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How to import into KiCad (V6 and later)?
How to import into KiCad (V6 and later)?

Import Steps For KiCad (V6 and later)

Ron Publico avatar
Written by Ron Publico
Updated over a year ago

Import Symbols

Using the *.kicad_sym file:

  1. Extract the content of the downloaded *.zip file.

  2. In KiCad, go to Preferences.

  3. Click on Manage Symbol Libraries.

  4. On the Global Libraries tab, click on Browse Libraries (the small folder icon below)

  5. Select the .kicad_sym file, then click Open.

  6. The library will appear, click OK.

  7. Click on Symbol Editor.

  8. Type on the filter search field, and navigate to the symbol you imported. Double-click over it to open the file.

Import Footprints

Using the *.kicad_mod file:

  1. Extract the content of the downloaded *.zip file.

  2. In KiCad, go to Preferences.

  3. Click on Manage Footprint Libraries.

  4. On the Global Libraries tab, click on Browse Libraries (the small folder icon below)

  5. Navigate to the Folder where the .kicad_mod file is located. Then click Select Folder.
    ​
    **NOTE: You will not normally see the .kicad_mod file on this step because you need to select the folder where it is located.

  6. The library will appear, click OK. 

    NOTE: If the path doesn't have the same name. you can rename it as the part.

  7. Click on Footprint Editor.

  8. Type on the filter search field, and navigate to the footprint you imported. Double-click over it to open the file.

NEXT: How to import a 3D model in KiCad?

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