Design with KiCad 5 from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

This course is based on a previous version of kicad which is kicad 5, if you are willing to study the new kicad 7 please look for "design with kicad " course
Using kicad for printed circuit board design.
Starting from schematics to the ready to manufacture designs.
Using the schematics editor and the pcb layout editor for generating ready to manufacture designs.
Using electrical rule checker(erc) and design rule checker (drc)
General idea about pcb types.
Calculating tracks widths and spacing using kicad calculator.

Pcb design beyond connoting pads and tracks.
Bom generation and sending designs to manufacturers and a look at the manufactured boards.
3d view of the project and exporting to 3d design software
Course ends with two real projects.
Show more
Show less

This course is based on a previous version of kicad which is kicad 5, if you are willing to study the new kicad 7 please look for "design with kicad " course
Using kicad for printed circuit board design.
Starting from schematics to the ready to manufacture designs.
Using the schematics editor and the pcb layout editor for generating ready to manufacture designs.
Using electrical rule checker(erc) and design rule checker (drc)
General idea about pcb types.
Calculating tracks widths and spacing using kicad calculator.
Pcb design beyond connoting pads and tracks.
Bom generation and sending designs to manufacturers and a look at the manufactured boards.
3d view of the project and exporting to 3d design software
Course ends with two real projects.
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

This is an introduction to the course, we are going to put the road map for the course and will end with a course plan showing how are we going to proceed.

This lecture is an introduction to the course.

In this lecture we discuss some of the reasons why someone may chose KiCAD over other software, you may find more reasons yourself, but these are the most common ones for many.

We commit donating 50% of the profit of this course to the KiCAD foundation.

This is a summary of our course and a road map, if you wish, you can print it and print a check mark on the sections we finished for a visual preview of the course progress.

This is a very important lecture, please get familiar with the Symbols, Footprints, and 3D models as much as you can, they are the foundation of our design in KiCAD.

We look in this lecture on what is a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) or PWB (Printed Wiring Board).

While there are more than few types of PCBs, this lecture lists the most common ones. this is important for when you are going to send your design for manufacturing.

Also, it is important to know what the manufacturer you chose is capable of manufacturing the type of boards you chose for your design.

A look at the PCB layers. best described is by listening to the lecture and looking at the attached resource.

This is a very important lecture and it is very important to be familiar with it.

Tracks, Vias, and Holes are the main blocks in connecting the components of our design, give a good attention to this lecture!

An explanation of different type of Vias.

This is another important lecture on setting the foundation, enplaning the surface mounted, and the through hole components.

If you want to go one step further in PCB design, way more steps further, give a good attention to this lecture, research more and more, as every jurisdiction may require different design and safety standards.

This lecture explains how to get the KiCAD installation files and get ready to install the software on your computer.

In this lecture we are going to install KiCAD on a Windows system.

Important to mention that we are going to continue the course on a Windows system, but if your system is Mac or Linux, you will be able to definitely continue the course with no issues.

We are going to install KiCAD on MAC system, we will do the libraries installation in the coming videos.

You may notice the installation here is for version 5.1.6 but this applies perfectly to the 5.1.7

In this lecture we are going to install KiCAD on a Linux Ubuntu system. very simple approach especially if you are not familiar with Linux terminals and coding.

Important to mention that we are going to continue the course on a Windows system, but if your system is Ubuntu, you will be able to definitely continue the course with no issues.

We are going to learn how to add Symbols libraries to KiCAD, if you are not familiar with what are Symbols, Footprints and 3D models please go back to lecture 5

In this lecture we are going to add Footprint libraries to our KiCAD installation.

We are going to get components libraries other than the KiCAD ones.

In this lecture we are going to install the libraries we download in the previous lecture.

In this lecture we are going to look at the 3D models before we use them in KiCAD

We are going to add 3D models to our KiCAD installation.

We continue 3D models to our KiCAD installation in this lecture.

This is is the first lecture of three explaining the KiCAD Project Manager, the main window of KiCAD.

Explanation of the Project Manager is continued

KiCAD Project Manager explanation continued.

In this lecture we are going to look at the Page Layout Editor, and how we can modify the look of our page to fit certain requirements.

This lecture explains how to use the Calculator of KiCAD, it is important to understand it, and we are going to use it in our Project 1 to calculate some values, and you will be using it or calculating the tracks of Rev 2 of the same project.

In this lecture we are going to convert a logo to a component (like a Footprint) that we can use in our designs for printing on the PCB or to add a logo to a schematic or such.

In this and the next lecture we are going to explain Gerber Viewer, where you can view the files that you are going to send for your manufacturer, we are going to use it for our Motor Controller Project as well.

Quick look at those parts of the Project Manager as they will be explain and used through the course where their use will be better explained and understood.

This is the first lecture in the EESCHEMA section, we are going to have a look at the tools and menus, and we will use them in our first simple project.

Here is a look at the PCB design workflow, the chart is in the resource of the previous lecture.

In this lecture we have a look at the main Window and start explaining the right side tool bar of the EESCHEMA.

Explanation of the right side tool bar continued.

We start explaining the pop up menus of the PCBNEW. we are going to use what we learned later in a simple project in this section in another projects later in the course.

In this lecture the left side tool bar of the EESCHEMA is explained.

We continue explaining the component of the EESCHEMA and we start the upper side tool bar.

We continue in the pop up menus explaining the Inspect, Tools, Preferences menus.

We continue explaining the EESCHEMA, and we start the pop-up menus.

We continue explaining the EESCHEMA pop-up menus.

We explain the Preferences menu in tis lecture.

Explanation of the submenu when you right click on a symbol in the EESCHEMA

We are going to use what we learned in the EESCHEMA in a simple voltage regulator project.

We star with adding the symbols of our schematics.

In tis lecture we will continue in our project, adding the Power, Ground, and the screw terminal to our schematics.

We start arranging the components and connecting them according to our schematics.

We continue arranging the components and connecting them according to our schematics.

In this lecture we continue in the op up menus, we explain the Help and Route menus.

Last in the pop up menus, we explain the Edit menu in this lecture.

After connecting components we are going to perform an Electrical Rule Check (ERC) to see if there is any problem in the schematics.

In this lecture we are going to do a final tidying up, to let our schematics look better, and we will perform the final ERC check on our schematics before we move forward.

In this lecture we will start assigning footprints to the symbols we used in our schematics, if you are not familiar yet with what is a footprint, please go back to lecture 5.

In this lecture we continue assigning footprints to the symbols we used in our schematics.

In this lecture we are going to generate the netlist, the connections file between the symbols that we are going to use in the next sections to create our PCB.

This lecture is a look at the Symbol Editor and how you can create a symbol for a component that you could not find its symbol in KiCAD or any other library.

In this lecture we are going to have a look at the PCBNEW main window.

In this lecture we will start explaining the tools in the right side tool bar.

In this lecture we continue explaining the right side tool bar.

Explanation of the Right Side Tool bar tools continued.

In this lecture we explain the layers in the PCBNEW.

The left side tool bar is explained in this lecture.

In this lecture we start explaining the upper side tool bar.

In this lecture we continue explaining the upper side tool bar.

In this lecture we will start arranging the footprints in the suitable places.

We continue the arrangement of the footprints of our Voltage Regulator project in this lecture.

We continue the arrangement of the footprints of our Voltage Regulator project in this lecture. we look at the Ground net as well.

Here we manually route the tracks and connecting the pads of the components together to form the connection between the components.

Filled zones are areas filled with Copper on the front or back copper layers, they survey different purposes, from noise reduction to heat dissipation to other reasons. In this lecture we look on how to add them to our design.

If you right click on a footprint on the PCBNEW you will get a long submenu, we are going to explain it in this lecture.

In this lecture we are going to see a different type than the manual routing and we are going to learn how to use it.

We will get the FreeRouting downloaded and use it.

Important notice: you have to have Java installed and run the FreeRouting as a Java app.

In this lecture we will have a look on the Gerber File and how to create them including the drill files as well, these are the files the manufacturer of the board will need from you to make your PCB.

We are going to create them in our final projects in tis course.

We will look at the amazing 3D viewer of KiCad and explain its menus.

If you needed to use a part that you could not find its footprint in the KiCAD library or any their library, you will need to create the footprint for it.

Give a good attention for this step an use a digital caliper to get your measurements of the distances between the pins, the pitch and the overall dimensions of your part, failing to do so will result on having a place for that art on the PCB that cannot fit it which may render you PCB unusable or you have to tweak and modify and solder!

In our first project we are going to create a footprint for a heatsink for one of the motor controller ICs.

In this lecture we are going to see how we can export the 3D .STEP file from KiCAD and get it to a 3D design software.

You will need this in Case you wanted to design a casing for your final product including your designed PCB with its components.

This lecture is an introduction to our first project, we are going to get the related schematics of the ST L298 and ST L297.

Please follow the steps and be sure you are comfortable with every step as this is section as it is the summery of all what we learned, also you are going to use what you learn here in creating REV2 of the board in the next section.

Starting our project in this lecture.

In this lecture we find that a symbol and a foot print are not available in the KiCAD library, we will work on getting them, and installing the, from a third party.

Career center

Learners who complete Design with KiCad 5 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Printed Circuit Board Layout Designer

A Printed Circuit Board Layout Designer specializes in converting electronic schematics into manufacturable physical footprints and routing for Printed Circuit Boards. This course is exceptionally well-suited for this role, offering comprehensive training in using KiCad's PCB Layout Editor. Learners develop expertise in arranging components, routing complex tracks, defining filled copper zones, and performing crucial design rule checks to ensure signal integrity and manufacturability. The in-depth focus on generating Gerber and drill files, critical outputs for fabrication, directly equips you to produce high-quality, production-ready PCB designs for diverse electronic applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Printed Circuit Board Layout Designer

Electronics Design Engineer

An Electronics Design Engineer focuses on the creation of electronic circuits, from conceptual schematics to the physical Printed Circuit Board layout. This course Design with KiCad 5 offers a systematic and hands-on approach to mastering KiCad for PCB design, directly preparing learners for this challenging field. You will gain proficiency in schematic capture, component library creation, and translating circuit diagrams into efficient board layouts. The practical experience with Electrical Rule Checks and Design Rule Checks, along with projects like the motor controller board, provides invaluable skills for developing reliable and manufacturable electronic hardware. This course helps build a foundation in a core skill for any aspiring Electronics Design Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electronics Design Engineer

Hardware Engineer

A Hardware Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of physical electronic components and systems. Proficiency in Printed Circuit Board design is a fundamental and frequently required skill for this career path. The Design with KiCad 5 course provides a practical and systematic introduction to creating functional PCBs, from initial schematic capture to preparing designs for manufacturing. Learners acquire hands-on experience with core tools and processes, including using KiCad’s schematic and layout editors, calculating track widths, and generating a Bill of Materials. This experience is directly applicable to prototyping and developing new hardware, making it highly valuable for a Hardware Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer

Research and Development Engineer Electronics

A Research and Development Engineer Electronics explores new technologies and creates innovative electronic solutions, frequently involving the design and prototyping of custom Printed Circuit Boards. This course provides the essential skills for translating conceptual circuits into functional prototypes. Learners gain proficiency in schematic capture, PCB layout, and generating files for manufacturing, which are all integral steps in the R&D process. The ability to quickly design and iterate on board designs using KiCad significantly accelerates the development of novel electronic systems, helping a Research and Development Engineer Electronics to innovate effectively and bring new ideas to fruition.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research and Development Engineer Electronics

Embedded Systems Engineer

An Embedded Systems Engineer designs and implements specialized computer systems, often requiring custom hardware and software integration. A strong understanding of Printed Circuit Board design is critical for creating the compact and efficient electronic modules central to embedded systems. This course offers practical experience with KiCad for designing PCBs, including schematic capture and layout, which are invaluable for developing custom hardware platforms. The ability to generate manufacturing files, understand PCB types, and export 3D models directly supports the successful prototyping and production of embedded devices, enabling an Embedded Systems Engineer to realize their innovative designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Electrical Engineer

An Electrical Engineer applies principles of electricity and electronics to design, develop, and maintain various electrical systems and components. Proficiency in Printed Circuit Board design is a highly sought-after skill within this discipline, particularly for those involved in developing electronic devices and systems. This course helps build a foundation in using KiCad to create robust and manufacturable PCBs, from initial schematic design to generating final production files. Understanding concepts like Electrical Rule Checks and Design Rule Checks, alongside BOM generation, empowers an Electrical Engineer to produce reliable and compliant electronic designs for a wide range of applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Aerospace Electronics Engineer

An Aerospace Electronics Engineer designs and develops electronic systems for aircraft, satellites, and other aerospace applications, where reliability and performance are paramount. Expertise in Printed Circuit Board design is critical for creating robust and space-optimized electronic modules in challenging environments. This course provides fundamental skills in using KiCad for PCB design, including understanding different PCB types and generating ready-to-manufacture designs. This foundational knowledge helps an Aerospace Electronics Engineer contribute to the development of complex, high-reliability electronic hardware for critical aerospace systems. This role typically requires an advanced degree.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Electronics Engineer

Internet of Things Engineer

An Internet of Things Engineer develops connected devices, which often require compact, energy-efficient, and specialized electronic hardware. The ability to design custom Printed Circuit Boards is a significant advantage for creating these unique devices. This course provides practical experience in using KiCad for schematic capture and PCB layout, crucial for developing the electronic backbone of IoT products. The skills learned, from component library management and footprint creation to generating manufacturing files and 3D views, help an Internet of Things Engineer bring innovative and functional connected solutions to life efficiently and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Internet of Things Engineer

Automotive Electronics Engineer

An Automotive Electronics Engineer designs and integrates electronic control units and other electronic systems into vehicles, demanding robust and reliable Printed Circuit Board designs. This course provides a practical foundation in using KiCad for PCB creation, from drawing schematics to generating manufacturing files. The project involving a motor controller board offers direct relevance, as motor control is a fundamental aspect of automotive electronics. This knowledge helps an Automotive Electronics Engineer develop the critical electronic hardware that powers modern vehicle functionalities and safety systems, ensuring high performance and safety in automotive applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Automotive Electronics Engineer

Robotics Engineer

A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and maintains robotic systems, which invariably involve custom electronic hardware for control, sensing, and actuation. Proficiency in Printed Circuit Board design is highly beneficial for creating specialized motor controllers, sensor interfaces, and power management boards. This course, with its focus on designing a motor controller board in KiCad, directly aligns with the practical needs of a Robotics Engineer. Understanding the PCB design workflow from schematics to manufacturing files empowers one to develop robust and integrated electronic solutions for robotic platforms, enabling precise control and advanced functionality.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Product Design Engineer

A Product Design Engineer is involved in the entire lifecycle of a product, from concept to manufacturing, often integrating complex electronic components. While broader than just electronics, understanding how to design and integrate Printed Circuit Boards is essential for creating functional and manufacturable products. This course provides practical experience with KiCad for PCB design, including exporting 3D models, crucial for designing product enclosures and ensuring mechanical fit. This knowledge helps a Product Design Engineer ensure seamless integration of electronics within a larger product design, bridging the gap between electronic functionality and aesthetic form.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Design Engineer

Biomedical Electronics Engineer

A Biomedical Electronics Engineer designs and develops electronic devices for healthcare applications, from diagnostic instruments to wearable sensors. Often these devices require highly specialized and miniaturized Printed Circuit Boards. This course provides practical knowledge in using KiCad for PCB design, including schematic capture and layout, which are essential for creating medical device hardware. Understanding the entire workflow from design to manufacturing files, and the ability to export 3D models, helps a Biomedical Electronics Engineer prototype and develop reliable, efficient, and compliant electronic solutions for the medical field. This role typically requires an advanced degree.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Electronics Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer Electronics

A Manufacturing Engineer Electronics optimizes production processes for electronic components, ensuring efficiency and quality. Understanding Printed Circuit Board design is invaluable for assessing manufacturability and troubleshooting production issues. This course equips learners with knowledge of generating Gerber and drill files, critical outputs that guide PCB fabrication. Familiarity with PCB types, layers, and design standards, even general ideas, helps a Manufacturing Engineer Electronics collaborate effectively with designers and identify potential manufacturing challenges early in the product development cycle to streamline production and minimize rework. This course may be useful for this transition.

See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer Electronics

Test Engineer Electronics

A Test Engineer Electronics develops and implements testing procedures for electronic components and systems. A strong understanding of Printed Circuit Board design may be highly beneficial for creating effective test fixtures, troubleshooting, and analyzing board performance. This course provides insight into the PCB design process, from schematics to layout and manufacturing file generation. Knowing how PCBs are designed, including the use of Electrical Rule Checks and Design Rule Checks, helps a Test Engineer Electronics anticipate potential failure points and accurately verify the functionality of electronic hardware, contributing to robust testing strategies. This course may be useful for this transition.

See salaries and explore the career path for Test Engineer Electronics

Technical Project Manager Hardware

A Technical Project Manager Hardware oversees the development of physical electronic products, which frequently involve complex Printed Circuit Board designs. While not directly designing, a grasp of the PCB design workflow is essential for effective planning, risk assessment, and communication with technical teams. This course offers insights into the systematic process of using KiCad for PCB design, covering aspects from schematic capture to generating manufacturing files and understanding 3D views. This understanding may help a Technical Project Manager Hardware make informed decisions, manage timelines, and ensure project success in hardware development initiatives. This course may be useful for this transition.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Project Manager Hardware