I decided to seriously try to learn to use this tool.
I entered a schematic (and I had to create a couple of libraries for components that it didn't have... A bit fiddly, but not too hard)
Then I tried to create a board. The first time I just picked modules (pad layouts) that had the right number of pins and I managed to get it kind-of working.
So I went in search of the real pads the second time.
The real problem with KiCad seems to be the lack of pad layouts. I've spent almost the last half a day trying to find a SSOT-6 module. I tried (twice) to create my own, but the interface is baffling. The web sites that Google finds simply don't seem to exist any more.
I'm almost at the point of giving up.
I've used another tool which had a lack of pad layouts, but creating them was simple. KiCad isn't so forgiving.
I entered a schematic (and I had to create a couple of libraries for components that it didn't have... A bit fiddly, but not too hard)
Then I tried to create a board. The first time I just picked modules (pad layouts) that had the right number of pins and I managed to get it kind-of working.
So I went in search of the real pads the second time.
The real problem with KiCad seems to be the lack of pad layouts. I've spent almost the last half a day trying to find a SSOT-6 module. I tried (twice) to create my own, but the interface is baffling. The web sites that Google finds simply don't seem to exist any more.
I'm almost at the point of giving up.
I've used another tool which had a lack of pad layouts, but creating them was simple. KiCad isn't so forgiving.