PCB example board

This repo demonstrates designing PCBs with the Zener language (.zen) and the open-source pcb compiler. You describe parts and connectivity in .zen, compose them into boards, and generate KiCad projects for layout/manufacturing.

Prerequisites

To recreate this example step by step, visit the tutorial

For the most up to date information, visit our documentation at docs.pcb.new

The open source PCB compiler is available at github.com/diodeinc/pcb

1. KiCad 9.0
   • Required for PCB layout
   • Download from KiCad website

Project Structure

.
├── README.md
├── components              # Physical items on the PCB that usually don't have an existing generic
├── modules                 # Reusable pieces of Zener that can be composed of one or more components or other modules
├── boards                  # Board compositions (.zen)
└── pcb.toml                # Workspace + dependencies

What is a .zen file?

• Component(...): Defines a part by symbol/footprint and pins
• io(...): Declares typed ports/nets (e.g., Net, Ground)
• Module("path"): Reuses another .zen module
• Wiring: Connect modules/components by shared nets
• Layout(...): Hints where to emit previews/outputs

See modules/Antenna.zen, modules/SMAConnector.zen, and the composed board boards/EX0001/EX0001.zen for examples.

Typical workflow

1. Install the pcb compiler and KiCad 9 (see docs link above)
2. Explore modules in modules/ and the board in boards/EX0001/EX0001.zen
3. Run the compiler, targeting the board .zen, to generate outputs (KiCad project, previews, docs). Refer to the docs for exact commands on your platform
4. Open the generated KiCad project to place/route

Notes:

• pcb.toml declares the workspace and pulls the Zener stdlib
• A spec is included at boards/EX0001/docs/spec.md

Goals of this example

• Model reusable hardware blocks in .zen
• Compose modules into a complete board
• Produce KiCad files from a high-level Zener description