PCB Design with KiCad
Duration – 1 day-FDP
Objectives
• Learn the basics of PCB design using KiCad.
• Understand schematic and layout design steps.
• Get hands-on experience in creating PCB-ready files.
• Prepare for manufacturing with proper checks and
exports
Tools & Platforms
- • KiCad EDA (latest version)
• Gerber Viewer (e.g., Gerbv)
• PDF Tools for fabrication documents
Pre-requisites
• Basic electronics knowledge (components, circuits)
• Familiarity with circuit diagrams
• Basic computer operation
Take away
• Complete workflow from schematic to PCB
• Working knowledge of KiCad
• Ability to generate files for PCB manufacturing
• Hands-on design experience
Session 1: Introduction to KiCad (1 hour)
• Overview of KiCad and its applications in PCB design
• Installing and setting up KiCad
• Navigating the KiCad interface
• Understanding projects and libraries
Session 2: Schematic Design (2 hours)
• Creating a new schematic
• Adding components and using the symbol library
• Discussion of essential components like microcontrollers, resistors, capacitors, etc.
• Wiring and creating connections between components
• Best practices for schematic design (labeling, organization
Session 3: PCB Layout (1.5 hours)
• Introduction to PCB layout concepts and design rules
• Importing the schematic into the layout editor
• Understanding layers, pads, and footprints
• Placing components on the PCB and creating routed connections
• Design rule checks and verification
Session 4: Finalizing the Design (1 hour)
• Preparing for manufacturing (gerber files, netlists)
• Generating fabrication and assembly documents
• Reviewing common issues and troubleshooting tips
Q&A Session (30 minutes)
• Addressing participant questions and clarifying doubts about the course content, Creating a PCB for data logging application.