hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
HierPlace: Hierarchical component placement plugin - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 02, 2018, 01:38:27 am
content: I just saw this announced on the kicad.info forums... Sweet!https://github.com/xesscorp/HierPlaceTo install it on OS X. Unfortunately, the way KiCAD is currently bundled it needs to be reinstalled whenever KiCAD is upgraded.Code:git clone git@github.com:xesscorp/HierPlace.gitcd HierPlacesudo cp HierPlace.py /Applications/Kicad/kicad.app/Contents/SharedSupport/scripting/pluginssudo chown $LOGNAME:admin /Applications/Kicad/kicad.app/Contents/SharedSupport/scripting/plugins/HierPlace.pysudo chmod 755 /Applications/Kicad/kicad.app/Contents/SharedSupport/scripting/plugins/HierPlace.pyThen hit Tools => External Plugins... => Refresh Plugins, or restart KiCAD.
Local KiCad User Group (Switzerland) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: homebrew
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2018, 08:05:09 pm
content: Would anybody be interested in a local KiCad users group?I've experienced this type of community concept in terms of Linux user groups, which was always great fun.We had weekly meetings with one topic per evening presented by one of the members followed by discussions for the rest of the evening.For a KiCad user group, we could have a similar setup. There are many topics in PCB design that would be worth discussing and sharing. Such a group could also be a place for in-depth design reviews and general exchange on electronic design.As one general benefit, we could have recurring newbie evenings for hands-on introductions.What do you think?
Footprint with two equivalent pins problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ale500
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 06:35:00 am
content: I want to define a footprint with 3 pins, two of them are equivalent meaning I can connect on the pcb to any of them, they are connected internally.I defined a footprint that has 3 pads and numbered two of them with the same number "2". I assign this foot print to an existing component that has two pins and connect these two pins in the circuit (it is a button).The problem is that pcbnew still shows the airwires to the "unconnected" second pin (also numbered 2).Is there another setting that I have to apply to tell it that connecting to any of these pins is enough ?ANother related question: if I update a footprint how do I tell pcbnew to re-read the library ?thanks

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 07:10:17 am
content: In general i would assign them different pin numbers, and just reverse them as needed, If you make clear in your schematic icon that either orientation is fine, its just a case of flipping the component, updating the netlist and re-reading in pcbnew

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 03:25:16 pm
content: Last I knew you could not connect pins in the footprint. I'm not sure if this will change in V5. As far as I know you just connect them in the schematic and live with the DRC errors.
How to define these board edge holes. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: David Chamberlain
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 07:33:43 am
content: I'm working on a project where I would like to replicate the mounting like on this HopeRF module. Kind of a general design question but as I'm using KiCad I thought I would ask here. I don't even know what you call this.The idea is that the user can solder standard 2.54mm pitch pins to allow for through-hole breadboard applications OR design a PCB with SMD footprints and solder it down using the half round plated edge holes.I tried just adding a second row of holes to the edge, with the idea that when the board is panelized I can specify a v grove between them?So my real question is what's the best way to design / specify this kind of thing for manufacture?This is my attempt. It renders badly the way I'm doing it as well.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 08:29:07 am
content: They are called castellated vias. And you need to talk to your board manufacturer about this. Everyone has different requirements and not all of them will even try to make your boards. Also be prepared for a price increase.

author: David Chamberlain
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 08:51:35 am
content: Thanks for that. Knowing what they are called is key. The information of now flowing from the google.So i guess the followup question is has anyone done these in KiCAD and can recomend an approach.

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 09:51:21 am
content: Again, the best option will be talking to your board manufacturer,To build a castellation the edge needs to be exposed, before the plating pass, meaning atleast some level of routing prior to plating (Its roughly like how a plated slot is made)This out of order routing is what will generate extra costs,The other thing is making a clear description of what you want on a mechanical layer, and again in the notes to the fabricator. If your doing something weird, expect them to need guidance

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 01:11:43 pm
content: Quote from: Rerouter on April 23, 2018, 09:51:21 amthe plating is inside holes so the routing can be done last just like normal, afaiu the issue is that manufacturers will rather not routethrough copper

author: PCB.Wiz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 03:15:59 am
content: Quote from: David Chamberlain on April 23, 2018, 07:33:43 amThe idea is good, but you do not want a v Groove - the PCB is usually routed, to neatly cut-away half the hole.Talk to your PCB supplier. You may need to agree on some small burr, on the trailing cutter edge.
Eeschema auto pan speed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DanielSkevington
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 10, 2018, 04:56:04 pm
content: I have searched but couldn't find anything about this, apologies if I've missed it.When I am moving a block of objects, or placing a wire or symbol (or anything else for that matter) in eeschema, if my cursor reaches the edge of the window the program automatically pans in that direction, which is nice in theory but in reality the speed of the panning is so fast that it is basically unusable. Is there a way to change this behaviour? A google search and search of this forum didn't get me anywhere. I've looked through all the eeschema options/preferences and couldn't see it but that doesn't necessarily mean it isn't there...

author: saike
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2018, 05:31:34 pm
content: I resorted to modifying & recompiling the source code to get round this problem. A fairly easy task on Linux, possibly not so easy on a windows machine.If you want to try this I will see if I can remember which file the relevant code is in.

author: saike
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2018, 07:55:27 pm
content: For the source code downloaded sometime around the end of March 2018The relevant file isCode:kicad-source-mirror/common/view/wx_view_controls.cppThe pan function is calledCode:bool WX_VIEW_CONTROLS::handleAutoPanning( const wxMouseEvent& aEvent )Somewhere around line 563 is where the wx_timer is started that handles the auto pan speed.What is really needed is for this to be set from an external config file but this lack of configurability is something that seems like it will never be fixed in kicad it has been like this for many years.

author: DanielSkevington
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 10, 2018, 08:02:54 pm
content: Many thanks, I am on Linux as it happens so I will give that a go. Really appreciate the response, cheers!
I made a KiCad download mirror, thanks to Sourceforge - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tedd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 13, 2018, 04:19:05 am
content: A server of mine does an rsync ofhttp://downloads.kicad-pcb.organd uses Sourceforge's download mirror network for faster downloads.The rsync happens every 12 hours, for timely nightly downloads.https://sourceforge.net/projects/kicad-download-mirror/files

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 16, 2018, 01:23:53 am
content: Doesn't seem to have run in a month.

author: tedd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 27, 2018, 03:54:09 am
content: Quote from: bson on March 16, 2018, 01:23:53 amApologies, bson. Sourceforge had disabled shell access while they were moving datacenters. They finally reenabled access today, but now I cannot resolve downloads.kicad-pcb.org from sourceforge's servers..Edit: aaand DNS is fixed but I'm not allowed to make outgoing connections any more. And they've broken access to ssh again.. WTH is going on with Sourceforge?I'll definitely update manually if version 5 comes out before this is all fixed.
Putting components on both sides of a board - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rrinker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2018, 06:20:37 pm
content: Thought I'd ask, maybe this is just as obvious as it seems, or maybe there are some traps.My project is something I would like to put in an enclosure. As such, there is a ZIF socket, a couple of LEDs, and a switch I would want to be on one side of the board, so they protrude through the cover, but other components, such as a power connector, resistors for the LEDs, would go on the opposite side. No, there would not be any major overlap where the component on one side would obscure the pins of the component on the other side. Or I suppose I could just make 2 boards and connect them together, there's nothing high speed that would cause problems with a few wires joining the two boards - maybe that's the easiest approach. Hmm, just thinking out loud typing this makes me realize putting parts on both sides is probably not the best way to handle this.

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2018, 08:33:36 pm
content: There is no reason why you can't put parts on both sides of the board.If you were having the boards assembled by a contract manufacturer, you should consult with them to see if they have any caveats, preferences or show-stoppers. But my guess is that this is something you'll build yourself.

author: rrinker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2018, 09:12:43 pm
content: This is just a one-off for myself. It's simple enough to just point to point wire, but I thought it might be good practice to lay out a board and have one made.

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2018, 03:44:16 am
content: Putting parts on both sides is perfectly fine.

author: Deridex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2018, 05:41:34 pm
content: The only reason, that i know, why i have to avoid putting components on both sides at work, is that additional costs when a supplier has to manufacter the whole board. So i think it's absolutly fine.

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2018, 05:56:02 pm
content: When a board includes both SMD and thru hole components it can present challenges if they are mounted on both sides. Either selective fountain soldering, glue, or PIP are used but they all have limitations/downsides.
Duplicate / Identical layout blocks? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2018, 02:52:07 pm
content: I have probably too many projects on the list at the moment, but...I'm making a 3 stereo input audio mixer. I have a hierarchical sheet containing 3 LineInputStage schematics.I found I could get them all refer to the same underlying sheet and can still be annotated globally. I haven't tried wiring them up yet though.Anyway, my question.Is there currently any sensible way to manage these groups in PCBNew? When I import the netlist it correctly places all three sets of components on the board. However it would be "nice" if I could create a layout for one of them, then duplicate it to complete the other two.Googling reveals this was not available in past versions but it's harder to find if it exists in newer versions.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2018, 04:03:49 pm
content: Quote from: paulca on February 25, 2018, 02:52:07 pmhttps://github.com/tlantela/KiCAD_layout_cloner/blob/master/layout_cloner.pyit takes a bit of manual text editing but it does work

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2018, 06:31:07 pm
content: Thanks. A quick read of the code and I can see how it works.The limiting factor is that it won't support updates. Once generated via the script any update would need done to each manually, or... delete and reduplicate.But it is a working solution, thanks.

author: MitjaN
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2018, 12:34:29 pm
content: If you use nightlies you can tryhttps://github.com/MitjaNemec/Kicad_action_plugins.Either way, there is a list of third party solutions available at:https://github.com/xesscorp/kicad-3rd-party-toolsAlso posting onhttps://forum.kicad.info/might get you additional solutions, whch can be more to your liking.
DRC Unconnected Issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2018, 10:08:24 am
content: Can anyone explain why KiCad thinks this pad is unconnected?You can see the rat nest line going down to the IC +5V net. However it is securely connected to the +5V net on the LEDs adjacent to it. It is in a row of 6 LEDs and the others all seem fine. I have remade both the connection on the LED and on the IC but the error will no clear.Also, I assume connecting an SMD IC's ground to the back plain with an orphaned Via is acceptable?

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2018, 10:58:53 am
content: I've seen similar things, the DRC just thinks your net is broken somewhere along the line. Redrawing it piece by piece is a 'stupid' solution but seems to work. Particularly if you redraw/edit things a lot, or re-name on the SCH-side and import a new netlist to PCB this tends to happen...sorry not much of a solution here.. just a feature not a bug

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2018, 11:05:42 am
content: Yea, I figured it was just a bug/feature. Assuming the manu leaves copper there it will be connected.

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2018, 11:09:14 am
content: Beware that the air-wire is not necessarily where the problem is - KiCad draws the shortest line connecting isolated nets, the problem could be somewhere else.Also worth noting is that the "new" canvas has different code to the legacy canvas, and there have been some bugs with the connection algorithms.

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2018, 11:11:51 am
content: Ah... yes...I found a whole section of +5V net unconnected, half the board! "Highlight Net" comes in handy for that
Spice simulator question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: seec
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 06, 2018, 11:35:07 am
content: do somebody know how to place the inductance interaction in a pspice style <K1 L1 L2 0.98> in Eeschema editor? (KiCAD Nightly Development Build)

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2018, 12:49:44 am
content: If you're asking what I think you are asking, hover over the device and chose edit or click e. There should see a section to 'edit spice model' or something similar.

author: seec
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 14, 2018, 05:10:37 am
content: i mean two independent inductances with two independent spice models...i try append +SPICE K1 L1 L2 0.98 in the text field - looks like not working

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2018, 02:45:06 pm
content: You need to open the part using the edit feature I mentioned above. You will see another button to edit the spice symbol. There might be other ways to do it but this one should work.
KiCAD FOSSDEM 2018. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2018, 09:54:55 pm
content: From this years FOSSDEM.https://video.fosdem.org/2018/K.4.201/cad_kicad_v5.mp4Alexander.

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2018, 06:03:26 am
content: Posted also on the FOSDEM Youtube channel, if you prefer so:(Wayne Stambaugh, KiCad Version 5 New Feature Demo)

author: Deridex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2018, 06:12:32 pm
content: Damn ... i'm impressed!

author: PChi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2018, 08:24:05 pm
content: I am also impressed. The ability to cross probe when selecting a net in the schematic also highlights the net in the layout is useful. Also transparent mode is handy.When implemented having a single file define the board for manufacture that's not in a proprietary format is wonderful.

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2018, 12:51:07 pm
content: I expected more on vias stitching. Nevertheless, it is great. I switched to KiCad and don't regret.The next step is getting rid of Windows
Copying schematic blocks between projects in 4.0.7 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fourtytwo42
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2018, 11:58:42 am
content: Sometimes I re-organise whats going to end up on what board or I have some generic stuff in another project I want to simply re-use so I like to be able to copy blocks of schematic from one project to another.Unfortunatly in KiCad I cannot find a simple way to do this, it doesnt seem to have a cross project cut-n-paste facility or am I missing something ?Sorry if this question is already here somewhere, I searched but didn't find!

author: fable
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2018, 12:16:43 pm
content: This is how I do it.First create new sheet, enter it and go File >append schematic sheet and select sch you want to copy from. Select part of schematic you want to use rightclick and chose "save block" go back to sheet where you want to paste it and click briefcase icon i upper left.Sorry for my bad English

author: fourtytwo42
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2018, 01:29:26 pm
content: Quote from: fable on January 29, 2018, 12:16:43 pmThat worked perfectlyMany thanks
PWR_FLAG vs input pin on 4027 JK FF - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2018, 12:35:48 pm
content: I've got a 4027 which I've tied both Sd to ground on. gnd is marked with PWR_FLAG. This is an input pin in theory but the ERC is showing error as follows:Schematic:In theory the Sd pin should be both grounded and both inputs.Any ideas how to proceed on this one to pass the ERC? Is this a bug in the symbol i.e. the pin should be an input?

author: fable
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2018, 01:34:03 pm
content: Edit library... Change the state of that pin

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2018, 01:54:05 pm
content: That did the trick. Bug in kicad library then!Thank you

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2018, 04:35:03 pm
content: Quote from: bd139 on January 18, 2018, 01:54:05 pmThe fact you ground them for your application doesn't make this a bug. The data sheet I'm looking at says "1SD, 2SD9, 7 asynchronous set-direct input (active HIGH)". Why would the library list it as a power pin?

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2018, 06:00:50 pm
content: https://www.intersil.com/content/dam/Intersil/documents/cd40/cd4027bms.pdfPage 6. IC schematic. Definitely inputs. Were marked as outputs in library.

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2018, 08:33:21 am
content: I found several issues like this when I reworked the CMOS library, it should be fixed in the latest version.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2018, 01:23:15 pm
content: Cool. Thank you
No option for placing via's - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aiq25
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2018, 10:52:32 pm
content: Hi. I'm working on an LED board and I have the top and bottom layers all laid out but I can't find an option to add a via to connect some of the traces together. Sorry I'm new to KiCad (and PCB design). When I go under "Place" menu I don't see via option there, adding a trace option is there. I'm using KiCad version 4.0.7.Any help would be greatly appreciated.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2018, 11:15:40 pm
content: I'm using an older nightly build on Debian Linux. When running a trace I press v and a via pops up. A left click places it and starts routing the track on the far side of the board. There is also an icon on the right tool to choose a via if you aren't routing a track. Again, this is for the development build that is in 'freeze' and is destined to be V5. The debate rages on about how long that will be as well as if you are starting out now is it stable enough to just start with it.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 17, 2018, 04:51:24 am
content: One reason some people are jumping to the dev version at this point is that the library structure is revamped. Bringing projects from 4 to 5 has been a problem for some. Like I said. There is debate. I was just throwing it out there for the OP. Since the OP has only to figure out vias it probably isn't of that much interest to them for THIS board.

author: aiq25
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 06:07:43 pm
content: Thanks for the replies. I was able to figure it out. You need to select start a track/via in order to put a via... DOH!

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 04:54:26 pm
content: For stitching you can also just place a via anywhere in empty space outside the board, then edit it (E key) and set the net to ground or whatever you're stitching. Choose the dimensions also if needed. OK the dialog. Right click the via and make an array. Then drag and drop from the array to your board to stitch. If you need more, when you're down to 1 left make another array. Then when done delete the leftovers. (Thismayrequire v5.) Don't forget to refill the zones (B). It also helps if you hide the fills (there's an icon for it on the left side) so you can see what's underneath, before you drop stitches all over. Don't ask how I know!I like to set the grid a bit coarse when stitching so the vias line up - pure vanity.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 05:27:12 pm
content: I believe stitching is better supported in 5. If I drop a via between planes it just seems to connect. Using an old nightly/development version so don't quote me too much on this one.
KiCad Panel Appending Eagle PCB Problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: t1d
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 06:30:09 am
content: I am creating a panel, in Kicad. I am appending it with boards created in Eagle. I am receiving the following notice:Error loading board.IO_ERROR: Unknown file typefrom legacy_plugin.cpp : checkVersion() : line 571I am guessing that I need to change the footprint designation in Eagle to something else. But, what and how?I did not find it in the manual and Google let me down.Please explain the problem and give me detailed instructions on how to correct it.Thank you.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 07:32:30 am
content: I think the coming version of Kicad will import Eagle files directly. What version of Kicad are you using? There are several scripts currently for importing boards that I just saw mention of on the Kicad forum.

author: t1d
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 08:36:56 am
content: I am using KiCad 4.0.7, which is the newest, I think. It does append Eagle footprint files, but only with a particular designator. The "Legacy" designator is the problem. I need to know how to change it in Eagle. At least, that is what I think is going on. I'm not sure, so I asked for help.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 05:10:13 pm
content: https://forum.kicad.info/t/open-sch-in-kicad/8775/7Check out post 7."You could also tryhttps://github.com/bobc/eakit, I think it is the best Eagle to KiCad converter but then I wrote it :slight_smile: However, it does have some features others lack."If you don't get your answer here you might try there. Someone like BobC that wrote the import script might have a better handle on what's going on.

author: t1d
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 07:27:15 pm
content: Thank you, good sir; your program seems to have been the cure, for the ills! I am most impressed and grateful! Kudos!

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2017, 09:08:12 pm
content: Just to be clear, I didn't write that. My coding skills are just barely this side of non-existent.
Kicad 3d preview part misalignment - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2017, 03:09:36 pm
content: Plopped a SOT-23 on my board. In 3d preview mode it is shown misaligned. Can this be fixed?

author: fable
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2017, 03:21:59 pm
content: After last update all my boards have the same problem.i solve it by replacing new 3d model with old one.

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 25, 2017, 04:16:59 pm
content: Select footprint -> Edit -> 3D Options

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 22, 2018, 11:15:44 am
content: Nightly build? If so, wait for it to get fixed in a day or two...

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2018, 03:50:36 pm
content: Historically, 3d models were created with non-standard scale, origin or orientation and this was corrected for in the footprint definition. However it was decided to standardise the footprint and 3d models, so that they have the same standard parameters. Because 3d models and footprints are in different files, they became out of step. People who get the footprints via github plugin find that the footprints are updated but not the 3d models.Therefore, if you can use the latest 3d models and the latest footprints they should be in sync.
Fender 5 way switch symbol - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HoracioDos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2017, 02:09:51 pm
content: Hello!I'm looking for a Fender 5 way switch symbol. Acording to this article it’s a 2-pole 3-way switch.http://alloutput.com/guitar/5-way-switches-explained/Does anybody know where can I find a switch library for this one?Thanks in advance!

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 23, 2017, 02:34:39 pm
content: Why don't you make your own?The schematic symbol wouldn't take more than a pair of minutes.For the footprint you NEED to now the actual switch you will use.

author: HoracioDos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2017, 03:14:16 pm
content: Quote from: ElektroQuark on November 23, 2017, 02:34:39 pmI built this switch according to the article. Is it correct to have pins with duplicate names?

author: alexanderbrevig
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2017, 03:54:00 pm
content: Same name is fine, in this case they should not be the same pin number, aka the same net.So, you would have pin 1 through 8, and indicate their association by name.Looks good to me
Copper fill clearance - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ilium007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 10:26:24 am
content: Hi - I am designing my first board in KiCAD 4.0.7. It is a board for an MCP23017 IC with some headers and an I2C level converter circuit.I have noticed in the 3D render that with the default copper zone clearance setting of 0.254mm leaves all my 0805 SMD pads with their corner solder masks clipped as shown below.If I increase the copper fill clearance to 0.508mm it seems too much. Is there a standard for this sort of thing ?

author: ovnr
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 10:40:17 am
content: Re: your first image with 0.254mm clearance: This is fine. The holes are small enough that they won't show up in practice - the solder mask process doesn't have that kind of resolution, at least at the "cheap PCB" level.I should note that I run with 0.025mm clearance on my own exports - enough for the fabs to get the hint that they shouldn't go nuts (like when you have zero clearance), but they'll increase it to whatever they need for manufacturability reasons. I've never had registration issues where the mask ended up on the pads.

author: ilium007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 10:41:34 am
content: Quote from: ovnr on November 19, 2017, 10:40:17 amThanks - I am going to se Osh Park for these first boards.This is what I get when I drop the clearance to 0.025mm - this looks like I may end up with solder bridging (hand soldering these first boards).

author: ovnr
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 11:12:17 am
content: Bit of a brainfart, sorry. I meant solder mask clearance, not copper fill clearance. That should stay at 0.2-0.25.

author: ilium007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 11:13:14 am
content: Ok - I'll take a look at solder mask settings. Haven't played with those yet !

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2017, 09:19:16 pm
content: The 3D tool is excellent and this may well be a fair representation of what you will get but gerbers are the final word. Defaults are just starting points.
Kicad Font on Schematics/PCBs - is it possible to alter this? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Chris56000
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2017, 11:49:59 pm
content: Hi!At the risk of getting many not-pleased comments in reply, I have tried the current versions of KiCAD and I have to confess the style of it's "system font" on the schematics doesn't really appeal to me!I was born in 1961 and learnt electrical/electronic engineering at a time when nearly all circuit-diagrams were annotated with stencilled letters, and in fact I have a British-made UNO stencil that produces 1960s style upright "Practical Wireless" lettering - is there anyone who's more expert on the KiCAD source code than I am can give me an insight into the "system font" is coded and what's involved in modifying it please, then recompiling it to make my own "Practical Wireless" style KiCAD?Chris Williams

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2017, 12:28:25 am
content: That is likely going to be a bit complicated - the font used is not a normal TrueType font. These are so called "stroke" fonts, drawn out of individual lines. There is one hard-compiled in the source code.You may want to look at the files ./include/newstroke_font.h, ./common/newstroke_font.cpp (that's where the font is actually stored) and helpers/tools_to_build_newstroke-font folder which has a tool to compile a new font.(this is from the latest KICAD compiled from source, the older stable version may be different!)

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2017, 04:09:31 pm
content: Hi Chris,just to add my two cents - the font and the old-school user interface of KiCad works for me very well (*1986). It reminds me of CR5000 schematic editor which is the best schematic editor I've ever used. I use AD17 professionally and the default Times New Roman in the schematic editor drives me insaneSorry for the OT. I could not resist.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2017, 05:06:35 pm
content: I seem to remember the fonts being drawn out as individual lines on the PCB side had to do with some of the places doing cheap pcbs have trouble with actual fonts. That's why the individual lines. It also complicates things like doing round holes that aren't a drill size. Basically this approach minimizes the chance a board manufacturer will complain. I'm not sure if the problem still persists today or if this is a legacy fix to a legacy problem. This leads to people drawing shapes in outside software such as FreeCAD and them importing them into the board.

author: Chris56000
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2017, 09:14:20 am
content: Hi!QuoteI entirely agree on this point - in fact I believe Chris Schroder's book on 1980's book on Orcad Schematic Capture specifically stated in his opening chapter that "Serifs and other embellishments have no place on a technical drawing."Chris Williams
Changing footprints - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2018, 05:45:04 pm
content: I made a schematic and assigned my foot prints, ran PCBNew and discovered I'd used a horizontal LED footprint.I switched back to CvPCB and changed the footprints of all 16 LEDs.They won't update in the PCB editor though. I deleted the PCB file completely and remade it and... still has the old horizontal LED footprint.Any ideas?

author: paulca
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2018, 05:48:01 pm
content: Ooops. Quitting out of Kicad and running it again and the footprints have updated.

author: vltr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2018, 05:53:02 pm
content: When you change footprints you will need to export the netlist again from the schematic editor, then import the netlist again into PCBNew. Also make sure the exchange footprint is set to change otherwise it will ignore the new footprint.

author: apurvdate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2018, 05:17:44 am
content: You can change the footprint in PCBnew itself. Just tap E keeping mouse on the footprint.After the edit, export "Component .cmp file" from PCBnew & import it into EeSchema that'll update footprint association in schematic (similar to back annotate).If you proceed with regular CvPcb method, do generate new netlist , read it in PCBnew & remember to check "Exchange Footprint" option to "Change" while reading netlist.
KiCad 4.0.7 Creating Libraries Tutorial Created plus Questions I need help with  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jakeisprobably
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 05:06:43 pm
content: Hello All,I didn't create this thread for a rant or discussion of the merrits or weaknesses of OSS.Like many others I discovered how creating a duplicate part/new library takes around 20-30 steps. Something, I think most CAD software does with a "Create Library" and "Create Component" button.This workflow complexity is mildly annoying for someone to learn if they are going to use the software regularly. However, for the casual user that is not able to familiarize themselves with a detailed workflow the problem is quite difficult. When combined with alterations to the workflow that do not simplify it, such as is the case with library creation (the removal of the "Set Component Libraries" button) this becomes a real hurtle for new users.I watched 4-5 tutorials on how to create a new library/component. Every one that I watched was either unclear or contained variations between the software menus they used and my 4.0.7 version of KiCad on Ubuntu 16.04.After several tries I finally managed to create a component/library, but it took me hours to figure it out, probably because I'm dumb. I know that I will not remember such a process if I don't use it regularly. So I made a quick personal reference here (none monotized):https://youtu.be/gt71PXhU3m0If there is a faster way please let me know. I simply needed to alter the pin orientation of an ATmega MCU to match another person's OSHW schematic configuration.I found aHTML toolto generate a component where, after uploading the part/library, I can alter the pins and buses to match the other schematic. I think this will allow me to recreate another schematic visually, but I don't believe this type of component will have any funtionality in the other parts of KiCad outside of eschema. Am I correct here? Also, is it impossible to modify the pin orientation of components like an ATmega MCU in KiCad/Eschema? I haven't been able to accomplish this. I have edited them after copying and saved them in a new library but they retain the old pin configuration in eschema every time I add them.Another hardware tool I found is here:https://m8051.blogspot.in/2012/02/kicad-schematics-library-generator-in.html?m=1Some of the tutorials I found helpful for Components/Libraries (no affiliation):https://youtu.be/9hvBvGFBilwhttps://youtu.be/aqxM0RT053A-Jake

author: jancumps
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 05:56:56 pm
content: Dave Vandenbout of XESS has created a tool called KiPart. You create a spreadsheet with a list of the pins (often can be copied from the datasheet) and it generates a lib + component.I use it for anything that has 6 pins or more ...
schematic question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: stj
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2017, 01:26:46 am
content: can you grab a wire and bend it - rubber band style??like putting a bend into a previously straight trace??i can do this with Eagle, but cant seem to do it with Kicad.this function is essential when making large schem's because you sometimes have to shift a block around and need to cleanup the traces afterwards.

author: stmdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2017, 09:34:47 am
content: You can't put more "bends" into a schematic wire, but you can grab a component or block, press "g" and drag it around, with the wires still attached. This usually creates diagonal wires though, so there's some cleanup to do afterwards.If you have big blocks you want to move around, might I suggest that you look into hierarchical sheets?

author: stj
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2017, 10:56:00 am
content: i think i'll stick with (pre-takeover) Eaglecad.i need that function for my reverse-engineering.

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2017, 11:28:30 am
content: The schematic editor is somewhat primitive, proper rubber banding would be nice. There is a workaround, if you place a junction on a wire then you can drag the junction and the wires rubber band.

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2017, 03:09:11 pm
content: Maybe I misread the question but you can break a wire (mouse over, right click, break). After breaking you can grab (mouse over, press 'g') the wire and it has an extra segment.Just found out that you also can grab a bunch of wires by selecting them (left click, drag) and then pressing TAB while moving.
Schematic libraries and GitHub question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Dan Moos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2017, 07:22:49 pm
content: Maybe I suck a Google, but I just can't quite figure this out.Using 4.0.6 if it mattersI needed some schematic symbols that the core install didn't have, so I looked at the GitHub Kicad repo. I discovered there is allot more available than the core install gave me.Here's where I have difficulty. I swear I've read that you don't have to download everything, but that you can make the GitHub repo searchable from within Kicad, just as if it were stored on your computer. How do you set this up?I ended up downloading the whole shebang. I put it in its own folder, so as not to corrupt the one Kicad uses naturally.Another thing. I saw a YouTube video where the guy (Chris Gammel) clicked the "add library" box, and instead of a folder with filenames (what I get when I click it), he had a list of libraries, with check boxes. That's what I want! How'd he get that?I believe Chris is using Linux. I'm on Windows, so possibly that's part of it?If yer out there Chris, that video would have really benefited from not glossing over that bit!

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2017, 09:50:16 am
content: Quote from: Dan Moos on August 06, 2017, 07:22:49 pmI've never heard of that, I don't believe such a thing exists.QuoteThe Windows version is identical to the Linux version, I think, apart from file paths etc. However, Linux users often use the latest development build (aka nightly build) instead of stable release builds. The dev builds have a lot more features than the current stable release (4.0.6 at time of writing).

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2017, 02:45:32 pm
content: The library structure is a mess and everyone knows it. It is being worked on. On the KiCAD list today they said it might not be fixed in time for the 5.X release.Yeah, it should check the online repos. Some have trouble with that because it can take minutes. Some people think their system is plain hung. Much better off to have the whole thing local. At least the libraries you will be using.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2017, 11:58:18 pm
content: How to use libraries from Github can be seen here. That just seems to be footprints and not schematic symbols. I'm not sure the latter is possible, which is weird, but possibly due to the cobbled together nature of the different KiCad program parts.
Custom trace shape - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2017, 06:09:47 pm
content: After looking at basic layouts, I thought it might be fun to create a switching power supply. The datasheet of the part shows a fairly specific layout. I cannot seem to figure out how to make custom shapes like these. If I ask Google, it tells me how to change the trace width, but not the actual shape.One way of bodging it would be to make a custom footprint with at least the IC and the inductor, but that just seems a recipe for disaster. Even if I manage to work it out without half a dozen respins, I'm bound to have forgotten how to do it exactly when I try to reuse the design in the not so near future.I might be missing something obvious though, since I'm not very experienced with KiCad.Page 16 of this datasheet:http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/tps63002.pdf

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2017, 06:21:45 pm
content: How about "Filled Zones"?Alexander.

author: fable
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2017, 06:23:07 pm
content: There is no problem doping this in kicad...look for a "Add filled zones" tool

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2017, 06:29:17 pm
content: D'oh! I don't know how I missed that, despite actually doing some homework and looking for the answer myself. Searching for "traces" instead of "zones" or "areas" is probably what tripped me up.Color me embarrassed. Thanks for the quick answer!

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2017, 06:42:36 pm
content: Make sure to set priorities for the zone fills if you are using power planes.Alexander.
selecting all vias - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Dan Moos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 04:14:47 pm
content: lets say I want to change the properties of every via in a layout after the fact.surely I don't have to do them one at a time, right? Can't figure out how to select all vias

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 04:40:43 pm
content: KiCAD forum is pretty active. There are differences depending on what version you use. Sometimes things like this are done with scripts because everything is human readable. Even a text editor with search and replace might do this depending on what you need.

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 05:43:56 pm
content: Edit -> Edit tracks and vias

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 05:49:18 pm
content: Quote from: EdoNork on August 19, 2017, 05:43:56 pmWhat version? I'm using Debian stable and it has 4.0.5+dfsg1-4 and that isn't an option.

author: Dan Moos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 05:55:26 pm
content: I'm running 4.06 for Windows.No Edit -> Edit tracks and vias option for me either.I seriously hope I don't have to write a script to do such a simple task.

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 19, 2017, 06:49:40 pm
content: Sorry, I use nighties.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2017, 12:15:13 am
content: He got his answer on the KiCAD forum. There is an option but you have to have the routing option enabled to get to the menu.
Changes to track width set in Global Design Rules not showing. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PhilippeASP
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2017, 07:35:32 pm
content: I searched past threads for my problem and found a bunch of them referencing the "Global Design Rule" as the window in which I need to set my desired track width. I tried inputting the value I wanted in "Minimum Allowed Values" but changing those just gave me error messages (something about the set track width beind smaller than the minimum track width). So I set the custom track widths to my desired value.But whatever value I put it doesn't appear to update, neither in the 2D schematic, nor in the 3D viewer. The traces still show as being tiny. I ended up leaving too much spare space between my components, so I wanted to use thicker traces. Here are some screengrabs of my efforts:As you can see I set the width to 2 mm, and those resistors are 1206 surface mounts, so the traces he ended up using are seriously tiny.Also, this is my first time using KiCad, so it's possible I'm missing some obvious step.

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2017, 10:33:32 pm
content: Setting custom track widths just adds those widths to the "Track:" drop down menu, these can then be selected when creating a track instead of the netclass default (indicated by *).If you have already drawn tracks, I suggest changing the "default" netclass to your desired track width (Design Rules menu). Then right click on a track, select "Edit all Tracks and Vias". Use that dialog option "Set all tracks and vias to their netclass value".Note that if a segment of a track cannot be made larger due to clearance, it will not be changed. You might need to go round and redraw some parts.

author: PhilippeASP
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2017, 01:55:11 pm
content: Yes! Thank you. That's what I was looking for.I had found a way of setting wider, new tracks, but that meant erasing all my existing tracks and laying them down again. Doing it automatically is much more enjoyable.

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2017, 09:34:42 am
content: the other quick way to edit small areas is, if you pick a different via or trace size, you can press "e" while over the trace to update that segment,