This week I worked on designing a schematic and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) for a circuit with specific functions related to my final project. For this week I decided to use KiCad because I wanted to try a new software for electronics design (since I always use Altium at school). For this project I worked with a Xiao RP2040 because we have some at the labs.
What is Electronics Design?
Electronic design is the intricate process of defining the physical architecture, components, and connectivity of electrical systems to achieve a specific functionality. In the modern era, it serves as the backbone of global innovation, bridging the gap between abstract software instructions and physical hardware execution.
[ SYSTEM_CORE: SELECT DESIGN_PROCESS ]
[ MISSION: LIBRARY_SETUP ]
Software & Library
Download the official Fab Academy KiCad Library. I
- Open Manager: Go to Tools > Plugin and Content Manager.
- Search: Use the search bar to find specific add-ons or libraries.
- Install: Click Install and then Apply Pending Changes at the bottom.
Configuration
If you want to use all the components that the Fab library has in it (which are plenty) just type Fab and click on the complement that look's like in the image.
[ MISSION: LOGIC_WIRING ]
Placing the MCU
Press 'A' and search for Seeed-Xiao-RP2040. Place it in the center. Use 'W' to start wiring the pins to your components.
Configuration
Once the library is added, make sure to link the Footprints as well so you can visualize the components in 3D and export the board later.
Configuration
If you want to use all the components that the Fab library has in it (which are plenty) just type Fab and click on the complement that look's like in the image.
Configuration
If you want to use all the components that the Fab library has in it (which are plenty) just type Fab and click on the complement that look's like in the image.
Configuration
If you want to use all the components that the Fab library has in it (which are plenty) just type Fab and click on the complement that look's like in the image.
