KiCad Hub: Guides, Tips, and Best Practices
Learn how to generate accurate pick-and-place (centroid/position) files in KiCad for SMT assembly. Covers export workflow, file contents, common issues, verification tips, and manufacturer preparation.
Discover the most common KiCad PCB manufacturing problems—incorrect footprints, missing Gerbers, design rule violations, and assembly issues—plus practical fixes to improve DFM and avoid costly respins.
Learn how to correctly export Gerber and drill files from KiCad for PCB manufacturing. Covers preparation, layer selection, common export mistakes, verification steps, and streamlined workflows for production-ready data.
Learn how to order PCBs directly from KiCad with a complete manufacturing workflow. Compare traditional export steps vs the integrated plugin process, required files, and how to go from design to production faster.
Compare KiCad plugin vs manual Gerber upload for PCB ordering. Explore advantages, limitations, and which workflow is better for beginners or professionals to reduce errors and speed up manufacturing.
Step-by-step guide to install the AIVON KiCad plugin, get instant PCB quotes, and skip manual Gerber uploads. Learn the complete workflow from design to manufacturing.
Learn how the AIVON KiCad Plugin simplifies PCB ordering. Generate Gerbers, BOM & PnP files and submit to manufacturing without leaving KiCad. Faster prototypes, fewer file errors.
Learn practical via design guidelines for KiCad PCBs. Cover via types (through-hole, blind, buried, microvias), size rules, clearances, placement best practices, and manufacturing limits to create reliable boards.
Learn how to export accurate BOM files from KiCad for PCB assembly. This guide covers required fields, manufacturer part numbers, file formats, common errors and a checklist to ensure smooth PCBA production.
Learn how to set optimal PCB trace width in KiCad. Covers net classes, current capacity, signal integrity, copper thickness, and manufacturing limits for reliable boards.
Learn how to create and manage copper zones in KiCad for reliable ground planes. This guide covers zone settings, thermal reliefs, clearance rules, common fill problems and manufacturing tips to improve PCB performance and yield.
Learn how to set KiCad PCB design rules for real manufacturing. This guide covers trace width, clearance, via size, common DFM issues, DRC checks and factory-oriented tips to ensure your board passes production review.
