/importing-kicad-projects

name: importing-kicad-projects
description: Imports KiCad projects and schematics into the current repository. Use when asked to import or convert an existing KiCad design.

Importing KiCad Projects

Import

Preserve the original source and import into the current repository root:

pcb import /path/to/design.kicad_pro .

Use `.kicad_pro` for a complete project, or the root `.kicad_sch` for a schematic-only request. Keep child sheets and local libraries together; do not silently drop the PCB or reconstruct the design.

Inspect existing content before using `--force`. Use it for an untouched starter board or an already-authorized replacement; otherwise ask before overwriting user work. Checkpoint affected files first: a failed import can leave partial output.

Verify and report

pcb build <board>.zen -S bom.unspecified -S bom.underspecified

Read the import diagnostics and, on success, `.kicad.import.extraction.json`. Inspect schematic and PCB previews for import losses. Source ERC/DRC and schematic/PCB parity findings are advisory; do not bypass generated connectivity mismatches or present partial output as a completed import.

Report what imported, what is missing, and any blockers. Missing sourcing data does not block structural verification; complete BOM sourcing or manufacturing checks when requested. Import success does not establish manufacturing readiness.