:select the things you want to align, right click -> align/distribute and choose your alignment or distribution option (The last thing you selected will be used as the reference for alignment. For distribution the "extreme" positions will be used as the references).
Editing part description -- new user - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 06:37:27 pm
content: I just installed KiCad, mainly for schematic capture for discrete and vacuum-tube circuits.I started by generating new symbols for my intended vacuum tubes. I started by creating a new library (since I don't have permission to save to the supplied directory), opening a similar part, and did "copy as" to a new part name (e.g., 6AK5). I then made required changes to the symbol (mainly pin numbers). However, the description (second item on the menu, after "6AK5", such as "pentode" or "dual triode" remained on the file. I need to change some of them (especially ones that specified power level, and I generated a dual-diode from a dual-triode part). I can't find a way to edit that field, pending arrival of a textbook. Any information?

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 06:49:49 pm
content: in the symbol editor:edit / propertiesor the 'edit symbol properties' in the icon-bar

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 06:58:05 pm
content: Thanks. As normal with new (to me) software, I had to look around to find the correct edit tab. Works now.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 04:44:57 pm
content: When starting with KiCad, I recommend to do a few small projects to get the feel of it. And only then start putting effort in porting custom libraries.The built in "help" files are quite good, and the latest and best up to date tutorials and help files are on the "FAQ" section of the KiCad forum, and it even has a separate entry as index:https://forum.kicad.info/t/start-here-frequently-asked-questions/8890
KiCAD keep dead copper - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 28, 2020, 05:23:08 am
content: Is there a way to keep unconnected copper when doing polygon pour?

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2020, 06:35:20 am
content: https://gitlab.com/kicad/code/kicad/-/issues/4392has been set to be included in the release of V6, but right now its not properly supported, most of the push behind it came from differences when importing altium projects.

author: pierreraymondrondelle
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2020, 10:27:58 am
content: if I'm correctly understanding what you want to do, you might put a via to the GND on the second copper zone then drill it after the PCB is finished.
FOSDEM 2020 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2020, 10:08:53 am
content: live-stream from FOSDEM now ongoing:https://live.fosdem.org/watch/h2213schedule:https://fosdem.org/2020/schedule/track/open_source_computer_aided_modeling_and_design/kicad-talk in abt. 2 hours or so..
RF tools plugin for KiCad - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 08:36:23 am
content: Hi,found this in my Youtube recommendations this morning, looks interesting:https://youtu.be/LDblUeaB7_sThis is the github link:https://github.com/easyw/RF-tools-KiCADHas anyone here come across this already and maybe used it in a project?

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 08:59:45 am
content: seen it discussed over on kicad's forum, mostly its substituting out traces for footprints with the shape of a trace, you could already build very complex footprint pad shapes in kicad, this tool automates that for specific things,V6 will have most of this geometry available for traces out of the box, this is a nice workaround for now that should be fine to use,

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 22, 2020, 12:13:13 pm
content: Quote from: Rerouter on October 14, 2019, 08:59:45 amNo footprints involved, as far as I can see. Regular traces all along. It worked quite well for me. I used corner rounding, soldermask expansion and the via fence generator in a small project, worked very nicely.
How to set adding symbol fields defaultly? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: INBEOM
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 20, 2019, 08:33:01 am
content: Dear. everyone.This topic is my first in forum.i want to set variety fields in symbol data defaultly.For example, Price, maker, size.....Etc.How to set adding symbol fields defaultly?I dont want to set whenever projects.

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2019, 09:06:14 am
content: Your question can be read in different ways. Everything below is valid for version 5.1.xIf you want to have the fields pre filled before placing the symbol, then simply add these fields to your symbols in your personal library. See section "Adding user fields for better BOM output" ofhttps://forum.kicad.info/t/tutorial-how-to-make-a-symbol/13336/3---If you just want the fields available in the schematic to be filled at schematic entry time then use tools -> edit symbol fields. There is a add symbol button found under the list of fields. You can even fill this new field in the spreadsheet like entry section of this tool.

author: pierreraymondrondelle
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2019, 01:59:30 pm
content: Hi,In addition to the original post, there are other needs to work on a group of parts, in particular adding and modifying fields for a group of symbols.- In eeschema, managing fields can partly be done with "Edit Symbol Fields" but existing fields can neither be removed nor edited; e.g. errors can't be corrected.- When visibility needs to grouply be toggled on or off: for example, footprints are appearing per default on the sheet. They are usually not desired and the visibility option needs to be toggled separately for each component.- On top of that, working on a library would also be useful. Let assume that symbol pins are judged too long for the user's application. Reducing manually of 1.27mm all the pins of a bunch of symbols is an exhausting task. Automating the task is a real plus.- Extending the question to footprints: Let assume that single sided PCBs are nominal for the production of simple boards. PTH are not needed, Reducing their dia is as painful as reducing pin length on symbols.Until now, I did this for some componente but I quickly gave up for a complete board. As far as I know, there aren't any option nor plugin dealing with these specific needs.Regards
Kicad 5.1.5 how to import footprint changes from PCBnew to Eeschema - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2020, 11:58:16 am
content: Guys, my question is simple. When I change a package association in the PCBnew (right click on component, change footprint), how do I import this change to Eeschema?Is it even possible?

author: frozenfrogz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2020, 12:33:57 pm
content: PCBnew: File -> Export -> Footprint association file (.cmp)Eeschema: File -> Import -> Footprint association file

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2020, 07:25:22 am
content: Danke dir! / Thank you!
Measure distances between pins - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AxelVega
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 11:22:03 pm
content: Hi guys!!How can I know the distance of the pines of a component in the library of KiCad?

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 11:34:39 pm
content: I mouse over one pin, hit space to zero the relative position then mouse over the pin I want to measure.

author: AxelVega
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 22, 2019, 01:46:22 am
content: Quote from: james_s on September 21, 2019, 11:34:39 pmThanks Bro!

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2019, 08:41:18 am
content: Version 5 added the measure tool and snap to objects which should be even better than the old relative position tool.

author: jonroger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2019, 11:58:11 pm
content: This program helps if the purpose is to pick parts with the right spacing:https://www.compuphase.com/electronics/kicadlibrarian_en.htm

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2019, 12:17:16 pm
content: This is the workflow we use to check contributions to the official libraryhttps://forum.kicad.info/t/how-to-check-footprint-correctness/9279If you need to only check a small number of distances then the measure tool plus snap to object should be good enough. (The main benefit of the workflow with freecad is that you can make nice documentation.)Edit: well i did not notice that this was a quite old post that was warmed up by @jonroger. So sorry for continuing to keep this topic warm.
Can't Connect Pads on Same Net - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: braddrew0
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2019, 05:41:43 am
content: Hi Guys,Struggling with KiCad (pcbnew). I can't connect two pads on the same net. I understand that it's likely a design rules violation but I'm unsure which rule is the problem (nor whether I can change it). The first picture shows what happens when I try to connect from an outside pad to the offending one, the second shows when I try to connect in reverse. The footprint is for a CUI RCA connector (footprint sourced from EasyEDA via Digikey) and I have a ground plane on the bottom - so the pad should already be connected. I have other through hole components which have successfully connected to the ground plane - this is the only one I'm having any trouble with.Any ideas which setting is the likely offender?Thanks!Brad

author: EEEnthusiast
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2019, 06:05:55 am
content: Check the oblong pad if it has copper on both sides.Check if there is any keep-out zone surrounding the pad

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2019, 06:20:51 am
content: You could try and run "cleanup tracks and vias" tool as there might be a short track hidden somewhere. (could be caused byhttps://bugs.launchpad.net/kicad/+bug/1840177)If that does not fix the problem inspect the footprint. Maybe there is more than one pad at the place you try to connect.Another option is that the footprint somehow has something on the edge cuts layer (some footprint suppliers define oval holes that way. This would not be compatible with version 5 of kicad as edge cuts are taken into account for DRC)

author: braddrew0
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2019, 06:29:12 am
content: Thanks guys - there were hidden edge cuts underneath the pads! Appreciate the help

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 24, 2019, 06:57:45 pm
content: Another possibility in general when running into something like this is a combination of settings:1. Snap to pad is disabled in preferences2. The grid is set too coarse for a gridpoint to coincide with the padThis can happen if you have the snap setting disabled and used the grid for positioning previously.