# pcb-rnd - user manual

## 2. Utilities

## 2.1. gsch2pcb-rnd

Gsch2pcb-rnd is a standalone utility that can extract netlists and element data from a schematics produced by gschem. Thus it is a glue between gschem and pcb-rnd, doing forward annotation. It is ideal for automating the design process as it can be easily called from Makefiles, shell scripts or other programs/scripts, whereas the "import schematics" feautre (import_sch plugin) is more geared for the GUI user.

Multiple methods of operation are offered - the user can select one of these by name, using the -m command line argument (e.g. gsch2pcb-rnd -m importsep foo.sch):

method name | description
import | Runs the same gnetlist backend as the import_sch plugin. A single action command file generated with .cmd suffix. When executed (using action ExcuteFile(foo.cmd)), it syncs (replaces/creates) every element and sets up all nets. Pro: single-command import. Con: can't load netlist only or elements only.
importsep | Similar to import, but produces two files: a .cmd file with element updates only (can be appled the same way as import's) and a separate .net netlist file that can be imported the same way as the .net of the pcb method. Pro: the user can update elements-only or nets-only. Con: requires two user actions to get a full impoty.
pcb | The classic approach that tried to edit the .pcb file. No longer supported.