Introduction

Resources

• LM3178 (On Digikey | datasheet)
• KiCad.org
• KiCad Documentation
• Common Pin Types and their Meanings

Steps

1. Open up KiCad (start –> KiCad) and select the Symbol Editor

   Open Symbol Editor

2. If this is the first time running the symbol editor, you will be asked to configure the global symbol library table. Select the default option.

   Configure Global Symbol Library Table

3. Select File–>New Library

   Step 2

4. When you start a new library, a popup window asks if the library will be global or project table entry. Global should be chosen.

   Select Library Type

   Note: Custom libraries must be copied as “new project table entries” into the project folder after being fully populated but before archiving.

5. Give the library a name unique to yourself

   Name your library

6. In the main editor, create a new symbol

   Create new symbol

7. Fill in Symbol information

   Fill in Symbol Info

8. Create a rectangle

   Create a Rectangle

9. Place the rectangle in the working area. It doesn’t have to be precise yet.

   Place Rectangle

10. Create a Pin to go along the bottom of the part (similar to its package)

    Create a Pin

11. Fill in Pin information, including pin name, number, type, and orientation. Refer to the datasheet.

    1. For example, pin one should be an “input” pin

       Pin 1

    2. Pin 2 is a voltage out pin type

       Pin 2

    3. Pin 3 is a voltage input type

       Pin 3

12. Finally, adjust pins and boxes to get the final look and feel of the device. Select the parts you wish to move, right click and select “move” (or type “m”)

    Adjust Pins and Box

13. Save and Close.