A command-line tool for automating the generation of fabrication and documentation files from KiCad PCB projects.
KiBot is a command-line automation utility for KiCad that generates fabrication and documentation files (like Gerbers, BOMs, and schematics) from PCB projects. It solves the problem of manually exporting manufacturing files through KiCad's GUI by providing a scriptable, repeatable workflow. This ensures consistency and enables integration into automated build pipelines.
KiCad users designing printed circuit boards, especially those working in teams, using version control, or needing reproducible manufacturing outputs. It's valuable for hardware engineers, hobbyists, and organizations implementing CI/CD for electronics projects.
Developers choose KiBot because it automates error-prone manual export steps, supports configuration-as-code for output definitions, and integrates directly into CI/CD systems. Its scriptable nature and focus on reproducibility make it a robust alternative to GUI-driven workflows.
KiCad automation utility
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Generates Gerbers, BOMs, schematics, and 3D models automatically, eliminating manual steps as emphasized in the README's focus on scriptability and repeatability.
Designed for continuous integration environments, enabling automated PCB file generation on code changes, which is ideal for hardware project pipelines and team collaboration.
Uses YAML files to define output formats and options, ensuring reproducible manufacturing files across runs and team members, reducing human error.
Handles different board variants with tailored outputs, such as assembly-specific BOMs and Gerbers, as highlighted in the key features for flexible project management.
Requires learning and maintaining YAML configuration files, which can be complex and time-consuming for users new to automation or those with simple export needs.
Lacks the visual feedback and interactive adjustments available in KiCad's GUI, making error diagnosis and real-time tweaks less intuitive and more reliant on command-line debugging.
Compatibility is tied to specific KiCad versions, and updates to KiCad may introduce breaking changes, requiring frequent tool updates and potential workflow disruptions.