Border Layer Thickness: Impact on PCB Dimensions and V-Grooves

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.

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