Border Layer Thickness: Impact on PCB Dimensions and V-Grooves
3 min
- Example Scenario
- Handling Shapes and Grooves
- Conclusion
When it comes to designing a PCB, understanding the implications of border layer thickness is essential. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at an example to investigate whether different line widths on the border layer can affect the final board dimensions and the thickness of V-grooves during panelization.
Example Scenario
Imagine we have a PCB design with two different line widths on the border layer: 0.1mm and 1.0mm, respectively. Now let's address the following questions:
Will the dimensions of the final board be different?
The answer is no. The thickness of the border line does not directly impact the overall dimensions of the board. Regardless of the chosen line width for the border layer, all cuts are referenced to the centerline of the border lines. Consequently, the width and length of the board will remain consistent.
During panelization, will the V-grooves be cut according to the thickness of the border layer, creating V-grooves of different thicknesses?
No, the thickness of the border layer does not determine the thickness of the V-grooves. V-grooves are cut according to predefined specifications, independent of the border layer thickness. This ensures uniform V-groove thickness across the panel.
Handling Shapes and Grooves
To gain a comprehensive understanding, let's also discuss how shapes and grooves are handled in such a scenario.
Shapes drawn inside the board:
When designing shapes within the board, such as cutouts or internal features, they are typically routed based on the centerline of the line. The actual width of the shape will be determined by the routing tool, irrespective of the border line's width.
Solid lines used to depict grooves:
For solid shapes, including filled polygons or copper pours, they are manufactured based on the actual width of the drawn shape. The thickness of the border layer does not influence the dimensions of internal solid shapes on the PCB.
Conclusion
In this example, we have explored the impact of different line widths on the border layer of a PCB design. We have learned that the thickness of the border line does not affect the board dimensions, as all cuts are referenced to the centerline of the border lines. Additionally, V-grooves are cut according to predefined specifications, independent of the border layer thickness.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for designing PCBs accurately. By considering the relationship between border layer thickness, board dimensions, and V-grooves, you can ensure the desired outcomes in your PCB fabrication process. JLCPCB hope this example has shed light on the topic. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your PCB design, feel free to reach out to us.
Keep Learning
What Is CAM: Computer-Aided Manufacturing Basics
When electronics start evolving, the circuits start becoming more complex and integrated. Before, these circuits were made using hand-drawn paper, but the evolution of digital electronics changed the perspective. Nowadays, we have CAD (Computer-Aided Design), which has become the art of creating a blueprint. Just define the functionality of a circuit, and we can nowadays easily synthesise a circuit only in software. The software has become so advanced that the whole digital flow is possible without lo......
Understanding the Role of PCB and PCBA in Electronics
PCBs and PCBAs are the building blocks of most electronics we use today, from smartphones to industrial machines. PCBs are the actual platforms that connect electronic parts, but PCBAs go one step further by adding parts to the board, which makes them work. PCBs and PCBAs assembling and designing correctly is important for modern electronics, and this article discusses the different types and best practices for each. What is a PCB? A printed circuit board (PCB) is a flat board that holds electronic pa......
Understanding SMT PCB Boards Technology: An Essential Component of Modern Electronics
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) has changed manufacturing of modern electronics. It has made designs and assembly methods more efficient. Many modern electronics depend on SMT PCB boards, which make it possible for circuit designs to be small and efficient. This is what today's technology needs. This article discuss about many types of SMT PCB boards, their uses, and the best methods for designing and assembling them. 1. What is an SMT PCB Board? Printed circuit boards called SMT PCB boards, use surfac......
A Beginners Guide to Tented vs Untented Vias
Via’s are important, If working at high speed design and HDI boards then they become super important. Choosing a type of via during PCB manufacturing matters. Via’s are basically joining two or more layer traces together. Shape, size and track length guidelines became more interesting at high frequency and high speed signals. Today in this article we will explore a fabrication side, the decision to use tented or untented vias. This beginner-friendly guide explains what tented vias are, the differences......
Gerber of PCB: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction: Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are the backbone of modern electronics, serving as the platform on which components are mounted and interconnected. One of the most critical elements in PCB design and manufacturing is the Gerber file. Gerber files are the standard format used to communicate the design of a PCB to the manufacturer. These files provide precise information about the PCB layers, component placement, copper traces, and more. Understanding Gerber files is essential for anyone inv......
How Fiducial Markers Guarantee Perfect Alignment in Professional PCB Fabrication
Today, the most sophisticated pick-and-place machine can place a 0.5 mm pitch QFP on its footprint, board after board, thousands of times, and never miss. It is not only a matter of expensive cameras or high-quality servos, but it begins with a little, very small copper dot, simply hanging there in the corner of your PCB. That dot represents a fiducial marker, and without it, even the smoothest SMT line would be laying components in the dark. The unrecognized heroes of automated assembly are the fiduc......