Trace is an AI‑native PCB design platform that lets engineers describe hardware intent in natural language or graphics, then automatically generates schematics, selects components with real‑time pricing, and performs placement and routing. Built on KiCad, it provides continuous ERC/DRC validation and one‑click export of manufacturing files, streamlining the workflow from concept to production‑ready board.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Circuit board design still relies on legacy, manual workflows that require engineers to switch between multiple tools and websites for schematics, component sourcing, and routing, leading to weeks of effort and high costs even for simple boards.
Solution
Trace is an AI‑native PCB design platform that lets engineers describe their hardware intent in natural language or graphical form. Built on KiCad, the tool’s intelligent agents parse component datasheets, check real‑time part availability, and automatically place and route components across multi‑layer boards. The system maintains a unified design context, eliminating the need to open separate tabs for part lookup, rule checks, or price comparison. Designers receive AI‑guided suggestions, ERC/DRC validation, and instant generation of manufacturing outputs (Gerbers, BOM, assembly docs). By integrating supply‑chain awareness and automated design checks, Trace accelerates the path from concept to a production‑ready board.
Target Audience
Primary users are hardware engineers and development teams—both experienced professionals seeking faster iteration and newcomers needing guided PCB creation—across startups, OEMs, and academic labs.
Features
- Natural‑language schematic capture that converts textual descriptions into circuit block diagrams
- AI‑driven datasheet parsing and component recommendation with live pricing from major distributors
- Automated placement and routing with fast edit suggestions using a proprietary Trace Block format
- Integrated ERC and DRC agents that continuously validate designs against electrical and manufacturing rules
- One‑click export of Gerber files, BOM, and assembly documentation ready for fab submission
- Built on open‑source KiCad, ensuring compatibility with existing EDA workflows and community extensions
- REST API and CLI tools for scripting and embedding Trace into custom automation pipelines