What is KiCAD MCP?

KiCAD MCP is a bridge between AI assistants like Claude and KiCAD PCB design software. It translates your natural language instructions into precise PCB design actions, making complex circuit board design accessible through simple conversations.

How to use KiCAD MCP?

Simply install the software, configure the VSCode Claude extension, and start giving design instructions in plain English. The AI will handle the technical implementation in KiCAD while you focus on the creative design aspects.

Ideal Use Cases

Perfect for rapid prototyping, educational purposes, and designers who want to focus on high-level design rather than software mechanics. Also valuable for teams wanting to document design decisions through natural language.

Key Features

Project ManagementCreate, open, and manage KiCAD projects through simple commands without navigating menus.

Smart Board DesignDefine board outlines, layers, and properties using natural language descriptions.

Intelligent Component PlacementArrange components in grids, circles, or custom patterns with precise positioning.

Automated RoutingCreate traces, differential pairs, and copper pours through simple instructions.

Design Rule ManagementSet and verify design rules through conversational commands.

Multi-format ExportGenerate fabrication files (Gerber), documentation (PDF), and 3D models with simple requests.

Benefits and Limitations

Benefits

Lowers the learning curve for KiCAD beginners

Speeds up repetitive design tasks

Enables design through intention rather than software mechanics

Creates natural language documentation of design decisions

Reduces manual menu navigation and clicking

Limitations

Currently optimized for Windows (Linux/Mac support coming)

Requires KiCAD 9.0+ installation

Complex designs may still require manual refinement

Limited to capabilities of the connected AI assistant

Getting Started

Install PrerequisitesInstall KiCAD 9.0+, Node.js v18+, Python 3.8+, and the VSCode Claude extension.

Set Up KiCAD MCPClone the repository and install dependencies.

Configure Cline ExtensionUpdate the Cline MCP settings file with the correct paths to the KiCAD MCP server.

Start DesigningOpen VSCode with the Claude extension and begin giving design instructions.

Example Use Cases

Rapid PrototypingQuickly create a basic PCB layout for concept validation

Educational DemonstrationShow students PCB design concepts through natural language

Design DocumentationCreate self-documenting design processes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know KiCAD to use this?Basic familiarity helps, but the system is designed to reduce the need for deep KiCAD knowledge by handling the technical implementation details.

Can I use this for professional PCB design?Yes, but complex designs may require manual refinement. It's excellent for initial layouts and routine tasks.

What if the AI makes a mistake in my design?All actions are visible in KiCAD and can be manually corrected. The AI assists but doesn't override designer control.

When will Mac/Linux support be available?Development is ongoing - check the GitHub repository for updates on cross-platform support.

Can I customize the commands?Advanced users can extend the Python command modules to add custom functionality.