# /kicad/schematics

Additional and hierarchical schematic files for your KiCad project.

## Purpose
This directory contains supplementary schematic files that are not the main project schematic:
- Hierarchical sheets (`.kicad_sch` files)
- Alternative design versions
- Modular circuit blocks
- Test circuits

## File Types
- **`.kicad_sch`**: KiCad 9 schematic files
- **`.kicad_sch-bak`**: Automatic backup files (excluded from git)

## Hierarchical Design
When using hierarchical sheets in KiCad:
1. Create hierarchical sheet symbols in your main schematic
2. Store the actual sheet files in this directory
3. Use relative paths when linking sheets

## Naming Convention
- Use descriptive names for hierarchical sheets
- Examples:
  - `power_supply.kicad_sch`
  - `mcu_core.kicad_sch`
  - `sensor_interface.kicad_sch`
  - `communication.kicad_sch`

## Example Structure
```
schematics/
├── power_supply.kicad_sch      # Power management circuit
├── mcu_core.kicad_sch          # Microcontroller and core components
├── sensor_interface.kicad_sch  # Sensor connections and conditioning
├── communication.kicad_sch     # Communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C)
└── test_circuits.kicad_sch     # Test points and debug circuits
```

## Best Practices
- Keep hierarchical sheets focused on specific functions
- Use consistent naming conventions
- Document sheet purposes in the main schematic
- Use relative paths for portability
- Include proper sheet titles and revision information