KiCad Copilot — Claude Code MCP server: what it does, how to install
MCP server for direct editing of KiCad files. Build circuit blocks and route board traces locally using plain-language requests to your coding agent.
claude mcp add kicad-copilot -- npx -y kicad-copilot-mcpWhat KiCad Copilot does
KiCad Copilot edits .kicad_sch and .kicad_pcb files directly on disk. It runs without an active KiCad instance. Agents can find components by MPN and restructure circuit blocks without losing electrical nets.
Board layout relies on a concise JavaScript DSL. You inspect SVG or PNG previews before saving changes. Board routing runs entirely on your local machine through eda-copilot-router. The server also adds copper pours with stitching vias.
Running analyze_schematic or analyze_pcb downloads kicad-happy v2.2.0 automatically on first use. This tool provides compact design audits. For DRC checks and production file exports, your system must have kicad-cli installed.
What it helps with
- generate and wire schematic components from text prompts
- position PCB footprints using programmatic placement constraints
- route traces locally on your hardware without external APIs
- create project checkpoints to restore prior revisions
Example prompts for the agent
- Generate a 3.3V power regulator circuit with input protection headers
- Place the MCU footprints according to board constraints and render an SVG preview
- Run local board routing and generate ground copper pours with stitching vias
How to install KiCad Copilot
Platform CLI
claude mcp add kicad-copilot -- npx -y kicad-copilot-mcpPlatform CLI
codex mcp add kicad-copilot -- npx -y kicad-copilot-mcpConfig file
{
"mcpServers": {
"kicad-copilot": {
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"kicad-copilot-mcp"
]
}
}
}Config file
{
"servers": {
"kicad-copilot": {
"type": "stdio",
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"kicad-copilot-mcp"
]
}
}
}Platform CLI
gemini mcp add kicad-copilot npx -y kicad-copilot-mcpStep by step, with commands for each platform: How to add an MCP server to Claude Code, Codex, Cursor, VS Code, Gemini CLI and more
Questions about KiCad Copilot
How to install KiCad Copilot in Claude Code?
Run claude mcp add kicad-copilot -- npx -y kicad-copilot-mcp.
What does KiCad Copilot do?
It exposes KiCad schematic and board files to AI agents. The server handles component searches, circuit synthesis, footprint positioning, and offline trace routing.
Does it require a plugin inside the KiCad GUI?
No, it reads and updates project files directly without KiCad IPC or desktop add-ons.
