Uploaded August 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Since KiCad first appeared in the PCB CAD world in 1992, it has gone through 8 major versions and evolved into a serious alternative to commercial products. I have been using KiCad almost daily since version 4 when I published the first edition of KiCad Like a Pro.
Get all the details of the course (and the book), and enroll at techexplorations.com/so/kicad-like-a-pro-4th-edition
Once thought clunky and barely usable, KiCad is now a solid, reliable CAD application. It has consistently closed the feature and performance gap against its commercial competitors. It has made leaps in adding powerful features and has significantly improved its stability.
Combined with the benefits of free and open-source software, KiCad is simply the best PCB CAD software for most use cases. One benefit is KiCad’s active and growing community of users and contributors. KiCad has a dedicated developer team supported by contributing organizations like CERN, the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Arduino LLC, and Digi-Key Electronics. The community is also active in contributing funds to cover development costs. Since joining the Linux Foundation, the KiCad project has received significant development funds through donations from users and industry. The project used this money to buy development time and fund developer conference travel and meetups. To a large extent, this alone guarantees that KiCad's development will accelerate and continue.
Supporting the KiCad core team is the KiCad community. The community comprises over 250 thousand people worldwide who have downloaded a copy. These people support the KiCad project in various ways: they write code, create and share libraries, and help others learn. They write documentation, record videos, report bugs, and share hacks. During each yearly development cycle, the KiCad repository shows tens of thousands of commits in the source code branches from the developer community. A similarly large number of commits is seen in other parts of the project, such as the libraries and the documentation.
Another signal of the strength of the KiCad community is that KiCad includes completed or nearly completed translations to more than 12 languages. No other CAD software that I am aware of can boast this. PCB manufacturers have also taken notice. Many now publish KiCad-specific tutorials explaining how to order your boards. Some have allowed uploading the KiCad native layout file from your project instead of generating multiple Gerber files.
And finally, KiCad is part of an expanding CAD ecosystem. You will find KiCad-compatible component libraries on the Internet's major repositories, such as Snapeda and Octopart, and native support in PCB project version control software for teams, such as CADLAB.io.
KiCad's development and prospects have never been brighter than now. KiCad's post-V8 roadmap has exciting new features and capabilities, such as a new Zone Manager feature, adding comments to ERC and DRC exclusions, and a selection filter for schematic/symbol editors.
Why do I use KiCad? Because it is the perfect PCB software for my use.
I am an electrical engineer with a background in electronics and computer engineering. But, above all, I am a technology educator and electronics hobbyist. Most of my PCB projects eventually find themselves in my books and courses. My projects are very similar to those of other hobbyists in complexity and size. I make things for my Arduino and Raspberry Pi courses. As a hobbyist, KiCad proved to be the perfect tool for me.
Your use case may be different. You may be a university student completing an engineering degree, a hobbyist or solo developer working in a startup company, or part of a team on commercial projects involving highly integrated multi-layer PCBs.
To help you decide whether KiCad is right for you, I have compiled a list of 12 KiCad Benefits.
Benefit 1: KiCad is open source.
Benefit 2: It is free!
Benefit 3: KiCad is unlimited.
Benefit 4: KiCad has awesome features.
Benefit 5: KiCad is continually improved.
Benefit 6: KiCad's clear separation of schematics and layout is a bonus to learning and using it.
Benefit 7: I can make my boards anywhere.
Benefit 8: KiCad works anywhere.
Benefit 9: KiCad is very configurable.
Benefit 10: KiCad ships with SPICE.
Benefit 11: KiCad has a predictable yearly release cycle.
Benefit 12: KiCad is now a serious productivity tool for businesses.
Get all the details of the course (and the book), and enroll at techexplorations.com/so/kicad-like-a-pro-4th-edition
Since KiCad first appeared in the PCB CAD world in 1992, it has gone through 8 major versions and evolved into a serious alternative to commercial products. I have been using KiCad almost daily since version 4 when I published the first edition of KiCad Like a Pro.
Get all the details of the course (and the book), and enroll at techexplorations.com/so/kicad-like-a-pro-4th-edition
Once thought clunky and barely usable, KiCad is now a solid, reliable CAD application. It has consistently closed the feature and performance gap against its commercial competitors. It has made leaps in adding powerful features and has significantly improved its stability.
Combined with the benefits of free and open-source software, KiCad is simply the best PCB CAD software for most use cases. One benefit is KiCad’s active and growing community of users and contributors. KiCad has a dedicated developer team supported by contributing organizations like CERN, the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Arduino LLC, and Digi-Key Electronics. The community is also active in contributing funds to cover development costs. Since joining the Linux Foundation, the KiCad project has received significant development funds through donations from users and industry. The project used this money to buy development time and fund developer conference travel and meetups. To a large extent, this alone guarantees that KiCad's development will accelerate and continue.
Supporting the KiCad core team is the KiCad community. The community comprises over 250 thousand people worldwide who have downloaded a copy. These people support the KiCad project in various ways: they write code, create and share libraries, and help others learn. They write documentation, record videos, report bugs, and share hacks. During each yearly development cycle, the KiCad repository shows tens of thousands of commits in the source code branches from the developer community. A similarly large number of commits is seen in other parts of the project, such as the libraries and the documentation.
Another signal of the strength of the KiCad community is that KiCad includes completed or nearly completed translations to more than 12 languages. No other CAD software that I am aware of can boast this. PCB manufacturers have also taken notice. Many now publish KiCad-specific tutorials explaining how to order your boards. Some have allowed uploading the KiCad native layout file from your project instead of generating multiple Gerber files.
And finally, KiCad is part of an expanding CAD ecosystem. You will find KiCad-compatible component libraries on the Internet's major repositories, such as Snapeda and Octopart, and native support in PCB project version control software for teams, such as CADLAB.io.
KiCad's development and prospects have never been brighter than now. KiCad's post-V8 roadmap has exciting new features and capabilities, such as a new Zone Manager feature, adding comments to ERC and DRC exclusions, and a selection filter for schematic/symbol editors.
Why do I use KiCad? Because it is the perfect PCB software for my use.
I am an electrical engineer with a background in electronics and computer engineering. But, above all, I am a technology educator and electronics hobbyist. Most of my PCB projects eventually find themselves in my books and courses. My projects are very similar to those of other hobbyists in complexity and size. I make things for my Arduino and Raspberry Pi courses. As a hobbyist, KiCad proved to be the perfect tool for me.
Your use case may be different. You may be a university student completing an engineering degree, a hobbyist or solo developer working in a startup company, or part of a team on commercial projects involving highly integrated multi-layer PCBs.
To help you decide whether KiCad is right for you, I have compiled a list of 12 KiCad Benefits.
Benefit 1: KiCad is open source.
Benefit 2: It is free!
Benefit 3: KiCad is unlimited.
Benefit 4: KiCad has awesome features.
Benefit 5: KiCad is continually improved.
Benefit 6: KiCad's clear separation of schematics and layout is a bonus to learning and using it.
Benefit 7: I can make my boards anywhere.
Benefit 8: KiCad works anywhere.
Benefit 9: KiCad is very configurable.
Benefit 10: KiCad ships with SPICE.
Benefit 11: KiCad has a predictable yearly release cycle.
Benefit 12: KiCad is now a serious productivity tool for businesses.
Get all the details of the course (and the book), and enroll at techexplorations.com/so/kicad-like-a-pro-4th-edition
![[100] Arduino Getting Started: Introduction to conditional operators](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/N3O0KoRqMsM/mqdefault.jpg "[100] Arduino Getting Started: Introduction to conditional operators
👋 Welcome back!
This video dives into conditional operators and structures, essential tools for decision-making in Arduino programming. Understand how to use conditions to make your programs dynamic and responsive. We cover operators like equals, not equals, and greater than, along with structures like if, if-else, and else-if ladders. An example demonstrates combining conditions with logical operators. No external hardware is required, making this a great foundational tutorial for beginners.
This series is possible thanks to the kind support of Sunfounder, an online store that sells high-quality hardware and kits for Makers. Visit Sunfounder at https://sunfounder.com.
In this series, I use the SunFounder 3 in 1 Ultimate Starter Kit with Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima, including high-quality sensors, actuators, power supplies, and Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima for diverse projects and skill-building. Get it (affiliate link): https://www.sunfounder.com/collections/arduino-kits/products/sunfounder-3-in-1-ultimate-starter-kit-with-original-arduino-uno-r4-minima?ref=bXS65iah
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Conditional Operators
00:07 - Importance of Conditional Structures
00:15 - Understanding Conditional Operators
00:24 - Common Operators in Arduino C++
00:45 - Using the If Statement
00:54 - Implementing If-Else Statements
01:03 - Else-If Ladder Explained
01:09 - Combining Conditions with Logical Operators
01:19 - Practical Example: Value Between 5 and 10
01:28 - Simplicity of Examples for Easy Understanding
01:39 - Recap of Conditional Structures
01:50 - Encouragement to Experiment
01:58 - Closing Remarks
📖 What Youll Learn:
* Basic and advanced uses of conditional operators in Arduino.
* How to structure decisions within your code.
* Simple examples to practice and understand these concepts.
💡 Remember:
Experimenting with these examples will deepen your understanding of how conditional logic affects program flow.
✍️ We Want to Hear from You:
Have questions or need clarifications? Comment below!
Like this video, if it is helpful, and subscribe to stay updated with our latest tutorials.")
![[095] Arduino Getting Started: Introduction to Arrays](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NEqNF70Bqvw/mqdefault.jpg "[095] Arduino Getting Started: Introduction to Arrays
👋 Welcome back to our Arduino series!
This video explores arrays in this tutorial. Learn the basics of array creation, initialization, and manipulation. Discover how arrays function as organized structures, like rows of mailboxes, to efficiently hold and manage multiple data points. This video covers various arrays (integer, character, and float) and demonstrates how to use them with simple examples that require no external hardware. Ideal for beginners, this session also includes a live demo showing the code in action.
This series is possible thanks to the kind support of Sunfounder, an online store that sells high-quality hardware and kits for Makers. Visit Sunfounder at https://sunfounder.com.
In this series, I use the SunFounder 3 in 1 Ultimate Starter Kit with Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima, including high-quality sensors, actuators, power supplies, and Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima for diverse projects and skill-building. Get it (affiliate link): https://www.sunfounder.com/collections/arduino-kits/products/sunfounder-3-in-1-ultimate-starter-kit-with-original-arduino-uno-r4-minima?ref=bXS65iah
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Arduino Arrays
00:02 - What are Arrays?
00:17 - Array Concept Explained
00:30 - Array Indexing in Programming
00:46 - Creating an Integer Array
01:11 - Creating a Character Array
01:23 - Creating a Float Array
01:32 - Storing Data in Arrays
01:55 - Iterating Through Arrays with Loops
02:25 - No External Hardware Required
02:37 - Live Demo: Uploading Code
03:09 - Closing Remarks & Call to Subscribe
📖 What Youll Learn:
* Basics of arrays in Arduino programming.
* How to declare, initialize, and manage data in integer, character, and float arrays.
* How to access and modify array elements.
* How to use loops for iterating through arrays.
💡 Remember:
Arrays help you manage multiple data points efficiently.
No external hardware is required for this tutorial, making it perfect for beginners.
✍️ We Want to Hear from You:
Got questions or suggestions? Comment below!
If you find this video helpful, give it a thumbs up and consider subscribing for more Arduino tutorials.
👀 See you in the next video!")
![[210] Arduino Getting Started: Ultrasonic Distance Sensor](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NPyd5whN8XE/mqdefault.jpg "[210] Arduino Getting Started: Ultrasonic Distance Sensor
This tutorial demonstrates how to use the HCSR04 ultrasonic sensor to measure distances with an Arduino. We cover the setup, the code, and the principles behind the sensors work.
This series is possible thanks to the kind support of Sunfounder, an online store that sells high-quality hardware and kits for Makers. Visit Sunfounder at https://sunfounder.com.
In this series, I use the SunFounder 3 in 1 Ultimate Starter Kit with Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima, including high-quality sensors, actuators, power supplies, and Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima for diverse projects and skill-building. Get it (affiliate link): https://www.sunfounder.com/collections/arduino-kits/products/sunfounder-3-in-1-ultimate-starter-kit-with-original-arduino-uno-r4-minima?ref=bXS65iah
⏰ Timestamps
00:00 - 00:20: Introduction to Distance Calculation 📐
00:20 - 00:41: Printing Distance and Controlling LED 💡
00:41 - 00:53: Experiment in Action 🎬
00:53 - 01:20: Using an Oscilloscope for Visualization 📊
01:20 - 01:40: Observing Distance Changes 🔍
01:40 - 02:07: Understanding Ultrasonic Sensor Operation ⚙️
02:07 - 02:29: Distance Calculation Formula 🧮
02:29 - 02:44: Applications of Ultrasonic Sensors 🌟
02:44 - 03:01: Conclusion and Summary 🎓
03:01 - 03:15: Invitation to Subscribe 📢
📚 Main Learning Objectives
Understand how to calculate distance using an ultrasonic sensor.
Learn to set up and wire the HCSR04 ultrasonic sensor with an Arduino.
Measure and print distance values to the serial monitor.
Control an LED based on distance readings.
Use an oscilloscope to visualize the sensors output.
Comprehend the principle of echolocation used by the sensor.
Apply ultrasonic sensors in practical projects like robotics and car parking systems.
📢 Invitation to Subscribe
If you found this tutorial helpful, please give it a thumbs up 👍 and subscribe to our channel for more exciting Arduino projects. Your support motivates us to keep creating valuable content. Hit the bell icon 🔔 to stay updated with our latest tutorials. Have any questions or suggestions? Leave a comment below. Thanks for watching, and happy making! 🚀")
![[090] Arduino Getting Started: For and While loops](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NqRX0H-9cVA/mqdefault.jpg "[090] Arduino Getting Started: For and While loops
This video series teaches how to write your first Arduino program using the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
In this video, discover how to use loops to make your Arduino projects more dynamic and efficient. This video covers the essentials of for loops and while loops in Arduino C++. It includes their structure, applications, and practical examples to help you understand when and how to use each loop type effectively.
Remember to subscribe for more tutorials!
This series is possible thanks to the kind support of Sunfounder, an online store that sells high-quality hardware and kits for Makers. Visit Sunfounder at https://sunfounder.com.
In this series, I use the SunFounder 3 in 1 Ultimate Starter Kit with Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima, including high-quality sensors, actuators, power supplies, and Original Arduino Uno R4 Minima for diverse projects and skill-building. Get it (affiliate link): https://www.sunfounder.com/collections/arduino-kits/products/sunfounder-3-in-1-ultimate-starter-kit-with-original-arduino-uno-r4-minima?ref=bXS65iah
Timestamps:
[00:00 - 00:12] Introduction to loops in Arduino programming
[00:12 - 00:26] Explanation of for loops and their components
[00:26 - 00:42] Demonstrating a for loop example
[00:42 - 00:56] Overview of while loops and when to use them
[00:56 - 01:10] Demonstrating a while loop example
[01:10 - 01:23] Practical application: Blinking an LED with a for loop
[01:23 - 01:38] Exercise 1: Modifying the LED blink interval using a for loop
[01:38 - 01:53] Exercise 2: Using a while loop to read analog input and create an alert
[01:53 - 02:25] Conclusion and encouragement to practice and share results")
