Tracks to pads

Layout
1

Hi New Here.
I see this has been asked before with various answers.
Using V6. trouble connecting tracks to pads orTHT’s. I have designed this pcb and altered previously with no issue.
So redesigned from start using same footprints/symbols, first set of tracks connected perfect, then next set hit and miss. Coffee break then reopen kicad, first track connected fine then next no go.
Any ideas I have tried multiple suggested remedies to no success.
This is happening on the Imac and Windows11 laptop.
Tried V8. was even more problem
TIA
Gavan

2

Are the pads you’re trying to connect joined by ratsnest lines, i.e. on the same net? If not they will not connect and you have to fix any errors in the schematic. You do have a schematic and you’re using the standard workflow right?

The schematic is the source of truth; if symbol pins are not connected there, the tracks will not connect pads that are not supposed to. It preserves correctness.

3

The most foolproof method for creating a PCB using Kicad is to:

  • Create a Schematic, making sure each symbol has an assigned footprint.
  • File > Annotate Schematic. This makes sure every symbol has a unique ref.
  • File > Update PCB from Schematic. This places all the footprints on a PCB together with ratlines showing the exact same connections between footprint pads as the wires between symbol pins on the Schematic.
  • Move the Footprints on the PCB to wherever you consider their best location.
  • Replace the ratlines with Tracks.
  • Every time you wish to alter a footprint, or a track connection, always make the change in the Schematic first, then “Update PCB from Schematic” again.

Following this method results in track placement without any hassles.

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4

Thanks for the prompt reply appreciated.

5

Thanks. I see you guys are the experts, I only play with this stuff for very small projects normally 1 off’s

With regard to altering a foot print/track etc.
I have altered completed PCB’s before just by placing new footprints in PCB editor and altering track there and it worked fine, maybe this wa more luck than anything.
Your detailrd fool proof method will be followed. thanks heaps appreciated.

6

Using that method often seems like a lot of effort for simple one-off PCBs; the endless back and forth shuffle between the Schematic and the PCB, but it is the system used for Kicad, and bucking that system causes Kicad to complain in one way or another, and unfortunately Kicad seems to always win, much to our frustration. :rofl:

7

Honestly I hope you continue to learn and grow with Kicad :smiley: But there is one fundamental to learn and that is the schematic comes first and develop you project around that. Newbies start with the built in stuff then move to personal library and stuff. You will soon learn that schematics are easy to do and your PCB will fall into place with one, good luck.
:mouse:

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