Troubleshooting

Common issues and how to resolve them.

Installation Issues

macOS: "Trace is damaged and can't be opened"

This happens when macOS quarantines apps downloaded from the internet. To fix:

1. Open Terminal
2. Run: xattr -cr /Applications/Trace.app
3. Try opening Trace again

macOS: "Trace can't be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software"

Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security, scroll down and click "Open Anyway" next to the Trace message.

Windows: SmartScreen warning

Click "More info" then "Run anyway". This warning appears because Trace is new and hasn't built up reputation with Microsoft yet.

Performance Issues

Trace is running slowly

• Close other resource-intensive applications
• Ensure you have at least 4GB of free RAM
• For large designs, consider splitting into hierarchical sheets
• Disable 3D view when not needed

High CPU usage during idle

This can happen if auto-save is running frequently. Go to Preferences → General and increase the auto-save interval.

Project Issues

Project won't open

• Check if the project file (.kicad_pro) exists and isn't corrupted
• Try opening the schematic (.kicad_sch) or PCB (.kicad_pcb) file directly
• Check for backup files in the project directory

Missing libraries or footprints

If components show as missing:

1. Go to Preferences → Manage Symbol Libraries / Footprint Libraries
2. Verify the library paths are correct
3. Re-add any missing libraries from the Trace library collection

Schematic and PCB out of sync

Run Tools → Update PCB from Schematic to synchronize changes. If issues persist, check the annotation and footprint assignments in the schematic.

Export Issues

Gerber files rejected by manufacturer

• Verify you're using the correct layer mapping for your manufacturer
• Check that drill files are included and in the correct format (Excellon)
• Ensure board outline is on the Edge.Cuts layer
• Verify units match manufacturer requirements (usually mm)

BOM export missing components

Components need proper values and footprints assigned. Check that all components have:

• A reference designator (R1, C1, U1, etc.)
• A value field populated
• A footprint assigned

Network Issues

Can't connect to Trace services

• Check your internet connection
• Verify firewall isn't blocking Trace
• Try disabling VPN if you're using one
• Check status.buildwithtrace.com for service status

Still Having Issues?

If you can't find a solution here:

• Check our Discord community for help from other users
• Email us at hello@buildwithtrace.com with details about your issue

When reporting issues, please include:

• Your operating system and version
• Trace version (Help → About)
• Steps to reproduce the issue
• Any error messages you see