Swap footprint libraries

Layout
1

I have a designed board with its own library. I have a new library with different footprints but they otherwise correspond in name.

How can I get KiCad to use the new library without having to go and do it manually in Cv2pcb associations.

I can programatically edit the net list to do it but I want to feed the results back into the design.

Is there a sort of back annnotation path for changes say in the board designer?

Thanks

Lawrence

2

You can export footprints association by executing the Exchange Footprints tool. To do this, select any footprint on board and call its properties. This is the first button in top-right corner.
In Exchange Footprints window you can then export .cmp file wich is used as a list of footprints for Back Annotation command in Eeschema. This window also allow you to exchange particular or group of footprints on board wtihout CvPcb. Of course to keep schematic, netlist, and PCB in compliance you have to:

  • finally create back annotation file when any change has been made in footprints associations on PCB,
  • import this file to Eeschema and recreate netlist.
1 Like
3

That looks good, and I may try that.

I found a simple way for a local library:

Make sure that the new library is in a .pretty directory with the same name as the original library. Then then you can update the footprints in one simple supported step.

I’ll give back annotation a try as well.

Thanks

Lawrence