grabowski
046f66f6eb
- Add dedicated /kicad/ directory with organized subdirectories for libraries, schematics, gerbers, plots, and backups - Create comprehensive KiCad 9 library structure (symbols, footprints, 3D models) - Add manufacturing-ready directories for production files (gerbers, drill, pick-and-place) - Update all README files with KiCad-specific documentation and workflows - Add KiCad-optimized .gitignore file for proper version control - Create KICAD-PROJECT-TEMPLATE.md comprehensive usage guide - Add hardware assembly documentation and BOM management - Include detailed manufacturing file generation instructions - Add docs structure with design-notes and user-manual directories - Provide complete workflow from design to manufacturing with quality checklists
2.2 KiB
2.2 KiB
/kicad/gerbers
Generated Gerber files for design review and verification.
Purpose
This directory contains Gerber files generated during the design process for:
- Design review and verification
- Quick prototyping
- Sharing with colleagues for feedback
- Design iteration tracking
Note: Final production Gerbers should be placed in /manufacturing/gerbers/
File Types
.gbr: Gerber files for copper layers.gbrjob: Gerber job file (KiCad 6+).drl: Excellon drill files.pdf: PDF plots for review
Generating Gerbers in KiCad
- Open your PCB file (
.kicad_pcb) - Go to File → Fabrication Outputs → Gerbers
- Select output directory:
kicad/gerbers/ - Configure layers and options
- Click Plot
- Generate drill files: File → Fabrication Outputs → Drill Files
Typical Layer Files
gerbers/
├── ProjectName-F_Cu.gbr # Front copper
├── ProjectName-B_Cu.gbr # Back copper
├── ProjectName-F_SilkS.gbr # Front silkscreen
├── ProjectName-B_SilkS.gbr # Back silkscreen
├── ProjectName-F_Mask.gbr # Front solder mask
├── ProjectName-B_Mask.gbr # Back solder mask
├── ProjectName-F_Paste.gbr # Front solder paste
├── ProjectName-B_Paste.gbr # Back solder paste
├── ProjectName-Edge_Cuts.gbr # Board outline
├── ProjectName.drl # Drill file
├── ProjectName-NPTH.drl # Non-plated holes
└── ProjectName-job.gbrjob # Job file
Review Checklist
- All layers present and correct
- Board outline properly defined
- Drill files include all holes
- Silkscreen readable and not overlapping pads
- Solder mask openings correct
- Component references visible
- No missing copper or shorts
Gerber Viewers
- KiCad Gerber Viewer: Built into KiCad
- gerbv: Open source Gerber viewer
- Online viewers: PCBWay, JLCPCB gerber viewers
- Manufacturer tools: Most PCB fabs provide online viewers
Version Control
- Include gerbers in git for design history
- Tag important milestones
- Use descriptive commit messages
- Consider file size when committing frequently