Library Generation

Zeo can automatically generate KiCad schematic symbols and PCB footprints from component datasheets. Just give the agent a datasheet link and it handles the rest.

Quick Start

The simplest way to generate a library component — give the agent a datasheet link:

"Generate a symbol and footprint from this datasheet: https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/tps563200.pdf"

The agent will:

  1. Extract pin definitions, electrical specs, and package dimensions from the PDF
  2. Generate the schematic symbol with correct pins
  3. Generate or match a PCB footprint
  4. Save both to your project libraries

You can also use a part number — the agent will search across JLCPCB, Mouser, Digi-Key, and other distributors to find the datasheet automatically. Providing the direct PDF link is faster since it skips the search step.

"Generate a symbol and footprint for the TPS563200"

Step-by-Step Workflow

1. Extract Datasheet

If the agent doesn't already have data for your component, it extracts it:

"Extract the datasheet for this component: https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/tps563200.pdf"

Extraction typically takes 5-10 seconds and produces structured data including:

  • Pin names, numbers, and types (input, output, power, ground, etc.)
  • Electrical specifications (voltage ratings, current limits)
  • Package dimensions and land pattern recommendations
  • Decoupling and placement guidelines

2. Generate Symbol

"Generate a schematic symbol for the TPS563200"

The agent creates a symbol with:

  • Pins grouped by function (power inputs, outputs, feedback, enable, ground)
  • Correct pin types (passive, input, output, power)
  • Proper pin positioning and spacing
  • Reference designator prefix (U for ICs, R for resistors, C for caps)

3. Generate Footprint

"Generate a footprint for the TPS563200"

The agent first tries to match your package to a KiCad standard library footprint. If no match is found, it generates a custom footprint with:

  • Pad dimensions from the datasheet land pattern
  • Thermal pad (if applicable)
  • Courtyard boundary
  • Fabrication layer outline
  • Assembly origin

4. Import and Place

Once generated, the symbol and footprint are saved to your project's local libraries and can be placed immediately:

"Place the TPS563200 symbol in the schematic"

Component Search

The agent has real-time access to component data from pcbparts.dev, including live inventory and pricing from JLCPCB, Mouser, Digi-Key, and other distributors. You can search by specification, then use the datasheet link from the results to generate a symbol:

"Find a 3.3V LDO in SOT-23 with at least 500mA output current"

"Generate a symbol from the datasheet for that one: https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/tps73633.pdf"

Querying Datasheet Data

After extraction, you can query the stored datasheet data:

"What are the pin definitions for the TPS563200?"

"What are the absolute maximum ratings?"

"What decoupling capacitors does the datasheet recommend?"

Library Storage

  • Symbols are saved to <project-name>.kicad_sym in the project directory
  • Footprints are saved to <project-name>.pretty/ directory
  • Library tables (sym-lib-table and fp-lib-table) are updated automatically
  • Previously extracted datasheet data is cached for reuse across projects

Supported Package Types

The footprint generator first tries to match your package to an existing KiCad standard library footprint. If no match is found, it can generate custom footprints for:

  • QFN / DFN (with thermal pad)
  • SOIC / SOP / TSSOP / MSOP / SSOP
  • QFP / LQFP / TQFP
  • BGA

Other package types (SOT, DIP, discrete passives, etc.) are matched to KiCad's built-in library footprints.

Tips

  • Provide the direct PDF URL for best extraction results
  • The agent caches extracted data — subsequent requests for the same component are instant
  • Review generated symbols before use, especially pin types and grouping
  • For complex ICs with many pins, review pin grouping carefully
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