Schematic capture
Build circuits from symbols and wires, organize connections and check electrical consistency with ERC.
DESIGN TOOL / OPEN-SOURCE ELECTRONIC DESIGN
KiCad
KiCad is a free, open-source electronic design suite. It connects schematic capture, PCB layout and board visualization in one project workflow, making it a flexible environment for learning, prototyping and developing electronic hardware.
FROM CIRCUIT TO BOARD
What can KiCad do?
A closer look at the core functions used throughout an electronic design project.
PCB layout & routing
Place footprints and route copper with interactive routing modes that work with design rules.
Design rule checking
Review clearances and layout conditions with configurable DRC checks before preparing a board for fabrication.
Component libraries
Work with symbols, footprints and matching 3D models; create custom library elements when needed.
3D board visualization
Inspect the assembled board in the integrated 3D Viewer to better understand placement and physical form.
Connected design workflow
Update the PCB from the schematic and cross-probe between the two editors to locate components.
A typical design flow
- 01Capture the circuit
- 02Assign footprints
- 03Place & route
- 04Run checks
- 05Review in 3D
Explore the official documentation
Continue learning with documentation from the software publisher.