Your Design Package Needs to be Complete to Avoid Delays and Other Hassles
Specify Processing Instructions:
Some needed information isn't included in your Gerber (or even CAD) files.
So, the package provided to the manufacturer should include a file (PcbPackage.xml
or ReadMe.txt) that specifies:
Provide the Needed Gerber or CAD Files:
Some manufacturing steps require "pictures" of the material (copper, ink
or solder mask) as it should appear in the final product. The imagery can
be supplied as Gerber files, which is the mechanism supported by the broadest range
of manufactureers, or by providing native CAD files.
Provide Excellon Drill File(s):
Drilling holes is a mechanical operation that requires information not traditionally
specified in Gerber files. The most common format for specifying hole locations
and sizes is "Excellon format."
Design for Manufacturability:
Following some simple rules in your design can help lower your costs and your manufacturers
yeild. Here are a few basic ones:
This is just a partial list of things to consider. If you have suggestions for generally appropriate items that should go on this list, please send us an email and we'll consider adding them.
|