SW-KiCad-Templates

Template board files for various stackups. Can be imported for other boards.

Using Templates

• Open your PCB
• Open Board Settings
• Choose Import Settings from Another Board
• Choose one of the template boards

Creating a Template

• Find the capabilities and stackup info from your PCB manufacturer
• Create a new kicad project. Delete the schematic. Keep the pcb file.
• Add the kicad gitignore to the folder of your new template
• Create a readme in the folder with a more detailed explanation of the template's configuration

---

• Edit the pcb file. Open board settings.
• NOTE: You can import settings from another template as a starting point if you want
• Board Stackup
  • Generally, do not edit board layers in the "Board Layers Editor"
  • Physical Stackup
    • Choose number of copper layers
    • Check impedance controlled if applicable
    • Edit dielectric constants (epsilon R)
    • Choose board thickness
    • Generally, leave colors unspecified
    • Click "Adjust Dielectrick Thickness" button
  • Generally, don't edit Board Finish settings (for templates). These may be changed per board sometimes.
  • Solder Mask / Paste
    • Edit all values to match manufacturer capabilities
    • If not specified by manufacturer, leave defaults
• Text and Graphics
  • Defaults
    • Change all default sizes based on what makes sense for the board's manufacturing process
    • If in doubt, use values from the JLCPCB 2 layer 1.6mm board template
    • Make sure default unit of mils is used
  • Formatting: No changes
  • Text Variables: No changes
• Design Rules
  • Constraints
    • Fill in everything your manufactuerer specifies
  • Make appropriate chances in the default netclass section
  • Make no changes in other sections (that should be per-board not template)