Programming

6 Best KiCad Courses For Beginners in 2023

Coursesity Team

• 9 min read
6 Best KiCad Courses For Beginners in 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the "Best KiCad Courses Online for Beginners"! If you're ready to dive into the world of electronic design and printed circuit board (PCB) creation, you're in the right place. KiCad, a powerful open-source EDA (Electronic Design Automation) software, has gained significant popularity for its user-friendly interface and robust features.

Whether you're a hobbyist looking to bring your electronic projects to life or an aspiring PCB designer aiming to turn your ideas into reality, these carefully curated online courses will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to confidently navigate the KiCad ecosystem.

Join us as we explore the top KiCad courses that cater specifically to beginners, unraveling the complexities of PCB design and empowering you to transform your concepts into tangible electronic marvels. So, without further ado, let's get on this learning journey together and unlock the fascinating realm of KiCad!

Top KiCad Courses List

  1. Learn KiCad. Printed Circuit Board Design
  2. PCB design with KiCad - updated for KiCad 7
  3. Learn KiCad V6 and STM32 Hardware Design
  4. Design with KiCad
  5. KiCAD PCB Design For Embedded Systems & Electronics Projects
  6. The Complete Course of KiCad 2023

Disclosure: We're supported by the learners and may get a commission when you purchase via the link.

1. Learn KiCad. Printed Circuit Board Design (Free Udemy Course)

Are you eager to grasp the fundamentals of KiCad quickly and visually? Look no further than this comprehensive Udemy tutorial designed to provide a rapid and engaging journey into the world of KiCad and PCB design.

In this KiCad course, you will:

  • Create a printed circuit board on your own.

In this dynamic video tutorial series, you'll experience a unique approach to learning as we guide you through the intricate process of setting up your projects and crafting your very own printed circuit board designs. Say goodbye to lengthy textbooks and hello to an immersive learning experience that will have you creating PCBs in no time.

With step-by-step guidance, you'll master the KiCad interface, unlocking its potential to bring your electronic concepts to life. The course will demystify the complexities of project configuration and seamlessly transition into the art of designing functional and visually appealing printed circuit boards.

  • Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (1,596 Rating total)
  • Duration: 1.5 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion

2. PCB design with KiCad - updated for KiCad 7

This comprehensive course will guide you through the ins and outs of designing Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) using the powerful KiCad software. It will empower you to harness the full potential of KiCad, whether you're pursuing commercial endeavors or engaging in passion projects.

In this KiCad course, you will learn the following:

  • Updated for KiCad 7.
  • Printed Circuit Board design using KiCad.
  • Single, double, and multi-layer board design.
  • The PCB design process.
  • The schematic design process.
  • The layout design process.
  • How to associate schematic symbols to footprints.
  • How to create the layout of a PCB.
  • Important PCB concepts, such as edge cuts, copper fills, mounting holes, soldermask, silkscreen, traces, etc.
  • Detailed knowledge of the KiCad CAD application (its apps, configuration, toolbars, menus, project files, etc.)
  • Project-based learning to ensure mastery of the topics taught.

Dive into the latest advancements with KiCad 6 and KiCad 7 as we explore the rich landscape of PCB design. If you're a seasoned PCB designer seeking to transition to KiCad from another tool or a prior version of KiCad, this course got you covered too. Additionally, it caters to all levels of expertise, ensuring a smooth and rewarding learning journey for everyone.

So, whether you're embarking on your first PCB design adventure or seeking to elevate your skills to a new pinnacle, this course is your gateway to mastering this exceptional tool.

  • Course rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 (763 Rating total)
  • Duration: 27 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion

3. Learn KiCad V6 and STM32 Hardware Design (Free Udemy Course)

In this course, you'll not only learn how to use KiCad V6 effectively but also embark on an enriching journey of STM32-based hardware design. Whether you're a beginner seeking to transition from Arduino or an experienced enthusiast in pursuit of refined skills, this course will equip you with the expertise needed to create your custom PCBs with STM32 microcontrollers.

In this KiCad course, you will learn the following:

  • Master the basics of KiCad V6.
  • Know what external circuitry is required for STM32 microcontrollers, USB, and more.
  • Learn guidelines and best practices for PCB layout and routing.
  • Understand what information is required to get your prototype manufactured.

Lesson 1: Schematic

Enter KiCad V6's realm, crafting a blueprint for your STM32-powered design. Assemble essentials like STM32 microcontrollers and capacitors, optimizing for success. Learn pin-out planning through STM32CubeIDE, integrate USB 2.0 FS and smart power supply design. Master rules check annotations and strategic footprint assignments for your journey ahead.

Lesson 2: PCB Layout

Harness KiCad V6's PCB editor prowess. Set up, import capabilities, and visualize with 3D. Place STM32, capacitors, and connectors. Refine footprints, define the LDO power supply layout, shape the board's contour, and add mounting holes for stability.

Lesson 3: PCB Routing

Navigate intelligent routing. Order and prioritize, integrate capacitors, crystals, and sensitive traces. Optimize with ground planes, vias, and power routing. Elevate design with a custom silkscreen logo. Ensure precision through rule checks and assessments, setting the stage for excellence.

Lesson 4: Manufacturing

Witness the digital evolve to tangible. Generate vital manufacturing files, bridging design and production. Transition your design into a hardware reality, primed for assembly and production. Seamlessly bridge the gap between vision and creation, unleashing your STM32-based PCB into the world.

  • Course rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 (1,136 Rating total)
  • Duration: 1.6 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion
Learn KiCad V6

4. Design with KiCad

This course offers a systematic and manageable approach to mastering KiCad 6 for PCB design. It guides you from the software's basics to confidently creating a development board without overwhelming you with excessive video hours.

In this KiCad course, you will learn the following:

  • Using KiCad for Printed Circuit Board design.
  • Starting from schematics to the ready-to-manufacture designs.
  • Using the schematics editor and the PCB Layout Editor for generating ready-to-manufacture designs.
  • Using Electrical Rule Checker(ERC) and Design Rule Checker (DRC)
  • General Idea about PCB types.
  • Calculating track widths and spacing using KiCad Calculator.
  • PCB design beyond connoting pads and tracks.
  • BOM generation and sending designs to manufacturers and a look at the manufactured boards.
  • 3D View of the project and exporting to 3D design software.
  • The course ends with two real projects.

The teaching method involves constructing a straightforward project while gradually introducing various software components. As your familiarity grows, the course delves into menus, sub-menus, and toolbars, ensuring a comprehensive understanding.

The course's centerpiece project involves crafting a two-phase bipolar stepper motor controller (REV1). As you advance, you'll tackle a more intricate challenge—creating REV2 with altered specifications and a different motor.

The final segment centers on developing a comprehensive understanding of creating a development board. With step-by-step guidance, you'll learn how to route it using an auto-router. The course provides visual insights into actual printed circuit boards manufactured during the lessons, reinforcing your learning journey.

  • Course rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 (223 Rating total)
  • Duration: 12 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion
KiCad Design

5. KiCAD PCB Design For Embedded Systems & Electronics Projects

This course commences with an exploration of printed circuit board (PCB) technology, swiftly transitioning to an in-depth focus on PCB design CAD software tools, particularly honing in on the KiCAD platform.

In this KiCad course, you will learn the following:

  • KiCAD 5.1
  • Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Design With KiCAD.
  • PCB Design Workflow (Methodology).
  • Documentation For HW Requirements & TLD.
  • From Idea or Requirement To Actual PCB Product.
  • BOM Selection Process
  • Schematic Design & Capture.
  • Assigning Footprints To Symbol Parts.
  • PCB Layout Editing & Routing.
  • Gerber Output Files Generation For Fabrication.
  • Generating SMT Files For Automated PCB Assembly.
  • Project-Based Course (Flasher LED Board, Create Your Own Embedded Dev. Board, and a USB-Powered Device).

You'll gain hands-on experience with KiCAD's tools for schematic capture and PCB layout editing, facilitated by a simple example board. The 10-step PCB design methodology provides an efficient way to design PCBs. This approach will serve as the cornerstone for all subsequent project examples.

The course culminates in three dedicated sections, each dedicated to a distinct project. Within these sections, you'll be led through a structured process:

  • Defining Hardware Requirements
  • Crafting Schematic Designs
  • Executing Schematic Capture
  • Ensuring ERC Compliance
  • Assigning Footprints
  • Navigating PCB Layout & Routing
  • Verifying DRC Compliance
  • Generating Fabrication-Ready Output (Gerber) Files
  • Compiling a Bill of Materials (BOM)
  • Preparing POS for SMT Services

This course progressively builds proficiency through detailed instruction across three diverse projects, enabling you to grasp when and how to execute each step. Dive into these structured steps and master the art of PCB design with confidence!

  • Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (119 Rating total)
  • Duration: 5 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion

6. The Complete Course of KiCad 2023

Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of KiCad with this comprehensive course designed to equip students, engineers, and electronics enthusiasts with practical expertise. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned professional, this course guides you seamlessly from KiCad's foundational principles to advanced mastery.

In this KiCad course, you will learn the following:

  • Fully master KiCad, to be able to conduct your own PCB design and electronics projects from scratch.
  • Become familiar with its interface, toolbars, and basic commands, and master all the phases of the design, layout, and configuration process.
  • Use step by step the Schematic Editor Environment, understanding all the logic and ending with advanced practical examples.
  • Learn in a professional way the PCB Editor Environment, going deep into every detail.
  • Understand the fundamental concepts to be able to work with Manufacturing Files (BoM, CPL, Gerber, Drill...) in a professional way.
  • Learn how to make your own library, and above all, understand their interpretation.
  • Master all the KiCad Spice Simulation, using all options of the software.
  • Practice the content learned in a practical way by following all the steps in the complete exercises.
  • Start with the basics and progressively carry out more complex steps until you reach an advanced level and absolute mastery at the end of the course.

As part of this course, you will experience a dynamic introduction to KiCad's essence and the course structure, laying the groundwork for an immersive learning experience. You will effortlessly navigate the installation of the latest KiCad version, setting the stage for a seamless exploration of its versatile capabilities.

This course will help you learn KiCad's user interface, and its robust features will empower you to navigate the software confidently. From project initiation to advanced stages encompassing 3D visualization, routing intricacies, and Design Rule Check (DRC), you'll progressively unravel the intricacies of PCB design.

Next, you will master the art of handling Manufacturing Files (BoM, CPL, Gerber, Drill) with finesse, unlocking the key to efficient design execution. Craft your personalized library, enhancing your design flexibility and unleashing creativity.

Then, you will dive deep into the KiCad Spice Simulation toolkit, uncovering its potential to simulate and optimize your designs. With each software functionality and tool demystified, you'll emerge with mastery over KiCad's intricacies.

Lastly, you will engage in immersive practical exercises that solidify your comprehension and enrich your learning journey. Through an array of experiences, you'll hone your skills and gain the confidence to tackle real-world design challenges.

  • Course rating: 5.0 out of 5.0
  • Duration: 8 Hours
  • Certificate: Certificate on completion

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