Schematics

The schematic editor is where you define the electrical connections of your circuit.

Editor Overview

The schematic editor provides a canvas for placing symbols and drawing wires. Key areas include:

• Canvas - Main drawing area
• Symbol Browser - Search and place components
• Properties Panel - Edit selected item properties
• AI Chat - Get assistance with your design

Placing Components

Add components using the symbol browser (keyboard shortcut: A) or by asking the AI. Components are placed with reference designators (R1, C1, U1, etc.) that are automatically assigned.

Drawing Wires

Connect components by drawing wires (keyboard shortcut: W). Wires snap to component pins and create electrical connections. Use labels for connections that span multiple sheets.

Hierarchical Sheets

For complex designs, organize your schematic into hierarchical sheets. Each sheet can contain a subsystem, with ports defining the interface between sheets.

Annotation

Before generating a PCB, annotate your schematic to assign unique reference designators. Use Tools > Annotate Schematic or let Trace handle it automatically.

Electrical Rules Check

Run an Electrical Rules Check (ERC) to find common errors like unconnected pins, conflicting outputs, or missing power connections.