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Initializing a New KiCad Project

Project Creation Workflow​

1. Launching KiCad​

  • Platform-Specific Execution:
    • Windows: Execute kicad.exe from the installation directory or shortcut.
    • Linux: Run kicad via terminal or application launcher.
    • macOS: Launch KiCad.app from the Applications folder.
  • Start Screen: Upon launch, the KiCad Project Manager interface is displayed, providing access to recent projects, documentation, and configuration tools.

2. Closing Existing Projects​

  • Procedure:
    • Navigate to File > Close Project in the KiCad Project Manager.
    • Ensure unsaved changes are committed to avoid data loss.
  • Outcome: The workspace resets to a neutral state, enabling initiation of a new project.

3. Creating a New Project​

  • Step-by-Step Process:
    1. Menu Navigation: Select File > New Project… from the KiCad Project Manager.
    2. Directory Selection:
      • Location: Specify a dedicated directory for the project (e.g., ~/Projects/LED_Torch).
      • Folder Creation: Enable Create a new folder for the project to enforce organizational hierarchy.
    3. Naming Convention:
      • Assign a descriptive project name (e.g., LED_Torch).
      • Avoid spaces or special characters; use underscores for multiword names (e.g., LED_Torch_v1).
    4. File Saving: Click Save to generate core project files.

Project Directory and File Structure​

Generated Files​

  1. Project Configuration File (*.kicad_pro)

    • Example: LED_Torch.kicad_pro
    • Role: Manages global project settings, including schematic-PCB associations, library paths, and user preferences.
    • Editable Format: Plain-text JSON structure, modifiable via external editors (e.g., VSCode, Sublime Text).

  2. Schematic File (*.kicad_sch)

    • Example: LED_Torch.kicad_sch
    • Initial State: Blank schematic canvas with default grid (100 mil), awaiting component placement and wiring.

  3. PCB Layout File (*.kicad_pcb)

    • Example: LED_Torch.kicad_pcb
    • Initial State: Empty board workspace with default layers (e.g., F.Cu, B.Cu, Edge.Cuts) and grid (50 mil).

Directory Hierarchy​

LED_Torch/  
├── LED_Torch.kicad_pro    # Project configuration  
├── LED_Torch.kicad_sch    # Schematic design  
├── LED_Torch.kicad_pcb    # PCB layout  
└── backups/               # Auto-saved revisions (if enabled)

Configuration Best Practices​

Project Directory Management​

  • Dedicated Folders: Isolate each project to prevent file collisions and simplify version control.
  • Naming Consistency: Use a standardized naming scheme (e.g., ProjectName_RevX) for iterative revisions.

Backup Configuration​

  • Automatic Backups: Enable via Preferences > Common > Project Backup:
    • Backup Interval: 5–10 minutes (balances safety and performance).
    • Retention Policy: Retain 5–10 backups per project to mitigate data corruption risks.
  • Manual Backups: Periodically archive the project directory to external storage or cloud platforms.

Post-Creation Validation​

  1. File Integrity Check:
    • Confirm the presence of *.kicad_pro, *.kicad_sch, and *.kicad_pcb in the project directory.
    • Verify file permissions (read/write access).
  2. Schematic-PCB Linkage:
    • Open the schematic (*.kicad_sch) and PCB (*.kicad_pcb) to ensure bidirectional synchronization.
    • Use Tools > Update PCB from Schematic to validate connectivity.

This protocol ensures a robust foundation for subsequent schematic capture, PCB layout, and manufacturing preparation within KiCad. Adherence to structured directory practices and backup configurations minimizes risks during iterative design phases.