Where are my default 3D models?

Layout 3D Models
1

I have managed to get myself into a jam with the most basic thing and I hope someone can help.

I’m populating a PCB with 3D models of parts. I imported a 3D model that I downloaded, works fine. Next I tried to import a default part - just a socket header - and I can’t find any of the default directories in the tree, as the file explorer opens to the last location, which was my Downloads folder.

I have no idea where the default 3D models are in the file system. If I search my system for .step files I only get the ones I downloaded, no idea where the magical built-in libraries are. Are these files hidden? I’m using a mac.

If anyone can enlighten me I’d appreciate it because it’s probably something really silly. Thanks!

2

Of course, after a couple of hours of banging my head against a wall about this problem I post here and thirty seconds later I solve it. I’ll leave this here in case someone else needs this advice.

At the bottom of the Select 3D Model dialog there is an Available Paths dropdown. It’s usually blank which is why I didn’t notice it. If you click on that, you’ll find the paths to the default directories. Relief! :slight_smile:

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If you could, please mark your reply as the solution by clicking on the box with the check mark below the post. I could do it but as you’re new here, you probably don’t know about this forum feature. And welcome to the forum.

4

Well bark oad is ahead of me in one respect. I have never tried the 3D.

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I’m surprised you never tried it. It’s only a keystroke (Alt+3) away in the PCB editor. It can be addictive.

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Thanks for the tip @retiredfeline, done! And @BobZ I’m going to go by bark oad from now on :laughing:

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7

I did not download/install it:

  1. About triple the install size…

  2. I mostly use my own footprints. I would have to do some added work to create or at least include the 3D right?

  3. I mostly think of it as “pretty pictures”. Da Vinci I am not… :grimacing:

8

Aw, you’re no fun. :crazy_face:

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9

I’m as bad as BobZzzzzzzz.

I’ve never used 3D models.
True confession: That’s why I have never finished the FAQ “Beginners guide to libraries” :cry:

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OnTopic: if you add any footprint from the standard KiCad libraries that has a 3D model associated with it you could then check it’s properties to find the location of the standard KiCad 3D models.

Off Topic: if you ever get into working with Mechanical Engineers to build your PCBA into something else mechanical then you will get to appreciate inclusion of accurate 3D models into your PCBA layout. From there you can export a STEP file and get an accurate 3D representation of your finished PCBA (not only in the X and Y dimensions but also in the Z ) that can be directly used in 3D CAD applications.

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11

What @RaptorUK said! I love being able to export 3D models of populated PCBs to Solidworks or similar, and make absolutely perfect cases and enclosures without rounds of tedious and expensive revision. I think that the export to STEP around the time that 3D printing became a thing is probably what really made KiCad indispensible for me.

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