# My Personal KiCad Library

This library contains custom KiCad components that are not available in the standard library.

## 📁 Structure

```
my-kicad-libs/
├── symbols/              # Symbol libraries (.kicad_sym)
│   ├── Custom_Logic/
│   ├── Custom_Power/
│   ├── Custom_Connectors/
│   ├── Logos_Artwork/
│   └── ...
├── footprints/           # Footprint libraries (.pretty)
│   ├── Custom_QFN.pretty/
│   ├── Custom_BGA.pretty/
│   ├── Logos_Silkscreen.pretty/
│   └── ...    # Only custom footprints, standard uses KiCad libs
├── 3d_models/           # 3D models (.step, .wrl)
│   ├── Connectors/
│   ├── IC_Packages/
│   ├── Mechanical/
│   └── ...
├── datasheets/          # Datasheets (optional)
├── docs/                # Documentation
├── scripts/             # Automation scripts
└── templates/           # Project templates
```

## 🏷️ Naming Conventions

### Symbols (.kicad_sym files)
- **Format**: `[Category]_[Manufacturer]_[Series].kicad_sym`
- **Examples**:
  - `Logic_TI_74HC.kicad_sym`
  - `Power_LTC_Switching.kicad_sym`
  - `Connectors_JST_XH.kicad_sym`

  - `Logos_Personal.kicad_sym`

### Individual Symbol Names (within .kicad_sym)
- **Format**: `[Partnumber]_[Package]_[Variant]`
- **Examples**:
  - `TPS54340_HTSSOP-14_PowerPAD`
  - `STM32F407VGT6_LQFP-100`
  - `USB-C_16Pin_Receptacle`
  - `Logo_MyCompany_10mm`

### Footprints (.pretty folders)
**Note**: Standard passives and common ICs use existing KiCad footprints!

- **Format**: `[Category]_[Specification].pretty`
- **Examples**:
  - `QFN_Custom.pretty`
  - `USB_Connectors.pretty`
  - `Logos_Silkscreen.pretty`
  - `Mechanical_Standoffs.pretty`

## ⚙️ Best Practices

### Component Strategy
1. **Use KiCad footprints**: Don't reinvent the wheel for standard packages
2. **Consistent naming**: Follow established naming conventions
3. **Documentation**: Include manufacturer data and datasheets
4. **Quality**: Test all components before adding to library

### Workflow

#### Adding New Component
1. **Check KiCad**: Verify symbol/footprint don't exist in standard libraries
2. **Research**: Find datasheet and manufacturer information
3. **Create symbol**: With complete manufacturer data
4. **Link footprint**: Use existing KiCad footprint or create custom
5. **Test**: Use in test circuit
6. **Document**: Add to documentation

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*Last update: December 9, 2024*