How to Use Proto Circuit Lab KiCAD Schematic Modules

Proto Circuit Labs, powered by Scordion Electronics, provides high-quality KiCAD schematic modules to simplify and accelerate your Hardware Design workflow. These modules are pre-designed and most of them are verified to ensure they meet professional standards, allowing you to focus on designing your circuit rather than starting from scratch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using these schematic modules in your KiCAD projects.

Step 1: Download the Schematic Modules

First, download the desired schematic module from the Proto Circuit Labs website after you bought it. These modules often include a variety of components and configurations customized to common design needs. Ensure you unzip the downloaded file into an accessible location on your computer.

Step 2: Copy Module Schematic File to Your Project Folder

Locate the specific schematic module file you want to use from the downloaded folder. Copy this file (starts with pcl-[module-name].kicad_sch) and paste it into your working project folder.

Copy `pcl-[module-name].kicad_sch` file.

Paste `pcl-[module-name].kicad_sch` file into your project.

Step 3: Open Example Module Schematic and Use the Module

Open the example schematic file included in the module pack.
Select the module example from the schematic.
Copy the module and paste it into your project’s schematic file.
Adjust the placement and connections as needed to fit your design.

Select and copy module that you want to use.

Paste copied module in your working project schematic file.

Step 4: Validate and Annotate Your Schematic

Once all modules are placed and connected, validate your schematic to ensure there are no errors:

Go to Inspect > Electrical Rules Checker.
Resolve any errors or warnings.
Annotate the schematic using Tools > Annotate Schematic to assign reference designators.

Step 5: Proceed to PCB Design

After finalizing your schematic, you can proceed to the PCB layout. The pre-designed schematic modules ensure your footprints are ready for placement and routing in the PCB editor.

Why Use Proto Circuit Labs Modules?

Time Savings: Eliminate repetitive tasks by using pre-designed and verified modules.
Professional Quality: Modules are designed with industry standards in mind.
Customization: Easily tweak attributes to suit your project’s needs.
Modularity: Integrate only the parts you need into your design.

Proto Circuit Labs is committed to helping you streamline your design process with tools that save time and boost productivity. Explore the full range of schematic modules on our website and elevate your next project!