Convert KiCAD board files into clean 2D SVG drawings for pinout diagrams and documentation.
PcbDraw is a tool that converts KiCAD printed circuit board (PCB) files into clean 2D SVG drawings, ideal for creating pinout diagrams and documentation. It automates the process of generating visual representations of PCBs, making designs easier to understand than labeled photos or raw KiCAD files. The tool also includes utilities for creating population manuals and generating 3D board previews.
Hardware engineers, electronics hobbyists, and open-source hardware developers who use KiCAD and need to create clear documentation or pinout diagrams for their projects.
Developers choose PcbDraw because it automates tedious manual drawing tasks, produces professional SVG outputs, and integrates seamlessly with KiCAD workflows. Its additional utilities for population manuals and 3D previews add extra value for documentation and CI pipelines.
Convert your KiCAD board into a nicely looking 2D drawing suitable for pinout diagrams
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Converts KiCAD board files directly into clean 2D SVG drawings, eliminating manual drawing and ensuring consistent documentation.
Produces readable diagrams superior to labeled photos or raw KiCAD designs, making hardware projects easier to understand.
Includes the Populate tool for creating and maintaining HTML or Markdown manuals, adding documentation versatility.
Allows programmatic generation of 3D board previews, useful for automated workflows like continuous integration.
Requires KiCAD 9+, Python, and Inkscape or librsvg, making installation and setup more complex than standalone tools.
The README notes that the module library is not complete, which can lead to inaccuracies or missing components in drawings.
Tied to specific KiCAD versions; updates might break functionality until PcbDraw is updated, as hinted in the FAQ reference.