external-dfm

Run KiBot and Tracespace in Docker to validate PCB manufacturing data.

2|Updated Feb 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo --skill external-dfm
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: external-dfm
Source: https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo/tree/main/.claude/skills/external-dfm
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo --skill external-dfm

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Provides external DFM analysis for PCBs by running KiBot and Tracespace in Docker to validate manufacturing data, complementing internal checks.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • KiBot DRC, ERC, and design report validation
  • Tracespace gerber validation
  • BOM cross-check against a reference BOM
  • Output artifacts stored under external-dfm-output
  • Use case: after internal verify passes, run external verification for a second opinion on manufacturability.

Quick Start

Run the external DFM script to spin up the container and execute all checks against the current KiCad project.

Frequently Asked Questions about external-dfm

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I run external DFM verification on KiCad PCB designs before production?

Run external DFM verification by executing a script that spins up a Docker container to run KiBot and Tracespace checks against your KiCad project. This generates DRC, ERC, gerber validation logs, and BOM cross-check artifacts in the output directory.

Can I use Docker to validate Gerber files and run DRC checks independently?

Yes, Docker isolates the DFM validation tooling to independently verify Gerber files and run DRC checks. By using KiBot and Tracespace inside a container, you get reproducible manufacturing validation results without local tool installation conflicts.

What is third-party PCB DFM validation and when do I need it?

Third-party PCB DFM validation provides an independent second opinion on manufacturability by checking designs with external tooling. You need it after internal verification passes to catch manufacturing issues using isolated containerized checks like DRC and ERC.

Does this external DFM approach cross-check my BOM against a reference design?

Yes, the external DFM process includes a BOM cross-check against a reference BOM. This validation runs inside Docker alongside KiBot DRC and Tracespace Gerber checks to ensure manufacturing data consistency before production.

What outputs do I get from running containerized KiBot and Tracespace checks?

You get DRC and ERC design reports, Tracespace Gerber validation logs, and BOM cross-check artifacts. All output files from the external DFM verification are stored under the external-dfm-output directory for review.

Why use Docker for PCB DFM analysis instead of local verification tools?

Docker provides reproducible containerized tooling for PCB DFM analysis, ensuring consistent validation environments. It isolates KiBot and Tracespace execution to deliver independent third-party verification results, complementing your internal design checks.