I’m new to EDA software in general and have a quick question…
I recently installed KiCad 9.0.6 and have started using it to create a schematic/pcb for a project of mine. One thing I’ve run into a few times is not being able to find a component in the libraries. In this case it’s a 5 pin DIN jack, but there have been others.
One does a person do in this case? Are there particular tricks to searching the libraries? Is there somewhere to go download components?Is the user supposed to just build the symbol and footprint?
Talking about “component” is ambiguous when KiCad libraries are concerned. Symbols and footprints are separate. Finding a 5-pin DIN symbol is easy, just write din to the search field.
The footprint is more difficult. There doesn’t exist round DIN receptacle footprint, or at least I can’t find it. But that’s natural and happens quite often, and especially with connectors: there just isn’t only one DIN PCB connector, there may be myriads of models, and you should first know which actual physical component you are using. Only then you can know what kind of footprint it needs.
When you know the actual component, you can create a footprint for it based on a datasheet or on your measurements. You can also try to search in a service which provides symbols and footprints, for example SnapEDA.
Remember also that connector jacks are often mounted in the chassis, not PCB, and connected only through wires. In that case you have to use a footprint fitting for wires, not for a component.
@eelik , I see what you mean about finding footprints. Lots of symbols but fewer footprints.
I’m trying to create a footprint for a PCB 5 pin DIN connector, but having issues with holes that have no connections. Specifically the tabs in the front of the connect that are just used for anchoring. KiCad complains about missing nets. I will get it figured out eventually.
The easiest way to find out what you need is to surf through the Kicad libraries, find a footprint that has examples of what you require and right mouse click to see the Properties of the pads you require and how Kicad deals with this.
An easy way to view the example you choose, and use it as a reference, is to copy/paste the example into the footprint you are creating beside your existing effort, then delete the example when your footprint is completed.
Here is an example from the Connector_Barrel_jack library:
Although it is an entirely wrong footprint for your use, it shows:
Electrically connected pads
Soldered copper pads for mounting.
Non copper, isolated mounting pads.
Right mouse select each type of pad, open their properties and read the pad properties.
Don’t forget to place your Courtyard, Fab & Silk lines. The widths of these can also be established from the example you find.
