Single track multiple to zone

Layout
1

is it possible to transform a closed single track route into an entire copper zone?
to be able to see/have an area that takes the connectors of the different capacitors.

2

Select it > right click > Create from Selection > Create Zone from Selection…

3

the standard question/advice first: which version do you use? (always inform the reader about the used kicad version, as the answer might depend on that).

For kicad v9.: select one track segment (or multiple track segments) → RMB-click–>context menu–> Create from selection → Create zone from selection.

4

@greg_m
@mf_ibfeew

yes ok, I trace the area, but then how can I see it all in copper?
kiCad 9

image

5

You must manually invoke the filling calculation for zones. And you must have “filled zones display” enabled.

  • Edit–>Fill all zones (or select zone and use context menu)
  • View–>Drawing mode–>Draw zone fills (or button on left icon bar)
6

like this?
is it normal/correct that the area has a different color than the tracks, or do I have to apply some properties?

image

7
  • your zone is calculated → good
  • your zone is not connected to the pads of the footprints → you have to assign the correct netname for this zone (for this the net must have a netname assigned already in the schematic).
  • color: look into the appearance panel on the right side

Reading all your questions I would recommend to take the time and work through the kicad “getting started” tutorial. (not only reading, really redrawing the examples). This sounds boring and too easy, but will familiarize you with the GUI and with basic kicad concepts.

1 Like
8

actually i see that many footprints are < no net > name and it doesn’t allow me to assign it. how do i solve it?

9

Draw a schematic first, annotate it, assign footprints, check ERC.
Then in PCB editor > Update PCB from schematic (F8).
It will refresh and re-assign nets and footprints.

1 Like
10

omg!
I created the entire board directly in pcb editor to avoid trace problems in the connections.
thank U @greg_m

11

fix < no net > error?
if you find yourself in the situation to fix it you have to update all the footprints, repair any trace errors and you can solve.