The Schematic Editor connects circuit symbols across one or more sheets, with hierarchical sheets for organizing larger designs. KiCad brings schematic capture, circuit simulation, PCB layout, and board inspection together in an electronics design workflow.
How do you check a circuit schematic?
Place symbols from component libraries, then connect their pins in the schematic. KiCad includes a library of symbols and supports custom symbols, so designs can use standard parts or project-specific circuit elements.
Electrical rules checking can flag connection issues, while the integrated SPICE simulator lets you test circuit behavior. For larger designs, hierarchical sheets provide a way to divide the schematic into sections and reuse a subcircuit.
How does a schematic become a PCB?
After arranging the circuit in the Schematic Editor, move on to PCB layout in the PCB Editor. Place footprints for the components and route copper connections between them. KiCad's interactive router supports this routing work, and visualization and selection tools help manage objects on the board.
The project workflow links the schematic and board so the circuit design can guide component placement and connections. When the layout is ready, KiCad can plot board outputs and export design data in multiple formats.
What can you inspect in the 3D Viewer?
The 3D Viewer renders the assembled board with component models, giving a view of the board's physical arrangement. Inspecting the rendered design can reveal placement or fit concerns, such as connector locations and component clearance.
A built-in raytracer and adjustable lighting can produce more realistic board images. KiCad also includes libraries of footprints and 3D models to represent components in the layout and viewer.
Pros
- Hierarchical schematics support multi-sheet circuit designs
- Built-in SPICE simulation and electrical rules checking
- Interactive PCB routing with board visualization and selection tools
- 3D Viewer includes adjustable lighting and rendered board images
Cons
- Files saved by a newer major release may not open in an older one
System requirements: Windows 10, Windows 11 · ARM64 and x64
Can KiCad handle schematics with multiple sheets?
Yes. Hierarchical schematics can organize circuits across multiple sheets, including repeated use of a subcircuit.
Does KiCad include circuit simulation?
Yes. The Schematic Editor includes an integrated SPICE simulator, along with electrical rules checking.
Can KiCad show a board in 3D?
Yes. Its 3D Viewer renders the PCB with component models and provides adjustable lighting.
