Why does KiCad include obsolete footprints?

Layout Footprints
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Hello I’m new to KiCad and like it better than Eagle

I have found footprints for parts that are no longer available. Does the footprint library get updated?

Is it still a case of manually adding footprints/schematics/cad files from manufacturers or is there a more centralized online library like eagle/fusion 360 have?

The obselete part I found was the: USB_C_Receptacle_Amphenol_12401548E4 I can find similar brands but the footprint is a little different but the manufacturer seems to have discontinued this a while ago.

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Maybe this gives you a good starting point to make your own custom footprint ?

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Because 1. Volunteer librarians are busy enough as it is trying to include new submissions, and 2. It may not be manufactured any more, but companies might still have it in stock, or hobbyists in their junkspares box. What’s the harm of leaving it there?

It’s always your responsibility to check that the footprint is suitable for your purpose. Your point of reference should be the datasheet, or even the physical part if there is any doubt, not a library, KiCad or not.

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Thanks. So I see its better to check the kicad library in the real world first before using them

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For this USB C Receptacle case I have found possible suitable replacements to be:

Korean Hroparts Elec TYPE-C-31-M-04

XKB Connectivity U262-241N-4BV60

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Better to check every symbol and footprint for availability in the real world before using.

Did Eagle delete footprints for obsolete components?

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You answered my question.

They have https://library.io/ which for what I was working on carried everything i needed in house for the same app.

I’m still learning KiCad but ultimately I have found the support community better. Overall I find it easier to use and I’m more productive with KiCad.

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Someone might still be using a very old parts, from some secret corner of Ebay for instance. Besides, it is always best to check parts, their packages and their libraries. And I hate switching Cads when all this must be redone.
Yesterday I read about a new design with 8051, 8051 is about 40 years old. He did it for fun.

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Most of my designs are based on the 8051 - Silicon Lab’s C8051Fxxx devices.

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I still use a lot of obsolete parts, Z80’s GALs etc so these are very much needed. Retro computers and parts are making a comeback :slight_smile:

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Or some dusty, neglected corner of the workshop! :rofl:

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The original 8051’s footprint is not obsolete, it’s the standard 40 pin DIP. The original 8051 CPU is obsolete but the architecture lives on as a CPU core in many modern devices.

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