KiCad’s official libraries are available for download on their They include schematic symbols, PCB footprints, and comes complete with 3D modeling data to complement their own 3DViewer tool, which enables you to inspect your design more in detail with an interactive 3D view. Now, let’s look at the two libraries and their distributors. Some well-known websites have been compiled, regarding two pieces of PCB design software – KiCad and Eagle.

This means that you do not have to build your own component libraries. GitHub SparkFuns Public Eagle PCB Footprints using Eagle 6. As a result, they have reduced the workload of the PCB design engineers. I checked the sparkfun library but I couldnt find a way to design Mega Shield. Together with engineers from TI, ADI, Microchip, Maxim, and TE, they have created files for mainstream CAD tools, and they share them on their own websites and the websites of its original creator. If you do not spend at least 3 days creating a package for a specialized part with more than 100 pins, you are probably going to feel uneasy about using it.įortunately, there are already many online resources contributed by many experienced engineers, who are well-versed in various CAD tools. Creating a perfect library will no doubt be a laborious process, especially for a large number of pins or for components with more complicated pinouts. There are the schematic symbols, PCB footprints, and the description of the component. Libraries are created according to the datasheet of the component that you wish to use. The creation of libraries lies at the heart and soul of PCB design.

Sparkfun altium designer library