PDF and SVG import not working properly

[MichalSvec (Michal)]

Hi, I have a problem importing PDF and SVG generated from KiCad. Unfortunately, a colleague does not want to work in Eagle, and I am trying to figure out how to import especially PDF files with a printed circuit board image (SVG and other formats also have the same problem). When the PDF file is created, it looks like this:

But as soon as I put the PDF into LightBurn, the whole image is messed up:

I would not like to import image files into Lightburn as I cannot generate high enough quality for accurate burning.
Thank you very much for your advice.

[RalphU (RU)]

Take a look at this solution

Creating printed circuit boards with KiCad - Remix

As a follow-up to the other thread on Creating printed curcuit boards, I thought that I’d post my process to get files from KiCad into Lightburn. Instead of exporting to SVG, I instead used the File → Plot feature in KiCad, and then set the Plot format to ‘DXF’. The trick here is check the option to Plot Edge.Cuts on all layers. Next, open the .dxf file in Lightburn, and you’ll see your circuit design bounded by three concentric squares (the edge cuts). But here’s the second, and most import…

[JohnJohn (John Johnson)]

LightBurn does not apply Line weight for vector lines in the same way that software for graphic design does.

When controlling a laser, the line weight is a function of speed and power.

@MichalSvec

I would not like to import image files into Lightburn as I cannot generate high enough quality for accurate burning.

I would probably lean toward image files.

The array tool in LightBurn is excellent for laying out connector pads.

[MikeyH (Mike Hembrey)]

@MichalSvec

the whole image is messed up:

That Lightburn result is exactly what I would expect from that image. White = foil, black = etch. Look at that massive white area and ask if it should be there. Lightburn can’t fix a bad PDF.

That said, it appears @RalphU has found a solution to your problem.

Being an electronics dude, I would be interested in learning what steps you are taking to create a PCB involving the use of a laser.