Schematics (KiCAD to Flux)

This section dives into how to work with parts in schematics, wiring them together, and managing your Bill of Materials (BoM) in Flux.

Overview

If you’re in a hurry, here’s what you need to know:

• Everything you’ll find on the properties panel in Kicad, In Flux you can find in the inspector tab (right side of the screen) under properties. From datasheet links, properties, to live pricing.
• KiCAD supports various type of labels to connect nets. In Flux, labels are replaced by a part called “portal”. You can find portals with different symbols in the library.

Working with Parts on the Schematic

In KiCAD

In KiCad, part properties like designators, datasheets, etc., are directly accessible via the symbol properties.

In Flux

Component properties can be accessed through the inspector menu on the right side:

• Properties: equivalent to KiCAD’s symbol fields. Contains metadata info for parts, including MPN, manufacturer info, etc.
• Availability and pricing: Flux automatically displays pricing and availability information for parts with an MPN property.
• Assets: here’s where you add external assets (symbols, thumbnails, etc.) to your project or parts.
• Simulation: configure simulation parameters like speed, step, etc

Wiring Parts

In KiCAD

In KiCad, you connect parts using wires, labels (global and hierarchical), and portals.

In Flux

Flux simplifies connectivity with wires and net portals:

• Wires: hover over a part and click on the circle that appears at the end of the pin to create a wire.
• Net Portals: Use these for easy connections, including power and ground. Search “portal” in the library and drag it into your project.
• Use Power/GND portals for managing power distribution. The work exactly as net portals, but have a power/GND symbol for better legibility.

Managing the Bill of Materials (BoM)

In KiCAD

You can generate your BoM using the “Generate BoM” menu. BoMs are generated based on customized scripts.

In Flux

BoMs are automatically generated and exportable in various formats for the main manufacturers.

Next in the KiCad to Flux tutorial -> Layout (KiCAD to Flux)