KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design

What is KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design?

KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design is a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that enables AI assistants like Claude to interact with KiCAD for PCB design automation. Built on the MCP 2025-06-18 specification, it provides comprehensive tool schemas and real-time project state access, allowing users to design PCBs using natural language.

How to use KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design?

Install KiCAD 9.0+, Node.js 18+, and Python 3.11+. Clone the repository, run npm install and npm run build, then configure your AI client (e.g., GitHub Copilot in VS Code or Claude Desktop) using the provided example config files. The server handles project setup, schematic editing, component placement, routing, DRC/ERC, and export through MCP tools.

Key features of KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design

• Natural language PCB design via AI assistants
• Custom symbol and footprint generation
• Personal library management for reuse
• JLCPCB parts catalog with pricing and stock
• Freerouting integration for automatic routing
• Visual feedback with snapshots and session logs
• Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)

Use cases of KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design

• Rapid prototyping by describing a circuit and letting AI place components and route traces
• Automating repetitive tasks like DRC/ERC checks and manufacturing file export
• Creating custom symbols and footprints for non-standard modules
• Integrating real-time JLCPCB component pricing and availability into the design flow

FAQ from KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design

What is the relationship between KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design and Konnect?

Konnect is a newer Rust-based rewrite built as a native KiCAD 10 plugin with 171 tools, bundled agents, and AGPL-3.0 licensing. This Python/TypeScript server remains fully open (MIT) and is still maintained.

What are the system requirements?

KiCAD 9.0+, Node.js 18+, and Python 3.11+. The server runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS.

How do I configure it with Claude Desktop?

Edit the Claude Desktop config file (claude_desktop_config.json) located at %APPDATA%\Claude\ on Windows or ~/.config/claude/ on macOS/Linux, using the example configs provided in the repository.

Can KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design generate custom symbols and footprints?

Yes, it includes dedicated tools for creating custom symbols and footprints for modules not in the standard KiCAD library, and supports personal library management.

Is KiCAD MCP: AI-Assisted PCB Design cross-platform?

Yes, it supports Windows, Linux, and macOS.