Re: [EE]:: Learning KiCad PCB package

I really like KiCad.  It isn't nearly as prescriptive as Eagle was, which
when I switched was a little confusing but it allows you to choose how to
work rather than being told which is great, but can also be confusing when
you first get started.

I found that printing a cheat sheet for the keyboard shortcuts really
helped me learn and eventually the often used shortcuts became ingrained.

The only issue I have with it is that when I create a library it only seems
to live until the next upgrade, then it gets lost.  No doubt this is just a
matter of me learning the minutiae of library management but it feels like
it should be a lot easier.

OhsPark takes KiCad brd files natively, and I think JLCPCB still requires
GERBERS but it takes the defaults.

Lastly in the PCB Editor hitting alt-3 to see the 3D model and being able
to easily export STEP files is magic!  Nowadays Digi-Key has most part 3D
models available.

DougM


On Wed, Feb 12, 2025 at 10:22 AM Harold Hallikainen <[email protected]>
wrote:

> I'm very impressed with KiCAD. Things like the PCBWAY plugin are great.
> Push a button, and files are sent to PCBWAY to place an order. I've now
> done a few boards with KiCAD with my biggest project being the four layer
> board at https://w6iwi.org/rtty/DspTU2/ .
>
> I've mostly figured out how to do stuff by Googling questions. I like
> reading instead of watching videos, but I'll have a look at the one
> suggested.
>
> Thanks!
>
> Harold
> https://w6iwi.org
>
>
>
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