How to generate a BOM in KiCad 4.0

Tips,

I’m switching from KiCad 3 to KiCad 4.

While version 3 offered a simple, quite un-customizable, CSV generated BOM, version 4 now only offers a raw XML export.

As KiCad website says:

BOM generation is extensible via Python scripts or XSLT, which allows many configurable formats.

“many configurable formats” This is great! It’s even possible to use any program or language other than Python and XSLT to translate the XML in whatever format pleases you.

The downside is, it requires additional steps before you can actually generate a BOM. It seems a bit complicated but it’s not. Read below.

Continue reading How to generate a BOM in KiCad 4.0 →

Ground is Not your Negative Rail

Power Supplies, ,

Unfortunately, the PSU you just bought isn’t adequate for your Eurorack system?
It’s common to be confused by the “-V” label.

⏚≠-12V

Yes, “-V” on a PSU is a “negative” output, but only compared to the positive output. Your synth needs more!

So, what is the difference between “-V” and “ground”? How to select and use a proper power supply for your Synth?
Continue reading Ground is Not your Negative Rail →

Choosing a suitable adapter for the MDPS

Mini Dual Power Supply, Tips,

Unknown Wall Wart Adapter
If you want to power up your Mini Dual Power Supply, you need to supply it with an AC voltage on its input.
You can either use a simple transformer or, safer and easier to manage, use a AC/AC wallwart adapter.
It’s not easy sometimes to make distinction between an AC to DC adapter and an AC to AC adapter. They share the same form factor, the same look and feel. But there are clear indications to help you determine the type of each one.
Here’s a quick comparison between the two types with two example closeup pictures, one AC/DC adpater and one AC/AC adapter:
Continue reading Choosing a suitable adapter for the MDPS →