PCB Design Tips: How to Avoid Solder Splatter

Implications of border lines and 3D footprint lines on Mechanical Layer 1

Key Takeaways Mastering Mechanical Layer 1 is essential for accurate PCB manufacturing. Always place the complete board outline, mounting holes, and irregular slots on Mechanical Layer 1 (GM1), as JLCPCB prioritizes the lowest-numbered Mechanical Layer while ignoring KEEP-OUT and higher Mechanical Layers. 3D footprint lines serve only as design references and will not be fabricated. Following these layer priority rules and best practices ensures correct board dimensions, proper slot formation, and avo......

The Role of PCB Test Fixtures in High-Volume Manufacturing

In high-volume manufacturing of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), quality, efficiency, and reliability are paramount. One of the most crucial tools in achieving these goals is the PCB test fixture. These fixtures play a vital role in ensuring that PCBs meet the required performance standards before they are integrated into electronic devices. This article delves into the importance of PCB test fixtures, their types, and how they contribute to the efficiency of high-volume manufacturing. Specialized and c......

SMT or Through Hole Technology？Which is Better for Your Project？

When designing and manufacturing electronics, one of the most important steps is selecting the appropriate assembly method. Nowadays we have through-hole technology and surface mount technology, which become the industry standards and are the two main approaches. The surface-mount technology (SMT) uses components that are perfectly aligned with the PCB surface. On the other hand through-hole technology (THT) uses leads that are placed into pre-drilled holes in the PCB and thereafter soldered. Consider......

PCB temperature: Tips regarding improving the thermal management of PCBs

Thermal management is of utmost importance while designing PCBs. This is because the temperature of PCBs can guarantee the reliability, performance, and longevity of PCBs and the electronic equipment of which they are an integral component. Thus, enhanced Printed Circuit Board heat management is a necessity for reliable operation and to protect against damage to electronic components. In the upcoming chapter, we will discuss several approaches to strengthen PCB temperature management. Reasons of heat ......

Design for Manufacturing (DFM): A Comprehensive Guide for Optimizing Production

Maintaining quality while improving the manufacturing process is critically important in the competitive fields of electronics and industry. Design for Manufacturing (DFM) here comes in handy. DFM is a design tool stressing the simplicity of manufacturing during the product development stage. Early on manufacturing limitations help DFM to guarantee that goods are not only useful but also reasonably priced, dependable, and easily produced at large-scale production. This article covers the importance of......

Design for Manufacturing and Assembly: A Complete DFMA for PCB Design Guide

Key Takeaways DFMA covers both PCB fabrication and assembly: DFM addresses bare-board fabrication, while DFA addresses component assembly and related process constraints. The biggest decisions happen early: Package choice, layer count, and board outline are usually set well before Gerber export and become expensive to change later. Passing DRC does not guarantee a good footprint: Design rules can verify clearances and copper geometry, but they cannot confirm that a footprint matches the component data......