best open source PCB desing tools

 Top open-source PCB design tools include KiCad, FreeCAD, and CircuitMaker—each offering powerful features for schematic capture, layout, and simulation without licensing costs.

Here’s a quick overview of the most popular open-source PCB design tools:

Best Open-Source PCB Design Tools

• KiCad

  • Highly professional and widely adopted.

  • Offers schematic capture, PCB layout, 3D viewer, and Gerber file generation.

  • Strong plugin ecosystem and active community support.

  • Suitable for hobbyists, educators, and professionals.

• FreeCAD (with PCB Workbench)

  • Parametric 3D modeling tool with PCB integration.

  • Ideal for mechanical-electronic co-design.

  • Supports importing PCB layouts from KiCad and visualizing them in 3D.

• CircuitMaker

  • Community-driven tool by Altium.

  • Free for non-commercial use with cloud-based collaboration.

  • Offers advanced routing and simulation features.

• gEDA

  • Unix-based suite for electronic design automation.

  • Includes tools for schematic capture, layout, and simulation.

  • Best suited for Linux users and academic environments.

• Fritzing

• Beginner-friendly and great for prototyping.

• Visual breadboard layout and simple PCB design.

• Ideal for makers and educators

1.CNC 3018-PRO+FL55P Laser Module Kit Router Kit GRBL Control 3 Axis Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine with Offline Controller, XYZ Working Area 300 x 180 x 45mm

 Product Overview: CNC 3018-PRO+FL55P Kit

• Machine Type: Desktop CNC router and laser engraver

• Axes: 3-axis (X, Y, Z)

• Working Area: 300mm x 180mm x 45mm — suitable for small to medium-sized projects

• Control System: GRBL firmware with an offline controller for PC-free operation

• Laser Module: FL55P 5.5W diode laser (445nm wavelength) for engraving wood, acrylic, and some plastics

• Materials Supported: Plastic, acrylic, PVC, soft aluminum, wood, and PCB boards

• Assembly: Pre-positioned components reduce setup complexity and improve accuracy

• Stability: Raised base height (4cm) enhances machine stability during operation

• Software Compatibility: Works with GRBL-compatible software like Candle, LaserGRBL, and others

 Use Cases

• PCB prototyping and engraving

• Custom wood signs and carvings

• Acrylic and plastic part fabrication

• Laser engraving logos or text on flat surfaces

 Safety & Support

• Includes safety guidelines for laser operation (e.g., avoid direct exposure, minimum age.

• Supported by SainSmart’s user community and documentation resources

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2.KiCad Like A Pro – Fundamentals and Projects: Getting started with the world's best open-source PCB tool Kindle Edition

 Book Overview

• Title: KiCad Like A Pro – Fundamentals and Projects: Getting started with the world's best open-source PCB tool

• Author: Peter Dalmaris

• Format: Kindle Edition

• Focus: Practical, project-based learning for KiCad users

 What You’ll Learn

• KiCad Fundamentals: Covers schematic capture, PCB layout, footprint creation, and 3D visualization.

• Project-Based Approach: Includes hands-on projects to reinforce concepts and build real-world skills.

• Latest Version Support: Updated for KiCad 8 and KiCad 9, with insights into new features and workflows.

• Audience: Ideal for electronics hobbyists, students, and engineers transitioning from commercial EDA tools.

Additional Resources

• Available as part of an e-book bundle or with a video course companion for deeper learning.

• Offers downloadable project files and recipes to practice and customize designs.

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3.KiCad Like a Pro 2e: A comprehensive hands-on guide for learning the world's favourite open source printed circuit board design tool Kindle Edition

Book Overview

• Title: KiCad Like a Pro 2e: A comprehensive hands-on guide for learning the world's favourite open source printed circuit board design tool

• Author: Peter Dalmaris

• Format: Kindle Edition

• Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

• Available on: 

What You’ll Learn

• KiCad Fundamentals: Covers schematic capture, PCB layout, footprint creation, and 3D visualization.

• Project-Based Learning: Includes multiple real-world projects to reinforce concepts and build practical skills.

• Version Compatibility: Designed for KiCad 5 and 6, with tested examples and workflows.

• Audience: Ideal for electronics hobbyists, students, and engineers transitioning from commercial EDA tools.

 Key Features

• Step-by-step tutorials with screenshots and explanations

• Design recipes for common PCB tasks

• Tips for troubleshooting and optimizing your workflow

• Downloadable resources including project files and templates

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