v0.3.0 — PCB inspection, editing and fabrication (alpha)

This alpha release expands the KiCad MCP server to 28 tools for PCB inspection, editing and manufacturing preparation.

• Inspect pads, vias, zones, individual items, layers and stackup, and list the items assigned to a net.
• Control selection and layer visibility, create through-hole vias, delete supported unlocked items in one undo step and request zone refill.
• Run kicad-cli DRC and export Gerbers, drill files, component positions and SVG into separate local job directories.
• Preserve the PCB BOM workflow and enforce read-only mode across the new editor and artifact operations.
• Document installation, examples and limitations in the English README.

DRC and fabrication use the last saved PCB and project context. Save pending changes explicitly before using these tools. Neither tool implicitly saves the original PCB or project. DRC does not check schematic parity; net membership does not establish physical connectivity; editor zone refill is asynchronous.

Install the ZIP through KiCad’s Plugin and Content Manager using Install from File. KiCad 10+, Python 3.10+ and an enabled IPC API are required. DRC and fabrication additionally require kicad-cli from the same major KiCad version.

325 tests pass locally, and CI passes on Python 3.10, 3.12 and 3.13. Automated tests exercise actual MCP clients, real kicad-python objects with simulated editor behavior, and simulated CLI commands. Validation in a real KiCad GUI and with a real kicad-cli remains pending.