PCBWay Fabrication Toolkit for Kicad

Recently, PCBWay introduced a new plugin named PCBWay Fabrication Toolkit into KiCad. With just a single mouse click, it’s now possible to automatically export four essential files directly from your layout: Gerber files, IPC-Netlist files, BOM files, and Pick and Place files. This feature significantly boosts the efficiency of pre-production tasks, saving both time and effort.

Installation via Official KiCad Repositories

Once installed, you can use the plugin to generate BOM files and centroid files effortlessly.

Demonstration of the Process:

Send these files to PCBWay, where they will be reviewed by the staff before moving forward with production.

Note: If you're placing an order for a patch job, make sure to include MPN information in your design files. This helps the quoting team source the exact components you need more accurately.

Manual Installation

In addition to the method mentioned above, you can also manually install the plugin by downloading the latest ZIP file from GitHub. Open the "Plugin and Content Manager" from KiCad's main window and install the ZIP file using the "Install from File" option.

About BOM Files

BOM files provide comprehensive details about all the components used in your design. To expedite the quoting process, ensure that your BOM includes the following essential information:

• Designator (required)
• Quantity (required)
• MPN/Part Number (required)
• Package/Footprint (required)
• Manufacturer (optional)
• Description/Value (optional)

We’re always open to feedback! If you have any suggestions or need further assistance, feel free to leave a comment below. At PCBWay, our commitment is to deliver high-quality services to everyone.