Alternate KiCad Library

User Manual

Table of Contents:
1. Introduction 3
1.1 Example project 4
2. Symbol libraries overview 5
2.1 Device_AKL 6
2.2 Diode_AKL 7
2.3 Diode_Schottky_AKL 8
2.4 Diode_Zener_AKL 9
2.5 Diode_TVS_AKL 10
2.6 Diode_Capacitance_AKL 11
2.7 Diode_Bridge_AKL 12
2.8 Diode_Current_Limiting_AKL 13
2.9 Diac_AKL 14
2.10 Thyristor_AKL 15
2.11 Triac_AKL 16
2.12 Transistor_BJT_AKL 17
2.13 Transistor_BJT_Darlington_AKL 20
2.14 Transistor_BJT_Pre-Biased_AKL 21
2.15 Transistor_MOSFET_AKL 22
2.16 Transistor_JFET_AKL 23
2.17 Transistor_IGBT_AKL 24
2.18 Optocoupler_AKL 25
2.19 Optocoupler_Logic_AKL 26
2.20 Optocoupler_Triac_AKL 27
2.21 Optocoupler_Gate_Driver_AKL 28
2.22 Optocoupler_Misc_AKL 29
3. Footprint libraries overview 30
3.1 Footprint library variants 31
3.2 Capacitor_SMD_AKL 33
3.3 Capacitor_Tantalum_SMD_AKL 34
3.4 Capacitor_THT_AKL 35
3.5 Crystal_AKL 36
3.6 Diode_SMD_AKL 37

Page 1 of 61
 3.7 Diode_THT_AKL 38
3.8 Ferrite_SMD_AKL 39
3.9 Ferrite_THT_AKL 40
3.10 Fuse_AKL 41
3.11 Inductor_SMD_AKL 42
3.12 Inductor_THT_AKL 43
3.13 Jumper_AKL 44
3.14 Optocoupler_AKL 45
3.15 Package_CSP_AKL 46
3.16 Package_DFN_QFN_AKL 47
3.17 Package_DIP_AKL 48
3.18 Package_LCC_AKL 49
3.19 Package_QFP_AKL 50
3.20 Package_SO_AKL 51
3.21 Package_SON_AKL 52
3.22 Package_TO_SOT_SMD 53
3.23 Package_TO_SOT_THT 54
3.24 Resistor_SMD_AKL 55
3.25 Resistor_THT_AKL 56
4. Installation instructions 57
4.1 Installation using KiCad’s Plugin and Content Manager 57
4.2 Manual Installation 58
4.3 Customizing your library table 59
5. License 61
6. Contact info 61

Page 2 of 61
1. Introduction
Alternate KiCad Library is a massive symbol and footprint library
containing refreshed, new symbols and footprints for KiCad focused on
improving Schematic and PCB readability and aesthetics, mainly intended
for hobbyist use.

AKL started as a modification of the KiCad library, where select footprints

received new silkscreen markings helpful during hand-assembly.
The list of footprints that have been modified and added has been greatly
expanded, along with brand new footprints and footprint libraries.
Double-layer silkscreen variants have been added where symbols have
additional information on the bottom silkscreen layer for easier
troubleshooting. Refer to Section 3 for more.

Alternate KiCad Library now contains massive symbol library

(over 20 000 symbols as of version 2.0) with Diodes, Transistors, SCRs
and Optocouplers. Each symbol is a separate orderable part number
(example 1N4001, 1N4002, 1N4003 etc.), each has pre-assigned
footprint and a datasheet link. Refer to Section 2 for more.

This third-party library was not created up to the same quality standard
as the first-party KiCad library, wide range of errors might be present.
(improper footprint assigned to a symbol, wrong pinout, incorrect
footprint dimensions just to name a few)
While using AKL please pay attention and double-check that a symbol:
Has the correct pin arrangement. (Most symbols have pin numbers
visible, so it’s easy to check)
Has the correct footprint assigned in the symbol properties. (Symbol
description always states the footprint, but might not always agree with
the pre-assigned footprint)
Also check that the footprint has correct pad/hole spacing referencing the
part’s datasheet.
If you find any errors in this library please, check that you have the
newest version installed and if the issues were not yet resolved feel free
to report them via the contact info at the end of this document. I will do
my best to fix any errors and publish a new update as soon as possible.

This library uses the same license as first-party KiCad Library, you can
freely use it in your designs while retaining full rights to any schematics
or PCBs made using this library. See Section 5 for more details.

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1.1 Example project showcasing some of the AKL features

Schematic (Modified diode and transistor symbols)

PCB top view (Updated silkscreen layer)

PCB bottom view (Silkscreen on the bottom side of the PCB)

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2. Symbol Libraries Overview
Symbol libraries consist of:
- Generic symbols
- Specific part symbols

Generic symbols will only contain graphics and basic description, they are
mostly intended to be used as a foundation for specific part symbols.
Example: D_Generic (generic diode symbol)

Specific part symbols are usually aliases of a generic symbol and have:
- Name identical to a specific part number.
- Pre-assigned correct footprint for that specific part number
- Datasheet link
- Basic description
Example: 1N4148W (Specific diode in a SOD-123 package)

Parts that can be divided into separate parts (for example: triple diodes)
will have separate multi-part symbol denoted by a single lowercase “s” at
the end of the symbol name.
Example:
BAT54TW (on the left) is a single symbol.
BAT54TWs (on the right) is a multi-unit symbol.

Parts with multiple pads used for the same connection will have them
explicitly visible and accessible.
Example: IRL6342 is a MOSFET in a SO-8 package, with multiple package
pins connected do drain and source.

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2.1 Device_AKL symbol library description
Device_AKL contains new generic ferrite bead symbols:

Double and Quadruple variant of the ferrite bead with multi-unit

symbols are also available.

New ferrite symbols are quite similar to the standard fuse symbol,
alternative fuse symbol has been added to reduce confusion:

New Fuse_AKL, Ferrite_THT_AKL and Ferrite_SMD_AKL footprint

libraries have been added and are consistent with these new symbols.
See sections 3.8, 3.9 and 3.10 for more.

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2.2 Diode_AKL symbol library description
Diode_AKL adds new generic symbols for diodes and around 2000
specific part symbols.
Some of the new diode symbols:

All specific part diodes have their footprint, device class (fast recovery,
low leakage etc.) and current/voltage rating in the symbol description.

Diode symbols without pin numbers always have cathode on pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT and SMD Diodes use the standard diode footprints.
THT TO/SOT Diodes use the appropriate package variant with diode
configuration indicated.
See section 3, 3.6, 3.7 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.3 Diode_Schottky_AKL symbol library description
Diode_Schottky_AKL adds new generic symbols for Schottky diodes
and around 1700 specific part symbols.
Some of the new Schottky diode symbols:

All specific part Schottky diodes have their footprint and

current/voltage rating in the symbol description.

Schottky diode symbols without pin numbers always have cathode on

pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT Schottky diodes use the “Schottky” variant of a standard diode
footprint, SMD Schottky diodes use standard footprints.
THT TO/SOT Schottky diodes use the appropriate package variant with
diode configuration indicated.
See section 3, 3.6, 3.7 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.4 Diode_Zener_AKL symbol library description
Diode_Zener_AKL adds new generic symbols for Zener diodes and
around 3250 specific part symbols.
Some of the new Zener diode symbols:

All specific part Zener diodes have their footprint, breakdown voltage
and power rating in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for Zener diodes is DZ.

Zener diode symbols without pin numbers always have cathode on

pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT Zener diodes use the “Zener” variant of a standard diode
footprint, SMD Zener diodes use standard footprints.
See section 3, 3.6 and 3.7 for available footprint variants.

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2.5 Diode_TVS_AKL symbol library description
Diode_TVS_AKL adds new generic symbols for unidirectional and
bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes and arrays
totaling around 3100 specific part symbols.
Some of the new TVS diode symbols:

All specific part TVS diodes and arrays have their footprint, intented
use case, breakdown voltage and peak power rating in the symbol
description.

Unidirectional TVS diode symbols without pin numbers always have

cathode on pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT Unidirectional TVS diodes use the “Zener” variant of a standard
diode footprint, THT Bidirectional TVS diodes use the “TVS” variant of a
standard diode footprint. SMD Unidirectional TVS diodes use the
standard diode footprint, SMD Bidirectional TVS diodes use the “TVS”
variant of a standard diode footprint.
See section 3, 3.6 and 3.7 for available footprint variants.

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2.6 Diode_Capacitance_AKL symbol library description
Diode_Capacitance_AKL adds new generic symbols for capacitance
diodes and 30 specific part symbols.
Some of the new capacitance diode symbols:

All specific part capacitance diodes have their footprint, maximum

reverse voltage, current rating and highest achievable capacitance in
the symbol description.

Capacitance diode symbols without pin numbers always have cathode

on pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT and SMD Capacitance diodes use the standard diode footprints.
See section 3, 3.6 and 3.7 for available footprint variants.

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2.7 Diode_Bridge_AKL symbol library description
Diode_Bridge_AKL adds new generic symbols for full bridge rectifiers
and around 800 specific part symbols.
Some of the new bridge rectifier symbols:

All specific part bridge rectifiers have current and voltage ratings in the
symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT and SMD Bridges use the standard bridge footprints.
See section 3 and 3.7 for available footprint variants.

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2.8 Diode_Current_Limiting_AKL symbol library description
Diode_Current_Limiting_AKL adds new generic symbols for current
limiting diodes (current regulating diodes) and 12 specific part
symbols.
Some of the new current limiting diode symbols:

All specific part current limiting diodes have their footprints, current,
voltage and power ratings in the symbol description.

Current limiting diode symbols without pin numbers always have

cathode on pin 1.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT and SMD Current limiting diodes use the standard diode
footprints.

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2.9 Diac_AKL symbol library description
Diac_AKL adds new generic symbols for diacs (AC trigger diodes) and
10 specific part symbols.
Some of the new diac symbols:

All specific part diacs have their footprints, voltage and current ratings
in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT Diacs use the “Diac” variant of a standard diode footprint, SMD
Diacs use the “TVS” variant of a standard diode footprint.
See section 3 and 3.6, 3.7 for available footprint variants.

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2.10 Thyristor_AKL symbol library description
Thyristor_AKL adds new generic symbols for silicon controlled rectifiers
(SCRs) and around 250 specific part symbols.
Some of the new thyristor symbols:

All specific part thyristors have their footprints, current and voltage
ratings in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for thyristors is Q.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT thyristors use variants with Anode, Cathode and Gate indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.11 Triac_AKL symbol library description
Thyristor_AKL adds new generic symbols for silicon controlled rectifiers
(SCRs) and around 250 specific part symbols.
Some of the new thyristor symbols:

All specific part triacs have their footprints, current and voltage ratings
in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for triacs is Q.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT triacs use variants with Anode and Gate indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.12 Transistor_BJT_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_BJT_AKL adds new generic symbols for bipolar junction
transistors (BJTs) and arrays with around 1300 specific part symbols.
Some of the new single transistor symbols:

PNP transistors by default are flipped along the X-axis, because usually
voltage on the emitter is higher than on the collector. This helps during
schematic capture where it is a good practice to have higher voltage
nets drawn higher on the schematic.

Some of the new dual transistor symbols:

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Standard dual transistors come in both single- and multi-unit variants,
with distinct symbols to indicate that these devices share a package.
Dual matched transistors have additional variants with wider spacing
between transistors in a single-unit symbol for added flexibility while
drafting differential amplifiers.
Complementary dual transistors come with 2 single-unit symbol
variants, standard variant is most suitable for drawing complementary
drivers/power amplifiers, while the “-H” variant is most suitable for
drawing H-Bridges, see the schematic examples below:

Q1 is an example of using “-2” variant of BCM847BS to draw a clearer

and more reader-friendly differential amplifier schematic.
Q2 and Q3 are examples of using the “-H” variant of BC817DFN to
draw a DC motor control circuit.
Q4 is an example of using standard variant of BC817DFN as part of a
power amplifier.

Page 18 of 61
Some of the new transistor array symbols:

All specific part transistors have their footprints, device type, current,
voltage and power ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Base, Collector and Emitter
indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.13 Transistor_BJT_Darlington_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_BJT_Darlington_AKL adds new generic symbols for
Darlington transistors and around 200 specific part symbols.
Some of the new Darlington symbols:

All specific part Darlington transistors have their footprints, current,

voltage and power ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Base, Collector and Emitter
indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.14 Transistor_BJT_Pre-Biased_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_BJT_Pre-Biased_AKL adds new generic symbols for Bias-
Resistor Transistors (BRTs) and around 530 specific part symbols.
Some of the new BRT symbols:

All specific part Bias Resistor Transistors have their footprints, current,
voltage and power ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Base, Collector and Emitter
indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.15 Transistor_MOSFET_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_MOSFET_AKL adds new generic symbols for
Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs) and
around 6100 specific part symbols.
Some of the new MOSFET symbols:

New MOSFET symbols have the body diode omitted, instead the gate
terminal has been shifted closer to source, and P-MOSFETs start with
source on the top of the symbol.

Depletion mode transistors have solid channel line, MOSFETs with

kelvin connection have the sense pin indicated.

All specific part MOSFETs have their footprints, mode, current, voltage
and power ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Gate, Drain and Source indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.16 Transistor_JFET_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_JFET_AKL adds new generic symbols for Junction Field
Effect Transistors (JFETs) and around 120 specific part symbols.
Some of the new JFET symbols:

The new JFET symbols have the gate terminal moved closer to source,
although JFETs by definition are symmetrical, distinguishing source
and drain might have some advantages.

All specific part JFETs have their footprints, saturation current, voltage
and power ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Gate, Drain and Source indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.17 Transistor_IGBT_AKL symbol library description
Transistor_IGBT_AKL adds new generic symbols for Insulated Gate
Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) and around 650 specific part symbols.
Some of the new IGBT symbols:

The new IGBT symbols have been completely changed, devices with
integrated anti-parallel diode have it visibly indicated on the symbol.

All specific part IGBTs have their footprints, current, voltage and power
ratings in the symbol description.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

THT transistors use variants with Gate, Collector and Emitter
indicators.
See section 3 and 3.23 for available footprint variants.

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2.18 Optocoupler_AKL
Optocoupler_AKL adds new generic symbols for transistor-output
optocouplers and around 1400 specific part symbols.
Some of the new optocoupler symbols:

All specific part optocouplers have their footprints, isolation voltage

and response times in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for optocouplers is OC.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

Default THT optocouplers use the “LongPads” DIP package variant.
See section 3 and 3.17 for available footprint variants.

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2.19 Optocoupler_Logic_AKL symbol library description
Optocoupler_Logic_AKL adds new generic symbols for logic-output
optocouplers and around 280 specific part symbols.
Some of the new optocoupler symbols:

The new optocoupler symbols clearly portray the output configuration:

Dot at the output of the detector gate indicates that output is low
when the LED current is high.
The symbol indicates open collector/drain output.

All specific part optocouplers have their footprints, isolation voltage

and data rate/propagation delay in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for optocouplers is OC.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

Default THT optocouplers use the “LongPads” DIP package variant.
See section 3 and 3.17 for available footprint variants.

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2.20 Optocoupler_Triac_AKL symbol library description
Optocoupler_Triac_AKL adds new generic symbols for phototriacs and
around 300 specific part symbols.
Some of the new phototriac symbols:

All specific part phototriacs have their footprints, isolation voltage and
detector current/voltage rating in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for phototriacs is OC.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

Default THT optocouplers use the “LongPads” DIP package variant.
See section 3 and 3.17 for available footprint variants.

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2.21 Optocoupler_Gate_Driver_AKL symbol library description
Optocoupler_Gate_Driver_AKL adds new generic symbols for
optocouplers designed for driving MOSFETs and IGBTs and
around 80 specific part symbols.
Some of the new gate drive optocoupler symbols:

Gate driver symbol is visibly distinct from the ones used in logic
optocouplers.

All specific part gate drive optocouplers have their footprints, isolation
voltage, peak output current and switching frequency/times in the
symbol description.

Default reference designator for gate drive optocouplers is OC.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

Default THT optocouplers use the “LongPads” DIP package variant.
See section 3 and 3.17 for available footprint variants.

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2.22 Optocoupler_Misc_AKL symbol library description
Optocoupler_Misc_AKL adds new generic symbols for miscellaneous
opto-isolation devices that don’t fit in with previous categories and
around 100 specific part symbols.
Some of the new gate drive optocoupler symbols:

Each device has the detector configuration indicated in a way that

helps identify the device type (isolated error amplifier, photovoltaic
output optocoupler etc.)

All specific optocouplers have their footprints, device types and

relevant parameters listed in the symbol description.

Default reference designator for optocouplers is OC.

Correct footprints are pre-assigned to each specific part symbol.

Default THT optocouplers use the “LongPads” DIP package variant.
See section 3 and 3.17 for available footprint variants.

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3. Footprint Libraries Overview
AKL footprint libraries have been derived from the first-party KiCad
Library. Switching between AKL and vanilla KiCad during layout can be
easily achieved by using the “Change Footprint” menu in the footprint
properties and pasting or deleting “_AKL” at the end of library name in
the “New footprint library id:” text field. (Always verify that the new
footprint is actually there by pressing the icon. If you changed the
nicknames of any libraries in your library table you need to change the
name of the library according to your naming scheme).

AKL Footprint Libraries have been modified to provide

- More information on the silkscreen layer.
- More aestethically pleasing silkscreen drawings of various devices.
- More pin pitch options for THT devices.
- More footprint variants for different devices (See Section 3.1)

Examples:
DIN0207 THT Resistors, AKL on the right vs first-party KiCad on the left

Zener diode, Bipolar Transistor and a TQFP-48 IC, AKL on the right and
first-party KiCAD on the left.

Page 30 of 61
3.1 Footprint Library Variants
Some footprint libraries are provided in multiple variants, Description
of each footprint library will state if any variants are available.

“HandSoldering” Variant
This library contains SMD footprints with silkscreen under the parts,
this helps identify which component goes where, especially on PCBs
without reference designators laid out. The main problem with this
approach is that during machine soldering non-zero thickness of the
silkscreen drawing means that the metal contacts of the part don’t
always contact the pads, which leads to “tombstoning”. If you intend
to hand-solder your boards it is safe to use this variant, otherwise use
the standard library.

Example:
Standard footprints on the left, HandSoldering footprints on the right

Please note that very small footprints don’t have any silkscreen under
them, even though they are included in the “HandSoldering Library”

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“Double” Variant
Have you ever come across old single-layer PCBs with silkscreen on
both sides? You could easily follow the circuit without flipping the
board, just by looking at the bottom side. With this variant you can
recreate that effect:

Example:
Same PCB, view from top and bottom.

Bottom silkscreen will contain simplified symbol of the component as to

not needlessly clutter up the bottom of the PCB. This variant is not
recommended if you plan on using double-sided mixed THT/SMD
devices in your design, as bottom layer will be taken up by silkscreen
from components placed on the top layer.

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3.2 Capacitor_SMD_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD capacitor and trimmer
footprints.
“HandSoldering” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

Chip capacitors have a distinct rounded outline, while trimmers have

solid outline with direction marks where applicable.

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3.3 Capacitor_Tantalum_SMD_AKL
This footprint library contains modified SMD tantalum capacitor
footprints.
“HandSoldering” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

Tantalum capacitors have 2 polarity marks, plus sign near the positive
pad and two rectangles in line with the stripe on the capacitor
package.

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3.4 Capacitor_THT_AKL
This footprint library contains modified THT capacitor footprints.
“Double” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

All non-polarized capacitors, trimmers and axial electrolytic capacitors

have their symbol printed under the part. All polarized capacitors have
a plus sign near the positive pad in addition to any other polarity
marks. Radial electrolytic capacitors have a filled polygon on the
negative side of the part. Large axial and horizontal radial parts have
optional holes for soldering-in support wires.

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3.5 Crystal_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified crystal and crystal oscillator
footprints.

Footprint examples below:

THT footprints have crystal symbols under the parts, SMD footprints
have solid outline with a dot marking the pin 1 if applicable.

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3.6 Diode_SMD_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD diode and diode bridge
footprints.

“HandSoldering” variant is available

Footprint examples below:

All SMD diode footprints now have a solid outline with 2 rectangles that
line up with the cathode mark on standard diodes. TVS footprint
variants are used by bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressors that
don’t have polarity, more diode variants are available in the
“HandSoldering” library. Diode bridges have their pinout indicated with
“+”, “-” and “~” marks.

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3.7 Diode_THT_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified THT diode and diode bridge
footprints.

“Double” variant is available

Footprint examples below:

All THT diode footprints now have their respective symbol on the
silkscreen, with Zener, TVS and Diac variants available. New SOD-57
and SOD-64 packages have been added. Diode bridges have their
polarity marked with “+”, “-” “AC”. New three-phase bridge rectifier
footprints have been added.

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3.8 Ferrite_SMD_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains SMD ferrite bead footprints.

“HandSoldering” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

All SMD ferrite footprints have a solid outline. “HandSoldering” library

variant has the new ferrite symbols printed under the parts.

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3.9 Ferrite_THT_AKL
This footprint library contains new THT ferrite bead and filter
footprints.

Footprint examples below:

All THT ferrite bead footprints have the new symbol printed on the
silkscreen, many different sizes and configuration are available.

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3.10 Fuse_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified THT and SMD fuse and fuse
holder footprints.

“HandSoldering” and “Double” variants are available

Footprint examples below:

All THT fuses have their symbol on the silkscreen layer under the part,
SMD fuses have a solid outline.

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3.11 Inductor_SMD_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD inductor footprints.

“HandSoldering” variant is available

Footprint examples below:

Most SMD inductors and common-mode chokes have solid outlines,

common-mode chokes have a dot indicating pad 1.

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3.12 Inductor_THT_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified THT inductor footprints.

“Double” variant is available

Footprint examples below:

All THT inductors have their symbols on the silkscreen layer, except
the horizontal toroids, which have their own symbolic representation.
Common-mode chokes have both dot on pin 1 and phase dots.

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3.13 Jumper_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains new THT jumpers, helpful during
single-layer PCB layout.

“Double” variant is available

Footprint examples below:

THT jumpers come in 2 thickness variants, 0.7mm and 1.2mm (hole

diameter) and pin pitches up to 30.48mm.

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3.14 Optocoupler_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains non-standard optocoupler footprints.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have the dot marking pin 1.

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3.15 Package_CSP_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD Chip Scale Packaging
footprints.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have the dot marking pad 1. Analog Devices makes ICs in
CSP packages with octagonal shape named LFCSP-VD and LFCSP-VQ,
footprints with outline following the package shape are available.

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3.16 Package_DFN_QFN_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD Dual and Quad Flat
No-Lead packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have the dot marking pad 1. Packages with exposed pad
on the bottom of the package can come in a “Thermal Via” variant that
has exposed copper on the bottom layer of the PCB. Large DFN
packages have indicator lines every 5 and 10 pads, QFN packages
have additional numbers on every corner of the package indicating
previous pad’s number.

Pin number indicators visualized:

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3.17 Package_DIP_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified DIP and SMDIP packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have a dot and an indentation marking the pin 1.

Some DIP package footprints have been elongated to match real-world
packages. (DIP-14 is actually the same length as DIP-16).
DIP packages can come in different variants:
- LongPads makes hand-soldering easier (AKL default)
- Socket has additional outline around the entire footprint
- Socket LongPads combines the previous two variants.

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3.18 Package_LCC_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified PLCC packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have a dot marking the pin 1 and a diagonal edge that
matches most PLCC packages. All footprints have indicator lines every
5 and 10 pads and additional numbers on every corner of the package
indicating previous pad’s number.
PLCC packages can come in different variants:
- SMD Socket has additional space reserved for the socket, It can be
used even if you intend to mount the IC directly to the PCB, because
pad layout is the same. Free space around PLCC package makes it
easier to hand-solder as well.
- THT Socket has no pad number markings, but still retains the dot.

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3.19 Package_QFP_AKL
This footprint library contains modified Quad Flat-Pack packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have a dot and a diagonal edge marking the pin 1.
They also have indicator lines every 5 and 10 pads and additional
numbers on every corner of the package indicating previous pad’s
number.
QFP packages with exposed pad on the bottom of the package can
come in a “Thermal Via” variant that has exposed copper on the
bottom side of the PCB.

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3.20 Package_SO_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD IC packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have a dot marking the pin 1.

Large packages also have indicator lines every 5 and 10 pads.

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3.21 Package_SON_AKL
This footprint library contains modified Small Outline No-Lead
packages.

Footprint examples below:

All footprints have a dot marking the pin 1.

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3.22 Package_TO_SOT_SMD footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified SMD transistor packages.

Footprint examples below:

Footprints have a solid outline and a dot indicating pad 1 where

necessary. TO-50 packages have multiple variants (pad length, PCB
hole, B C E indicators).

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3.23 Package_TO_SOT_THT footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified THT transistor packages.
“Double” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

Footprints come in many different variants, All common transistor and

rectifier footprints have text or graphical indicators for pin
configuration. Metal can packages can be mounted through the PCB
and soldered directly to the ground plane, TO-46 has an option for a
thermal shield (Used by LM399). Plastic TO packages have different pin
arrangements (staggered, inline etc.) and mounting orientations
(horizontal, vertical).

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3.24 Resistor_SMD_AKL
This footprint library contains modified SMD resistor and current shunt
footprints.

Footprint examples below:

Resistors have a solid outline.

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3.25 Resistor_THT_AKL footprint library description
This footprint library contains modified THT resistor footprints.
“Double” variant is available.

Footprint examples below:

Axial DIN resistor have changed outline.

“Double” variant footprints have simplified rectangular resistor symbols
on the bottom silkscreen layer.
SIP resistor network footprints have more pronounced pin 1 indicator.

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4. Installation Instructions

4.1 Installation using KiCad’s Plugin and Content Manager:

In the “Libraries” tab search for ‘Alternate KiCad Library’ and install it.

KiCAD uses library tables to keep track of installed libraries. As of

6.0.0-rc1 Content Manager DOES NOT automatically update
these library tables.
To do it manually, go to “Manage Footprint Libraries” in the
preferences tab.

Press the icon highlighted in red and locate the folder:

<KiCAD 6 user directory>\3rdparty\footprints\alternate-kicad-library

Multiple folders ending in .Pretty should be visible. Each of these is a

separate footprint library. Select all the libraries that you want to
install and press “Select Folder”.

Next, go to “Manage Symbol Libraries” in the preferences tab.

Press the icon highlighted in red and locate the folder:

<KiCAD 6 user directory>\3rdparty\symbols\alternate-kicad-library

Multiple files ending in .kicad_sym should be visible. Each of these is a

separate symbol library. Select all the libraries that you want to install
and press “Open”.

All the installed libraries should be now accessible.

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4.2 Manual installation

Extract the downloaded AKL files into any folder you want.

KiCAD uses library tables to keep track of installed libraries.

To install libraries manually, go to “Manage Footprint Libraries” in
the preferences tab.

Press the icon highlighted in red and locate the folder with the
extracted footprint library files.

Multiple folders ending in .Pretty should be visible. Each of these is a

separate footprint library. Select all the libraries that you want to
install and press “Select Folder”.

Next, go to “Manage Symbol Libraries” in the preferences tab.

Press the icon highlighted in red and locate the folder with the
extracted symbol library files.

Multiple files ending in .kicad_sym should be visible. Each of these is a

separate symbol library. Select all the libraries that you want to install
and press “Open”.

All the installed libraries should be now accessible.

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4.3 Customizing KiCad library tables.

KiCad stores information about installed symbol and footprint libraries

in library tables. You can view the table contents in the “Symbol
Library Manager” and “Footprint Library Manager”.

Nickname Field contains the name of each library, by default it is

identical to the file name. You can change it to your liking.

Library Path is the full path to the library file, usually used with a
path substitution (KICAD6_SYMBOL_DIR for default KiCad libraries,
KICAD6_3RD_PARTY for libraries downloaded using the content
manager). You can add your own path substitution in the “Configure
Paths” option in the “Preferences” tab.

Description contains short description of the library contents. It’s

blank by default for third party libraries.

On windows you can find the library tables here:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\kicad\6.0
To access the appdata folder you need to either:
- Type “%appdata%” in windows search.
- Enable “Show Hidden Files” in windows explorer options.

Library table files have no file extension but can be edited with any
text editor (Notepad):
fp-lib-table: Footprint library table
sym-lib-table: Symbol library table

Typical library table entry:

(lib (name "Filter")(type "KiCad")
(uri "${KICAD6_FOOTPRINT_DIR}/Filter.pretty")(options "")
(descr "Filter footprints"))

name “<library name>” is the Nickname field.

uri “<library path>” is the path to the library file.
descr “<description>” is the description field.

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You can paste multiple entries into the library table directly. Make sure
to delete any duplicate entries during pasting.

Footprint library table contents:

(fp_lib_table
Entry 1
Entry 2
…
Entry x
<- Paste Here
)

In the “Tables” folder of the AKL Github

(https://github.com/DawidCislo/Alternate-KiCad-Library)
there are different library table fragments that you can paste into your
library table files:

- Description_Symbols.txt and Description_Footprints.txt

Adds short descriptions to all AKL symbol and footprint libraries

- Prefix_Symbols.txt and Prefix_Footprints.txt

All AKL libraries have their nickname changed so the AKL is before the
name. Descriptions from the previous files are also present.
Example:
AKL_Diode instead of Diode_AKL.

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5. License

Alternate KiCad Library by Dawid Cisło is a derivative of KiCad Library

made by KiCad community (see: KiCad library GitLab), used under
Creative Commons CC-BY-SA 4.0 License, with the following exception:

To the extent that the creation of electronic designs that use “Licensed Material” can be
considered to be “Adapted Material”, then the copyright holder waives article 3 of the
license with respect to these designs and any generated files which use data provided as part
of the “Licensed Material”.

Additional information can be found here: KiCad libraries license

What does this mean?

You can freely use Alternate KiCad Library data for commercial, closed
and non-commercial projects without any restrictions. There is no need to
attribute this library or original KiCad libraries within your design and no
obligation to share any project files under this or any other license
agreement.

If you wish to redistribute the Alternate KiCad Library, or its parts

(including in modified form) as a collection you need to share it under the
same license agreement. Libraries must also retain attribution information
and license documents which are distributed with the library files.

6. Contact info
If you have any issues or suggestions feel free to comment on the forum
post here:
https://forum.kicad.info/t/alternate-kicad-library-2-0/32096

You can also contact me:

Via KiCAD forum – my username is Dawid_Cislo
Via EEVBlog forum – my username is Dave_C
Via e-mail – [email protected]

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