Course description

KiCad Core 2: Advanced PCB Design is a comprehensive training guide developed to help electronics students, engineering graduates, hobbyists, and PCB designers build advanced circuit and PCB design skills using KiCad. This book serves as the continuation of KiCad Core 1, guiding learners from fundamental PCB design concepts to professional, industry-standard design practices through a structured, hands-on approach.

The guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions covering custom schematic symbol creation, custom PCB footprint design, library management, 3D model integration, advanced schematic techniques, hierarchical and multi-sheet designs, net classes, design rules, multi-layer PCB layout, copper pours, ground planes, differential pair routing, Gerber and drill file generation, Bill of Materials (BOM) creation, assembly documentation, panelisation, and PCB design automation using Python. Every topic is explained with practical examples that help readers understand not only how to use KiCad’s tools but also the engineering principles behind professional PCB design.

A complete Arduino Nano-based LED Controller project runs throughout the book, allowing readers to apply every concept in a real-world design workflow. By the end of the course, learners will have designed a fully documented, manufacturing-ready PCB while gaining valuable experience with the complete PCB development process—from schematic creation and component library management to PCB layout, design verification, manufacturing file generation, and production documentation.

Whether you are preparing for academic projects, final-year engineering work, electronics product development, or a career in PCB design, KiCad Core 2: Advanced PCB Design provides the practical knowledge and confidence needed to create reliable, high-quality printed circuit boards using modern industry workflows.

What will i learn?

• Design custom schematic symbols and PCB footprints.
• Design custom schematic symbols and PCB footprints.
• Integrate 3D models into PCB footprints
• Create advanced and hierarchical multi-sheet schematics.
• Configure net classes and advanced PCB design rules
• Configure net classes and advanced PCB design rules
• Design professional multi-layer PCBs with copper pours and ground planes
• Route differential pairs for high-speed signals.
• Generate Gerber files, drill files, and manufacturing outputs.
• Create Bills of Materials (BOM) and assembly documentation
• Design, verify, and prepare a complete Arduino Nano-based PCB for manufacturing using professional industry workflows

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