Key Highlights of KiCad 8 Update

Introduction

• KiCad 8 is released and includes numerous new features.
• Insights based on using Nightly Builds for a small project.
• Chose 8 (actually more) interesting features.

Property Manager in Schematic Editor

• Property manager now integrated into the schematic editor.
• Allows direct editing of element properties without separate dialogs.
• Available in symbol and footprint editors as well.

Grid Hotkey Issue Fix

• Previous versions had issues with Grid Hotkey (N) toggling the grid unexpectedly.
• New grid override feature ensures consistency for certain operations.
• Movement of parts fixed to 50 mil grid regardless of current grid setting.
• Text designators can still use finer grids.

Alternate Pin Functions

• Supported alternate pin functions were cumbersome in earlier versions.
• Easier pin reassignments within the symbol editor.
• Right-click in schematic editor to change pin functions.
• Preferences adjustment: Schematic Editor -> Editing Options -> Uncheck "Clicking a pin selects the symbol".

Enhanced Pin Helpers

• Pins of a symbol can be selected to quickly add wires or labels.
• Labels populate automatically with pin names.
• Selecting objects: Drag-left selects any object within the box; Drag-right selects only objects entirely inside the box.

Power Symbols Customization

• Creation of power symbols simplified; can edit existing ones.
• Creates custom power nets easily.
• ERC limitation: Different capitalizations are not caught.

Improved Navigation for Large Schematics

• Search box for symbols, text objects, and labels across sheets.
• Symbols tab for view only; cannot edit fields.
• Labels tab helps in managing labels across pages.
• Net Navigator provides a tree view of net flow.

PCB Shape Related Changes

• Polygons on copper layers can be assigned to a net.
• Modification tools for polygons and rectangles: fillets, chamfers.
• Filleted polygons convert to individual segments; need conversion back to filled shapes.

Teardrops and Length-Tuning Patterns

• Built-in support for teardrops in board setup.
• Improve manufacturability of PCB.
• Length-tuning pattern improvements for better functionality.

Conclusion

• KiCad 8 includes several significant improvements, especially for the schematic editor.
• Link to official announcement blog for more details.