Sierra supported KiCon 2019, and we're pleased with the decision! Here's our summary of the event!
KiCon 2019: A Gathering of PCB Designers and KiCad Enthusiasts
KiCon 2019, the first annual event dedicated to the KiCad community, took place and attracted a diverse group of PCB designers and KiCad users. The conference, organised by Chris Gammell, an electronics design consultant, was centred around printed circuit boards (PCBs), which are essential in electronics.
The event provided a platform for attendees to share best practices for using KiCad, an open-source, cross-platform Electronics Design Automation suite, to build advanced products. One of the focuses of KiCon 2019 was to demonstrate what's "under the hood" of KiCad, offering insights into the inner workings of the software.
A manufacturer panel was arranged for PCB designers to discuss their doubts and issues with experts. This session aimed to ensure good PCB design by considering the manufacturer's capabilities to avoid failure.
Attendees ranged from beginners learning KiCad for the first time to those with expert-level skills, as well as individuals networking. Sierra, a company, sponsored the first KiCad users conference held at KiCon 2019.
Looking ahead, KiCad is considering hosting an event in Europe. KiCon 2020 is expected to take place, continuing the tradition of community-driven discussions and development related to KiCad. The European edition for 2025 will take place from September 10 to 12, with a standard participation fee (€64).
The conference aims to show attendees how to use KiCad to supercharge their next design. By combining user and developer content, KiCon provides a platform for community engagement and collaboration, fostering the evolution of the open-source tool. Future KiCon events are likely to continue this format, maintaining a focus on practical applications and technical development insights.
[1] For more information, please visit the official KiCon website.
Technology played a significant role in the conference as attendees were introduced to KiCad, an open-source Electronics Design Automation suite, and gained insights into its inner workings. Education and self-development were also emphasized, with the conference aiming to help participants supercharge their next design by learning practical applications and technical development insights.
