Introduction

Zeo is an open source fork of KiCad with a focus on automation and AI features. It brings intelligent automation to electronic design — from schematic capture through PCB layout and manufacturing file generation.

What is Zeo?

Zeo builds on KiCad's schematic editor, PCB editor, and 3D viewer, adding:

• AI Agent — A sidebar assistant with 40+ tools that can design full PCBs from start to finish, including component placement, wiring, library generation, design rule checks, and manufacturing file export
• Library Generation — Automatically create schematic symbols and PCB footprints from component datasheets
• Auto Constraint — AI-powered net class generation that analyzes your design and creates appropriate trace widths, clearances, and routing rules
• Terminal Apps — Zeo Shell (Python IPC), Zeo Tool (run agent tools from terminal), and Zeo Monitor (view tool output)
• Expanded Python API — Full programmatic access to KiCad's schematic and PCB editors via the expanded kipy IPC library

Why Zeo?

KiCad is an excellent EDA tool, but as designs become more complex, engineers need better tools to manage that complexity. Zeo aims to:

1. Provide a reliable tool with modern features — The agent handles component placement, wiring, annotation, and export while you maintain full control over your design
2. Lower the barrier to entry for first-time designers — Natural language interaction and intelligent suggestions make professional EDA accessible to beginners
3. Catch errors early — AI-assisted ERC and DRC with intelligent suggestions help identify issues before they become costly problems

Getting Started

Ready to get started? Check out the Getting Started guide to install Zeo and begin designing.