Macro Devices/Cells

[flypie]

I was putting together a circuit and decided I need to use some Diode Logic, specifically an OR. NOt a problem they are very simple. If I was to make a habit of it it could get tedious in layout, so I decided to create a custom symbol and footprint.

It all works fine even autoroutes with freerouter but it is not perfect. The Diodes and Capacitor will not show up in the BOM or get device numbers of their own. No values/types can be assigned to them. While it is fine for what I’m doing would it be a worthwhile addition to have a better system for this kind of thing? Probaley a lot of work for very little gain.

If it already exists I haven’t found it.

[paulvdh]

The Idea has been thought of before.
currently there is no implementation (yet) for it in KiCad though.

Maybe you find it interesting to read:

Feature idea: Schemactic Subcircuit Library

Hi all… I have an idea for an alternative method of dealing with subcircuits (hierarchical sheets). I used to work at a startup for similar style software (though it focused on analog IC design), they had a rather nice way of dealing with hierarchy. Simple explanation: Design a circuit, add the hierarchy pins. Then create a symbol for the circuit, syncing the pins in the symbol with the ones in schematic. Add that to the library (project library or a global library?) When you need the circuit…

[retiredfeline]

@flypie

The Diodes and Capacitor will not show up in the BOM or get device numbers of their own.

Yes I did something similar for a chain of LEDs which I wanted to slant the whole row at a precise angle (7 segment display). Since it was for hand assembly I didn’t mind. As pointed out there are ongoing discussions on the concept in other threads.