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[Python] Converts Gerber files from KiCad to PNG files for Fab Modules

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gerber2png

Converts Gerber files from KiCad to PNG files for Fab Modules

For makers visiting a fablab that uses fabmodules for PCB manufacturing. The toolchain is expecting you to use Cadsoft Eagle for your PCB designs. Eagle has a png export that plays nice with the fabmodules png2rml.

Unfortunately, KiCad users a left stranded. This project hopes to help those using it to generate the right files to mill your PCB with fabmodules.

Export your pcb design from KiCad to the industry standard Gerber format. gerber2png then takes your gerber files and greates two png files from it. One png is for milling the traces, the other one is for the holes and outline.

KiCad Settings for Gerber export

written for Build (2013-jul-07)-stable of Pcbnew

  • Use the "Set the origin point for the grid" tool to set the origin in the lower left point of the pcb edge.

  • Use the "Place the origin point for drill and place files" tools to to set the origin in the lower left point of the pcb edge.

  • Open the Export dialog via File > Plot

  • Plot format: Gerber

  • Set the output directory, usually "plots/". Say yes to relative path.

  • Mark the copper and mechanical layers you want to export. Usually F.Cu, B.Cu and Edge.Cuts.

  • Enable "Use Auxilliary axis as origin"

  • Enable "Use proper filename extensions"

  • Press Plot to generate the gerber files.

  • Next, press "Generate drill file".

  • Set the output directory, usually "plots/". Say yes to relative path.

  • Drill units: Inches.

  • Zeros format: Keep zeros

  • Drill map file format: Gerber

  • Enable "Mirror y axis"

  • Drill origin: Auxiliary axis

  • Press Drill file to generate the drill file.

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[Python] Converts Gerber files from KiCad to PNG files for Fab Modules

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