hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Connecting pad to thermal pour - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: keethrax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 09:24:33 pm
content: I'm trying to put together a board using a Cree XP-G LED. It has a thermal pad (3 in image below) that I can't seem to figure out how to connect to anything in KiCad.If I add an LED to the schematic it only has the two connections (fair enough). I can then assign this as the footprint even though it has a third pad. But when I go to layout, I can't figure out how to make a pour that will connect to pad 3. When I use "Add filled zones" to create the pour, I get a message about "No net will result in an unconnected copper island" which is exactly what happens.Since the LED schematic symbol only has two connections, I don't know how to connect pad 3 to a net back in the schematic step which would presumably allow me to connect it to a pour in the layout step. Alternatively, I don't know how to force the pour to connect without pad 3 being on a net. What am I missing?

author: tox3
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 09:49:13 pm
content: You can change pin number of thermal pad to 1 or 2 on footprint to connect to one of the existing nets or you can create additional pin in schematic symbol of led with pin number 3.Hope this helps.

author: nali
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 09:50:16 pm
content: When editing your PCB layout you should be able to select the pad & hit "E" to edit the properties. You can then select the net (GND), plus also the connection type under the "Local clearance and Settings" tab. E.g. you might want to force a solid connection rather than thermal spokes to get the heat out depending on the layout requirements of that particular part.

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2019, 12:58:13 pm
content: I highly advice against the hack suggested by @nali. Do not manually change the net-assignments within the pcb as you will lose this information on your next "update from schematic"! It is very bad practice to have the schematic differ from the layout in part because of this (but also because the schematic is the documentation and your documentation should agree with your product.)Also KiCad version 5.1.4 (and newer, possibly also older) comes with a symbol LED_PAD which would be the perfect fit for your component.

author: nali
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2019, 01:35:52 pm
content: Yep that's better advice... ignore mine

author: keethrax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2019, 04:26:22 pm
content: Quote from: poeschlr on December 18, 2019, 12:58:13 pmI looked for a similar symbol but didn't know what it was called. Thanks! That solves my issue.
KiCad setup number of layers (missing options and menu) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gvz
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 02:58:34 pm
content: Hi,I am using KiCad 5.1.0 and I am struggling to understand how to setup the number of copper layers .It seems I don't have this option neither I have the Setup menu...

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 03:16:17 pm
content: Not sure about 5.1 but in 5.1.4:Menu File->Board SetupI believe one of the toolbar buttons opens the same dialog too.
Net ties in internal layers - or alternative - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ADJohnson
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2019, 03:39:26 pm
content: I couldn't find an answer to this but hopefully someone can give me a better workaround. I have a 4 layer PCB with a 2 post TH PCB terminal on the top layer. Pin 1 is -Ve (return to power supply). On the top layer I connect a ground trace to the pin - NET PWRGRND. On layer 2, I have a Ground plane which I want to connect at this pin. On layer 3 I have another Ground plane which I want to connect to this pin. The planes should NOT be connected to each other at any other location.Currently, I created a 3-pin NETTIE in the schematic and edited the footprint so that it had one SMD pad and two TH pads. I then connected the grounds to a seperate pin of the NETTIE. In the PCB this works: the SMD pad connects to the top trace, the other two pads route down the board and connect at each layer. I can edit the pads to give a solid connection (i.e. no thermal relief) which works for the TH but not the SMD pad for some reason - the copper fill just flows around it, attaching at one edge. Take a look at the image to see what I've currently got. Red is top layer, Yellow is layer 2, Pink is layer 3. The image was taken with layer 3 active; layer 2 pad is connected in exactly the same way to the yellow copper fill.It'll work, but what I really want to be able to do is just tie the grounds to the pin at each layer - almost like I want a NETTIE on the internal layers. I don't really want this NETTIE 'spur' on the top layer. I can reposition it, in that general area, and I suppose I could edit the footprint to make the connecting trace shorter.Is there a better approach?If not, is there a way to make pad 3 a solid connection to the copper fill?Thanks,Andrew

author: tox3
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2019, 06:16:56 am
content: Not sure if i understand your question, but you could put Net Tie inside your ground polygon on Top layer to avoid spur.And you can select pad and click 'E' to open pad properties, in Local Clearance and Settings tab you can change pad connection to solid.
How do I do round keepouts and filled areas on KiCad? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: technix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 31, 2019, 03:32:55 pm
content: As the title suggests, I need some round keepouts and round fills. As in, how Raspberry Pi did their mounting holes. Can it be done?

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 01, 2019, 03:56:09 pm
content: I'd try making a footprint. Add a single pad, type NPTH. Set the hole size to whatever you want to have drilled, set the pad size according to the amount of solder mask pullback you want to have.

author: technix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2019, 04:29:09 pm
content: Quote from: thinkfat on August 01, 2019, 03:56:09 pmThanks. I'll try this in my next Pi HAT (GPS HAT v2, which brings Pi native Bluetooth support by adding a I2C to UART interface chip.)
View Netlists - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PixieDust
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2019, 04:30:46 am
content: Hi,How do you view netlists in KiCAD? I can see the .net file in the tree, but there doesn't appear to be an editor available for it?

author: FrankBuss
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 21, 2019, 05:27:06 am
content: See "Inspect->List Nets" in pcbnew.

author: PixieDust
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2019, 05:31:14 am
content: Got it thanks!
How to customize your schematic symbols for KiCad - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: josiesnapeda
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 19, 2019, 05:52:59 pm
content: Hi, Kicad community! Based on popular demand that we got at Kicon, we released the ability to expand your symbol pins! Would love to know what you think!http://bit.ly/2OfV5O2

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2019, 07:43:47 pm
content: Please do not double post, it really annoys people.
Low cost KiCAD lessons and eBook - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 11, 2019, 07:46:12 am
content: I just found this:https://www.udemy.com/kicad-like-a-pro-2e/$9.9, comes with 17 hours of video plus a $35 (on Amazon) eBook.For those just getting into KiCAD like me.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2019, 08:40:39 am
content: That's not bad. I fudged through the tutorials which was good enough but not great and better than giving Autodesk any money
KiCad-BOM-reporter Version 1.3 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HendriXML
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2019, 09:35:55 pm
content: A new version ofhttps://github.com/HendriXML/KiCad-BOM-reporter/wiki/Screenshotswas released, a script/Windows tool that mediates between KiCad and Partkeepr and shows the BOM in different ways.This version supports matching footprints, so SMT and THT resistors can be matched differently. But also their sizes off course.Also it support an extra report that shows the BOM grouped/sorted by storage location.The new version also supports multi function parts (IC's). At such part the functions it contains can be mentioned. Like 2 AND ports and 2 OR ports. This information can be even used in matching. But is especially handy when generating descriptions as well.I think this version has matured enough to be of use to more people doing their design in KiCad.Feel free to ask questions, or to give your opinion.

author: HendriXML
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 09:45:54 am
content: The tool that runs the BOM script can also be used to perform project calculations and SCPI communication.When doing project calculations, the results can be written in a output file. If that file exist, the calculated values are shown in the designator report. In that way it is easy to check wether the schematic values differ from what was calculated.The method of calculating values I use is detailed and very structured (and therefore a bit time consuming). But it also results in good oversight in how values are derived. I know whether they, or the values they are based upon are chosen, calculated, taken from a datasheet etc. If something needs to be changed in the design its a lot easier to change the calculations as well and much more clear what to change. Sometimes all it takes is to let new values cascade trough the calculations.
Creating filled zones for thermal pads. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cbowen
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2019, 10:34:09 pm
content: Hey all. I've created a footprint for a SM LED that has 2 anode and two diode pads on each one. It also has a thermal pad on the middle underneath it, which I created as "pad 5". The problem is, when doing filled zone, I can't seem to find a way to select zone 5 as the net. I'm guessing this is because this pad has no traces connected to it. How would I go about getting pad 5 connected to the filled zone? Thanks everyone!

author: tox3
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 06:59:39 am
content: Check datasheet, where you can connect it. Usually ground. And then you will be able to create zone

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 01:11:06 pm
content: If you cannot connect the pad to ground, just make up a net name for it to connect to and use it for the copper fill.Gesendet von meinem Nokia 6.1 mit Tapatalk
Switching to KiCad, some questions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Curby
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2019, 12:37:55 pm
content: Hi,I'm using the current version of KiCad. Is there a way or a script to create independent libraries and footprints of the current project in the project directory? At the moment i do it by hand, copying every footprint, create an own librarys and redo the assignement.Is it possibile, to change the size of all references at one time to a different font size? Is there a possibility to create own layer and put them in the plot?Thanks a lot!

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 01, 2019, 06:08:52 pm
content: In pcbnew there's a menu option to Edit -> Edit Text & Graphic Properties... this will do it. Select what you want to change and enter new dimensions. If the current dimensions vary it box will say <...>; just enter a new value.

author: MitjaN
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2019, 08:41:48 am
content: Quote from: Curby on May 01, 2019, 12:37:55 pmTake a look athttps://github.com/MitjaNemec/Kicad_action_plugins#archive-project

author: mkschreder
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2019, 12:10:02 pm
content: Use kicad library utils. Its a set of pythons scripts that can load kicad files and manipulate them. They are completely independent from kicad.Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk
Glitch'ed up graphics on 3d mode  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kilroywashere
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2019, 04:41:45 pm
content: Hey i have really segmented graphics in 3d mode .... anyone know how i can fix it? or is this a hardware issue with my pc, its kinna old so maybe the graphics card is not good enough, or a driver is missing or something?

author: MarkF
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2019, 05:06:07 pm
content: I don't use KiCad.But in Diptrace, you can select between OpenGL, DirectX or Windows GDI.Maybe KiCad has a similar option???Or look for updated graphics drivers.

author: Bratster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2019, 06:24:28 pm
content: Kicad does have 2 or 3 different render modes.I don't remember offhand what menu it is under but I think it's one of the main ones on the main screen. Edit or view etc.Although that may not be for the 3d viewer, and only for pcb/schematicSent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2019, 06:52:14 pm
content: That looks like some kind of bug - either in the graphic driver or the KiCAD renderer. KiCAD uses OpenGL so make sure you have the latest driver.You may also try to update to KiCAD 5.1 if you don't have it already and see whether the bug disappears. I don't see this sort of issue, but I am in Linux, with a GeForce 1060, so that may not be comparable to what you have.

author: sethhillbrand
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 09, 2019, 06:31:42 pm
content: Are you running this over Remote Desktop?This type of display in 3D usually indicates that you have only OpenGL < 2.0 available.

author: Kilroywashere
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 13, 2019, 02:31:47 am
content: I have ... uhhhhh *cough fake* Windows.... so no updates for me .... i dont know how to upgrade openGL

author: MarkF
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 13, 2019, 04:05:49 am
content: OpenGL is part of the driver for your video card or built-in graphics on the motherboard.Just make sure your video drivers are up to date.If it's a real old machine, the OpenGL version you need may not be available.You might try this to find out what version you havehttp://realtech-vr.com/admin/glview

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2019, 12:49:37 pm
content: In Pcbnew (or Eeschema o most of the other sub programs), you can switch between openGL hardware rendering  and software rendering  These are also in the menu under "Preferences" and then Modern Toolset "accellerated or "Fallback".When I select "Fallback" in Pcbnew, it also uses that for the 3D renderer, because it renderes noticably slower.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2019, 03:35:46 pm
content: Quote from: Doctorandus_P on April 16, 2019, 12:49:37 pmThat's probably not relevant - the image OP has posted is from the 3D board viewer, not the board editor. The board editor likely works fine. The canvas switching you describe affects only the PCB editor, the 3D viewer will always use OpenGL.
5.1.0 released and available for download - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 14, 2019, 10:27:51 pm
content: http://kicad-pcb.org/blog/2019/03/KiCad-5.1.0-Release/

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2019, 11:20:47 am
content: Neat ! Can't wait to test it.

author: cowasaki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2019, 12:05:36 am
content: But I still can't get it to work!I really enjoyed version 4 and used it to have boards made. I get constant error about missing libraries and empty libraries, missing footprints, general crashes etc etc with version 5Why oh why can't there just be a script to install it whilst removing all trace of version 4? I'm spending maybe 3 or 4 times as long trying to get it to work as trying to remember how to use it!!Rant over.......Until I try all over again.

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2019, 03:36:15 am
content: Quote from: cowasaki on March 26, 2019, 12:05:36 amWhat OS do you use?

author: cowasaki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2019, 07:48:12 am
content: Quote from: Bassman59 on March 26, 2019, 03:36:15 ammacOSI got it nearly working to the point where I was able to design a board, populate it, lay it out and export the 3D image to fusion BUT I had to pick specific components that it was happy with. Lots of components are listed as folders but don’t exist or more so don’t have layouts. Things like a 6 pin 2.54 pitch header don’t exist and I cannot change a component without it crashing. I get strings of errors on startup now as well. I deleted a file that was recreated on startup and helped (df something. Can’t remember and I’m not at home) but still not fully working.It needs a oversight everything and install as if fresh option which copies data to a folder call maybe kicadold.I really like it but it’s become a nightmare to use.UPDATE: Well I've just completely re-installed my MacBook Pro..... KiCAD appears to be working so far. I will have a good look at version 5.1 tomorrow after I finish installing everything. It was worth doing anyway for space and removal of a lot of stuff I don't use. I'm hoping the Arduino IDE starts working properly too.
Flash Card CAF11-083 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fastlink30
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 09, 2019, 01:08:25 pm
content: Hi all,i need footprint, and if possible 3d of this flash card reader, looked around internet but found nothing for kicad, there are library ready for this component (or similar)?thanks

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2019, 06:21:40 pm
content: KiCad has a pretty good Footprint editor, which works fairly similar like the rest of KiCad.Getting to grips with it may take you one, or a few, hours, but after that you can draw footprints for components like this in 5 to 10 minutes if you have all the measurements available.Drawing such footprints is probably faster than (trying to) find them on internet, and has a much higher success rate.I never really understood why peope have such an aversion against drawing their own footprints.It's easy. Really.

author: fastlink30
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 10, 2019, 09:55:41 am
content: at the end i get similar footprint from snapeda and made some small modifications.problem is 3d model.
Via stitching not showing filled holes in 3D - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aiq25
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2019, 11:56:44 pm
content: Hello. I'm trying to stitch two traces sing 1.5mm via's with 1.1mm drill size. I created a pad for this but in 3D drawing it's showing the pads as holes that are not filled. Am I doing something wrong?Attached are some screenshots of the pad setting and the 3D rendering. I just want to make sure the via's are filled.

author: whalphen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2019, 12:46:41 am
content: Check to see if the holes get included in the Plate-Thru Holes drill file. If so, and if you have copper on both sides of the board at each hole, I think you'll be OK. The 3D rendering doesn't control what gets plated thru. The drill files do. The holes in the PTH drill file get drilled early in the process -- before the plate thru step. The holes in the Non-PTH drill file get drilled after the plating step. Besides being in the PTH drill file, there has to be copper on both sides of the board at the hole location for the plating process to work. If you're expecting the holes to be filled with metal, I don't think that's normally done. Check with the PCB manufacturer to see if they can fill the holes with metal.

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2019, 01:34:43 am
content: The 3D viewer doesn't "tent" vias, so what you see is perfectly normal (at least it works as intended). Stitching vias are just vias. Nothing special.Now if you are expecting to see not tented (meaning covered by solder mask), but rather filled vias, I don't think that's supported by the 3D viewer, and not sure this is supported by KiCad in general either (AFAIK you can only set a via as blind, buried or through-hole at this point). If anyone knows how to explicitely set a via as filled in KiCad, please let me know.And as whalphen said, not all PCB manufacturers can actually do that, and when they do, that can be a pretty expensive option. I'd suggest doing that only if you have a very good reason to, and then you'd have to instruct the manufacturer explicitely as it won't show in KiCad's output files (again AFAIK, if anyone knows how to, don't hesitate to mention it).

author: bpiphany
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2019, 04:36:38 pm
content: As pointed out, vias commonly aren't filled (or plugged). They are often small enough for the soldermask to cover them though.If you do not render the board or soldermask in the 3D-viewer you actually get a pretty good picture of where there is copper and not.

author: aiq25
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2019, 01:40:25 am
content: Thank you for the replies. I thought they would be filled but it makes sense now.We used plated through filled via's at work and I just realized those are set separately and are called out in our drawings. The via's in this design doesn't need to be filled, I'm mostly experimenting.
How to swap/copy layers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 06, 2019, 06:55:57 am
content: So, as per my latest EMC video I have a 4 layer board with planes in the inner two layer. How do I swap these to the outer layers?I can't see a way to change the stackup layers.I can't even see an easy way to manually copy and paste all the traces from one layer to another. Highlighting gets all the pads and vias etc, I just want the copper traces in order to copy/paste them to another layer.What am I missing?Thanks.

author: hli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2019, 09:17:31 am
content: My KiCAD (5.0.2) has Edit / Move and Swap Layers. That seems to do what you need.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2019, 03:13:04 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 06, 2019, 06:55:57 amYou can tweak what is visible on your monitor in the "Layers Manager" on the right.Select the right tab labeled "Items", and then you can turn of SMD or THT pads, footprints and a bunch of other things.After that you can bulk select traces and press "e"dit and change the layer of your selection.@hli:What Edit / Move / Swap funcion do you use, where can you find it in the menu?I also have KiCad V5.0.2 and it seems that there are different properties windows for Zones and traces, and when both are selected simultaneously, you can edit neither. The "Properties" windows just don't pop up in those cases.

author: hli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2019, 04:09:52 pm
content: For me its in the 'Edit' menu (see the picture). It opens a dialog window where you can, for each layer, define to which other layer it should go.
Convert KiCad netlist to Altium? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ahbushnell
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 17, 2018, 08:21:38 pm
content: Does anyone know of a tool to converter Kicad netlist to Altium or PADS?ThanksAndy

author: s8548a
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2018, 10:49:22 am
content: Not aware of such tools available, here is a related discussion on the KiCad Forum:https://forum.kicad.info/t/import-kicad-schematic-into-altium/2963

author: ahbushnell
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2018, 12:31:08 am
content: Thanks

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2019, 09:25:40 am
content: On the KiCad site there is an "Altum to KiCad" project.This is the wrong way around for you, but it's an open source project apparently written in Perl.If you have andy intention of writing an Altium to KiCad converter, project may help giving insight in the Altium File Format. KiCad's file formats are documented on the KiCad site.http://www.kicad-pcb.org/external-tools/https://github.com/thesourcerer8/altium2kicad

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2019, 10:15:50 am
content: Altium doesnt operate with netlists. The schematic and PCB is linked together with component links, and there is a lot more information shared between the two tools than the traditional software. Therefore the question doesnt really make sense.
eeschema now has a modern, accelerated canvas - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 16, 2019, 12:02:40 pm
content: If you're using nightlies and haven't upgraded in a while I'd strongly suggest doing so... The new accelerated schematic canvas is super, super nice. It's now as buttery smooth to scroll and zoom as the PCB editor! Really improves usability significantly.I did have some aliasing problems, but I'm on OSX on a scaled retina display which might be the cause. I suspect the same thing might happen on Windows with a 4K display if you run scaled. Setting it to 4X oversampling fixed it for me; so if it looks aliased when zoomed out, try that. Switching to "Legacy" didn't make any difference.Definitely worth checking out!
Mini-Circuits symbols/footprints - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 06, 2018, 04:32:44 pm
content: Hi all,I submitted a few pull-requests with Mini-Circuits symbols and footprints to the KiCad libraries lately.If someone has ideas about modifications/improvements/additions, or would like to see their favourite RF-part included, let's collaborate!(footprint image to follow)AW

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 06, 2018, 04:43:07 pm
content: Footprints
KiCad 5 Assigning foot freezes? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Floopy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2018, 05:33:01 pm
content: I recently upgraded to KiCad version 5. So far it's been okay but every time I try to assign a footprint to a component, it just freezes up and about 30 seconds later it just pulls up a blank list. I've tried uninstalling it and reinstalling it with not luck. I can't find anybody else mentioning this problem. What's happening? I have a project that I need to finish soon.

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2018, 05:54:49 pm
content: do you have (good) internet connectivity with ports and IPs/firewalls allowing git-access to github?it may try to update from github every time you start the assigning-tool from schematic-editor.the workaround may be to download libraries to local files and point your library table there instead of github.

author: Floopy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2018, 08:06:58 pm
content: I downloaded the libraries and deleted the github.xxx ones. It seems to be working now? I have a very fast internet connection, I have about 40mbps.Well it works, that's the essential. Thanks!

author: MarkR42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 12, 2018, 05:05:56 pm
content: I am pretty sure I've seen that bug and it has already been reported; the footprint "filter by number of pins" seems broken and hangs the app for several seconds. Fortunately it's usually possible to use the filter-by-name feature (which still works).https://bugs.launchpad.net/kicad/+bug/1801622They are claiming it's fixed in the nightly build (see link)

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 12, 2018, 05:48:35 pm
content: Probably similar to that:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/kicad/footprint-association-tool/Removing the 'fp-lib-table' file usually does the trick. It's in the user's config. directory (on Windows, it's 'C:\Users\XXX\AppData\Roaming\kicad').

author: MarkR42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2018, 04:19:08 pm
content: That was an amazingly good tip, it's fixed!Bravo.
KiCAD footprints and 3d models - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2018, 10:28:18 pm
content: Dear friends,I have a design with through hole components, but I am confused about which footprints to use for resistors, ceramic caps, and elec. caps.There is the 5mm between each leg and there is more or less. I want to ask which one do you use?Also, I have a DC jack on board but I didn't find a suitable 3d model for it. I used the footprint in library but there is no 3d model for it.I will keep you updated if I have another problem of other footprints.thanks!

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2018, 01:24:14 am
content: Quote from: VEGETA on November 05, 2018, 10:28:18 pmI thought that most of the footprints in the official Kicad libraries had 3D models. I could be wrong.So, since there are about 8 million or so different flavors of DC jack, it's helpful if you tell us which specific jack you are using. And you can check that jack's manufacturer web site, as many vendors now publish 3D models of their parts.

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2018, 05:06:12 pm
content: This is my board until now, it is complete but without routing. See the jack at top left there, I have a general Chinese one, no name brand.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2018, 05:46:54 pm
content: I don't bother with the 3D models. I played around with them in the early days but quickly found it to be a waste of time. If I can't find a good match for the part I want right off I just create it myself off the datasheet, perfect result almost every time.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2018, 04:06:45 pm
content: I think some of the old libraries had 3D model but it didn't make it to the new version. You can check there if it is really that important to you and you have the time to burn I guess.

author: G0MJW
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2018, 10:37:25 pm
content: I had the same problem. In the end I downloaded a CAD model from a CAD website. These are very common and there was one in the older version so it is surprising someone thought it a good idea to delete it. Presumably because it wasn't up to scratch but to leave users with nothing is not really all that helpful either.Mike

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2018, 07:04:39 am
content: Quote from: G0MJW on November 10, 2018, 10:37:25 pmThis looks great, please share the link if possible.

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 12, 2018, 10:16:22 am
content: I found also that ceramic capacitors footprints differ. I need 100pF but it is only available in 5mm lead spacing package from lcsc, thus I would need to adjust it. Which will result in adjusting other ceramic caps such as 10nF and 100nF.I thought of leaving the footprint at 2.54mm as it is then bend the leads a bit, but I thought it would be ugly. What do you guys think?
Changing the  silkscreen text size all at once. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Arjunan M R
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 03:55:37 pm
content: I need to change the thickness of the silkcreen texts on my board because my fab house's minimum silkscreen thickness is higher than it is on kicad as default.I can change one by one but it will take too much time.Any other way to change all at once??

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 05:00:55 pm
content: Go to File -> Board SetupOn the left, under Layers, select Text & Graphics.Fill the table with the values you got from your board house.Then go to Edit -> Edit Text & Graphic PropertiesUnder "scope" check what you want to change, e.g. references.Under "filters" you can further limit to e.g. top silk screen.Under "action" you specify the new values. Here, select the bottom checkbox "Set to layer default values:".Press OK

author: paul.blitz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 11:08:51 am
content: Hey, thanks for that information..... I've been using Kicad for a year or so now, and I will admit that I've just been "using it" and not bothering to look at the setup! Maybe time to do another round of Kicad learning!!!

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 11:46:16 am
content: Zbut if i am not mistaken, that setup is only applicable to newly added components. Not applicable to the bunch on the pcb aleeady, isn't it?

author: poeschlr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 01:27:55 pm
content: @Yansi yes the board setup stuff is meant to setup default values for future additions. That is why @bson also included the stuff about edit text & properties which is meant to update the stuff already on the board (I am however uncertain if it works on everything or on the current selection)
KiCAD Access rights (5.0.0) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2018, 03:40:58 pm
content: So, I've set up a lib of all my custom components in Google Drive.Never used to have a problem, now suddenly I get issues with files being read only.Not sure how i can stop this from being an issue.It's doing my head in!

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2018, 08:12:08 pm
content: Quote from: CM800 on September 25, 2018, 03:40:58 pmHow exactly does this issue show itself? ie. what error message do you get.

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2018, 07:27:39 am
content: Quote from: donotdespisethesnake on September 25, 2018, 08:12:08 pmIn the top bar of the software, the file name is given also with '(READ ONLY)'and in attempt to save under the same name, it flat out says no.I've also had a lot of crashes with the footprint creation tool.

author: a59d1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2018, 08:00:08 am
content: Are you on Windows?

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2018, 08:41:10 am
content: Quote from: a59d1 on September 26, 2018, 08:00:08 amCan't believe I forgot to mention that.Sure am.All my other files in the google drive are fine to open / edit (schematics, pcb etc.)however, the footprint doesn't like working.---------------------------Create new library “${KICAD_GDRIVE}/KiCAD Libs/footprints/Phoenix Contact.pretty”?---------------------------Library “${KICAD_GDRIVE}/KiCAD Libs/footprints/Phoenix Contact.pretty” does not exist.Would you like to create it?---------------------------Yes No------------------------------------------------------Warning---------------------------Cannot create footprint library path “${KICAD_GDRIVE}\KiCAD Libs\footprints\Phoenix Contact.pretty”---------------------------OK------------------------------------------------------kicad Error---------------------------Directory '${KICAD_GDRIVE}\KiCAD Libs\footprints\Phoenix Contact.pretty' couldn't be created (error 3: the system cannot find the path specified.)---------------------------OK---------------------------the KICAD_GDRIVE has been set up correct AFAIK and seems to work in other places (including opening the files initiall)

author: spudboy488
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2018, 11:26:22 am
content: Turn Google Drive syncing off when working in KiCad. There might be a file contention issue where KiCad is modifying a file and Google is grabbing it to sync it.

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2018, 07:05:38 am
content: Quote from: spudboy488 on September 26, 2018, 11:26:22 amYes, seems to be the case, cheers for the help. It's just weird as it previously was never an issue.
kicad 5 fp library wizard - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nikkoderic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 03:52:02 am
content: i can no longer find the library wizard. help.

author: s8548a
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 04:11:57 am
content: Can you please elaborate a bit?What exactly you are trying to do? create a footprint? not able to browse them?are you able to find your libraries in the footprint library table in Pcbnew Menu > Preferences > Manage Footprint Libraries

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 06:56:20 am
content: Quote from: nikkoderic on October 03, 2018, 03:52:02 amThe library wizard has been removed, since you can add libraries by other methods. Use "Browse libraries" to add libraries.

author: nikkoderic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2018, 01:51:18 am
content: Quote from: donotdespisethesnake on October 03, 2018, 06:56:20 amHow will i update my kicad github offline cache? And how will i add another github library, from digikey kicad atomic library for example? Im using windows version of kicad 5.Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2018, 04:35:39 am
content: 1. Download the library/repo to your local disk. Unzip if necessary.2. Go into "Preferences->Manage Footprint Libraries". Add any new libraries and delete any old ones.

author: nikkoderic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2018, 01:52:12 pm
content: no way to do this automatically inside kicad just by linking the github?

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2018, 09:15:18 pm
content: I think you can add a github library by using "Append library" and then type values in the boxes, and it will work the same way as in v4. However, it will not download a local copy for use offline.The Digikey does not have the right format to be used as a kiCad github source, you will need to download a local copy and then install the library.

author: nikkoderic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 03:44:47 pm
content: I think i get it now. Thank you)Quote from: donotdespisethesnake on October 04, 2018, 09:15:18 pmSent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk
Kicad donations - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mark03
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 22, 2018, 09:20:55 pm
content: This might be old news but I just noticed: On the Kicad home page there is now a link for contributing $$ to the development team at CERN:https://givetokicad.web.cern.ch/They are pitching it as support for ~600 labor hours toward the next major release (6.0).I just made a donation and would challenge others here to do the same. With some of the key usability problems finally addressed in the 5.0 release, IMO now is the time to capitalize on that and help build momentum.

author: knapik
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 23, 2018, 02:24:56 am
content: They've been helping me out with a couple of bugs that I've reported, so I'm going to make a small donation some time later today as thanks.
Is there a file which tells KiCad what libraries to load in by default? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: XFDDesign
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 02:12:52 pm
content: It isn't a huge ordeal, but I find it annoying that each time I start a new KiCad project it default assigns the highly non-preferred KiCad included libraries for both EESchema and PCBNew. I'm curious where it's pulling this from, and whether I could modify the file (if it exists) to point to my own libraries by default instead?

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 02:51:27 pm
content: What version of Kicad and what operating system? The Kicad librarians are regular members/contributers at:https://forum.kicad.infoOne of the librarians has done several FAQ's that you could check there.

author: XFDDesign
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 03:31:29 pm
content: Win 10 / KiCad 4.0.7.I will give the site a look, thanks!

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 08:47:53 pm
content: Wrt to 4.0.7, for eeschema, the list of default libs is in kicad.pro, which is in C:\Program Files\KiCad\share\kicad\templateFor pcbnew, the list of default libs is the footprint library table, pcbnew->Preferences->Manage Footprint Libraries.

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2018, 01:05:40 am
content: Quote from: XFDDesign on July 16, 2018, 03:31:29 pmIf you plan on continuing with KiCad I think that's wise. It is growing in activity lately.

author: XFDDesign
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2018, 06:32:21 pm
content: Quote from: donotdespisethesnake on July 16, 2018, 08:47:53 pmPerfect. That actually turned out to be far more useful than I expected. I can plug in all my vendor defaults now. XD
MFB Filter Schematic Generator for KiCAD - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 14, 2018, 06:36:23 am
content: I spent tonight putting together a Multiple-Feedback filter generator. Currently it's limited to low-pass (Rauch) filters, and only knows how to cascade Bessel and Butterworth. It can also output single stages with a specific Q. The output is in the form of a KiCAD .SCH file that can be appended (see the readme on github for more details).Still has some bugs and needs more work... but I thought some of you folks might either find it useful, like to add to it, or just have ideas.It's GPL 3.https://github.com/bson/filtergen

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2018, 01:46:35 pm
content: Will keep this in my tool bag!

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2018, 03:56:28 pm
content: does it find standard E-series resistor and capacitor values also? some kind of error-analysis is also nice where you get a range of transfer functions plotted depending on the tolerances of the components you choose.

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 29, 2018, 02:50:59 pm
content: It doesn't; I'm planning do that using ngspice simulation as it's added to KiCAD, by outputting a specific simulation project that has everything needed for a proper Monte Carlo analysis. This should help select actual component values (and tolerances!). The project will also include a near-ideal op amp model to sanity check against since there so many scary models out there that yield insanely bad results.

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 01:48:31 pm
content: I added basic output to do ngspice simulations from within KiCAD v5. Turns out it can all be embedded in the schematic. It doesn't do MC yet, and doing so isn't hard in ngspice (there's an excellent example on page 430 of the ngspice manual; basically use the scripting frontend command 'alter' to change component values and rerun the analysis, outputting plot data each time through, repeat a statistically significant number of times) - but I need to make sure it works correctly from KiCAD. This is pretty neat, because the schematic can be left as is and the nominal E values with a gaussian tolerance distribution are then repeatedly set inside the loop. The original baseline can then perhaps be plotted in a different color or stroke to make it stand out... need to experiment with this.I also made it output Bessel filters with the smallest Q first (doh) and front load all gain in the first stage for any cascade. There's no reason not to for simple, uniform filters like this.
KiCAD Raytracing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Oslaw
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2018, 11:09:01 am
content: Hello,I just downloaded KiCAD version five. Nice Software but when I tried to use raytracing in the 3D viewer it crashed.Please can anyone tell me the problem and the solution.NB: I am using windows 8 pro.Thank you.

author: Ranayna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2018, 11:18:28 am
content: Maybe someone (though most likely not me) would be able to answer if you post a few more details...Most important:- your operating system- KiCad version- your graphics hardware and driver version- any error message you get

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2018, 11:24:06 am
content: On the top bar, go to "Preferences" and click on "Accelerated toolset" if it gives any kind of error about OpenGL, that will be your root issue,

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2018, 01:32:43 pm
content: I wonder if they will support RTX Realtime ray tracing...

author: technix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2018, 05:02:02 am
content: You need a solid CPU and GPU combo for this. What is your hardware specs?The two 4K ray tracing renders I posted here are generated using an overclocked Intel Xeon E3-1231v3 (3.5/3.9GHz 4C/8T Haswell,) 32GB DDR3-1600 memory and Gigabyte GTX 1060 3GB Gaming G1 under macOS High Sierra.The 3D view, regardless mode, doesn’t work well without a good GPU: it doesn’t work on my HPC workstation, which has dual Intel Xeon E5-2680 (2.7/3.5GHz 2x 8C/16T Sandy Bridge,) 128GB DDR3-1600 memory but an Sapphire R9 380 8GD5 OC graphics card.It appeared to me that in order to run KiCad 5 smoothly, you need no less than a mid-tier 2016-2017 gaming PC.

author: technix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2018, 05:10:06 am
content: Quote from: CM800 on August 30, 2018, 01:32:43 pmDoubt it. Although using RTX to trace a complicated board at 8K resolution would be an achievement, both for nVidia RTX and either AMD Theradripper or Intel Core i9-K.

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2018, 10:15:31 am
content: The reason it doesnt work for certain intel onboard GPUs is due to a bug in the intel openGL driver relating to buffer copies. This is currently be patched.
Simple stuff samples for Kicad. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: CHexclaim
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2018, 09:11:50 pm
content: Hello!I need to make a pcb with two linear power supplies, 78xx type. I never used a PCB design tool. I've install Kicad. I understand it has a steep learning curve at the begining, as any other cad tool.As what I need is very simple, I thought I would find online varios examples that I could load into kicad, modify size and shape and minor things and have it done quick enough while at the same time learn how to use the tool.I found some examples but of really complex boards. I could not find simple thing like power supplies, through-hole stuff, etc.Does anybody know of a source of these ?Thanks.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2018, 10:31:34 pm
content: https://contextualelectronics.com/courses/getting-to-blinky/

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2018, 01:39:29 am
content: When new to KiCad your first task will be to get acquainted to the user interface.I found the "Getting started with KiCad" pdf a very good entry point.With it I was guided through the whole workflow and designed my first (very symplistic) PCB in a single afternoon.http://kicad-pcb.org/help/documentation/#_getting_started

author: CHexclaim
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2018, 02:49:52 am
content: Thank you!!