Why are the Kicad Library conventions non-IPC compliant?

[Mars_Warrior]

@Sujith

Thanks for the document.

You’re welcome

@Sujith

It’s a bit confusing to stick with which…in this context what is the best practice to follow? and how you’re maintaining the library?, two entries for a part?.. like SOT23-5 N and SOT23-5 M for h.soldering?

I’m using several libraries:

• The original Kicad libraries, which also contain the “_Handsoldering” variants
• Three IPC7351 libraries:
• IPC7351C_Nominal.pretty (default for me: in most cases about the same as the manufacturer recommended footprint for recent datasheets)
• IPC7351C_Most.pretty (sometimes used)
• IPC7351C_Minimal.pretty (never used so far)

I generate the IPC footprints with the free Library Expert footprint generator. I also use the IPC naming conventions in that case, as I’m too lazy to rename them according to the KLC. I document the dimensions and settings I used in an excel file, so I can always regenerate them or check if I made a mistake.

And last but not least: I add the Eco1.user layer for the value and the value outline and pin 1 marker, which I make identical to the assembly outline drawn by the footprint generator.
Easy, lazy and fully reproducable