Intro

Modern ECADs have net labels for creation connections between schematic symbols without wires and even net classes, that can include several nets for custom rules.

When you start layout the first nets for routing should be critical nets

• Analog
• High-speed
• Power

and during tracing other components you can clearly see most important connections and make more smart decisions in directions and.

Schematic Examples (KiCad)

USB	I²C
5V	3.3V
CURRENT SHUNT	HIGH VOLTAGE

Board Examples (KiCad)

USB	I²C
5V	3.3V
CURRENT SHUNT	HIGH VOLTAGE

How to use (KiCad)?

Open schematic setup and go to Project Net Classes, where you can create new net classes and define required style (thickness, color, line style).

Press on net (is should have name (label)) and press Assign Netclass:

Altium Designer

The same feature (net coloring) is available in Altium Designer ECAD.

Schematic	Tracks

How to enable?

On the right bottom side press Panels -> View Configuration:

And enable Net Color Override (or press F5):

Conclusions

• Using net and net classes highlighting by color make schematic more readable 
• Colorful tracks and polygons makes board tracing more clear and predictable (because you see most prioritized connections)
• Altium Designer and KiCad ECADs supports colored nets