I inherited a project.
The Silkscreen is all over the front copper:
Is there any way in KiCad to subtract the silk from areas where it overlaps front copper pads?
KiCad does not have the ability to edit Gerber files (Gerber editors do exist, but it’s outside of the scope of the KiCad project for now). However, KiCad does have a setting for: PCB Editor / File / Fabrication Outputs / Gerber Options / Subtract soldermask from silkscreen during Gerber file creation.
Is the gerber all you inherited?
Well, I got a PDF of the schematic, but I wanted to see if there was a way of using the existing Gerber’s before I put the time into re-drawing the schematic and re-laying out the board.
If you just want to produce the boards, I’d ask a board maker if they can work with it. They may have other tools.
Yes.
It’s just sort of embarrassing.
I need to dissociate myself from the job…
KiCad can re-create a PCB from any set of Gerber files (provided it’s not in an ancient and obscure gerber dialect, gerber history is obscure). For more info:
I created that topic some years ago. These days you can also import an image (taken from a PDF) into the schematic editor and place symbols and wires on top of it. It’s not perfect, but it is a significant help for reverse engineering and re-creating a project.
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How many Gerber Files do you have total?
Can you isolate/identify the Silkscreen Gerber File?
Then import all but that one.
If you upload a ZIP File of the Gerbers
I have Pentalogix Viewmate Deluxe
I will attempt to clean up the board, free of charge.
I’m retired and like to keep active.
Better than Bingo, Crossword or Puxzle building.
Thank you, I appreciate the offer.
We are deciding what to do with the design right now.