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pcb-routing

Translate KiCAD MCP routing actions into deterministic Manhattan PCB traces.

2|Updated Feb 8, 2026
Search Tags:#automation#routing#pcb#kicad#manhattan#vias#diff-pair
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo --skill pcb-routing
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: pcb-routing
Source: https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo/tree/main/.claude/skills/pcb-routing
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pjcau/esp32-emu-turbo --skill pcb-routing

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Map KiCAD MCP routing tools to our project's programmatic trace routing infrastructure. This enables repeatable, script-driven PCB trace generation instead of manual routing.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Manhattan routing: all traces are orthogonal to simplify manufacturing.
  • Width classes: W_PWR, W_SIG, W_DATA, W_AUDIO define distinct trace thicknesses.
  • Board geometry and constraints: board size 160 x 75 mm, four-layer stack, and a defined FPC slot to avoid traces.
  • MCP tool mapping: routes, vias, copper pours, and netclass adjustments via routing.py primitives.
  • Differential-pair routing: supports USB D+/D- style pairs and matched lengths.

Quick Start

Run the routing generator to create all Manhattan traces for the KiCAD project from the current netlist.

Frequently Asked Questions about pcb-routing

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I automate PCB trace routing in KiCAD?▼

You can automate PCB trace routing by running a Python script that translates KiCAD MCP routing actions into a deterministic pipeline, generating orthogonal Manhattan traces directly from your current netlist.

What is Manhattan routing and how does it work for PCB traces?▼

Manhattan routing restricts all PCB traces to orthogonal segments to simplify manufacturing. The pipeline generates these segmented traces programmatically, ensuring deterministic geometry across the board layout.

Can I use this routing pipeline for a four-layer KiCAD board with vias and copper pours?▼

Yes, the pipeline supports four-layer KiCAD boards up to 160 x 75 mm and handles vias, copper pours, and an FPC slot while applying distinct width classes for power, signal, data, and audio nets.

How do I route differential pairs like USB D+ and D- in KiCAD?▼

Route differential pairs using the pipeline's built-in constraints, which support USB D+/D- style pairs with matched lengths to maintain signal integrity across the generated Manhattan traces.

How do I apply different trace widths for power and signal nets in KiCAD?▼

Apply distinct trace widths using the predefined classes W_PWR, W_SIG, W_DATA, and W_AUDIO. The routing script adjusts netclass configurations to enforce specific thicknesses for each net type.

What are the limitations of script-driven Manhattan PCB routing?▼

Limitations include board geometry constraints, requiring a four-layer stack with a defined 160 x 75 mm size and FPC slot. Traces are restricted to orthogonal segments, which may impact routing density for complex layouts.

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