Pcbnew

Pcbnew is the PCB layout editor of KiCad, an open-source electronic design automation suite. It is used to create printed circuit board layouts by placing components, routing copper traces, and defining mechanical layers such as board outline and silk screen. It can generate manufacturing data used to fabricate PCBs.

Features include support for multi-layer boards, an interactive router with push-and-shove and manual routing modes, and tools for creating traces, vias, and copper pours. It provides layer management, grid control, and design-rule checks to enforce spacing and width constraints. Users can manage footprints, edit copper fills, vias, and edge cuts, and organize nets with net classes and other rules.

Outputs and interoperability: Boards are saved in .kicad_pcb project files and can be edited alongside schematic files within KiCad. Pcbnew can export manufacturing outputs such as Gerber files and drill files, and can generate NC drill data. It integrates with the schematic editor for updates and annotations, and includes a 3D viewer to visualise the board with component models.

Extensibility and platform: Pcbnew supports Python scripting and plugins for automation and custom tooling. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux as part of KiCad, which is released under an open-source license.

History and context: Pcbnew evolved within the KiCad project as the core PCB layout tool, serving both hobbyist and professional users for designing and manufacturing printed circuit boards.