How to Do the PCB Board Array Panelize Process

Embedded board arrays can be panelized to reduce manufacturing costs. This article discusses the different options available, including using a laser-cutter, a saw, or a router. The first step is to design the board on its own. The design must include the table and dimensions for the entire panel.

Embedded board arrays can be panelized to reduce manufacturing costs

Panelizing embedded boards allows you to reduce the number of individual components and the overall cost of manufacturing. You can place boards side-by-side up to a board width of four inches and 7.5 inches. Paneling allows you to save space in your manufacturing floor and avoid costly and time-consuming assembly operations.

Paneling helps protect the integrity of a PCB while enabling China PCB manufacturers to produce several boards at once. However, paneling PCBs must be done with care. The process can cause a great deal of dust and the assembled boards may need additional cleaning before shipping. Also, protruding components may fall into adjacent parts. If the protrusions are small enough, “breakaway holes” can be used on each board to avoid this.

In order to build a panel using several PCBs, you must first build a panel with compatible PCB layer stacks. You can do this by selecting PCBs that share the same PCB design file and creating a panel with multiple PCBs. Then, you can use the panelization commands to create a panel composed of one or multiple PCBs.

Using a laser-cutter

Using a laser-cutter to depanelize a PCB board array eliminates the need for a PCB router. Unlike other cutting methods, laser routing does not require a mechanical die and is suitable for PCBs with tight tolerances. It can also cut through flex circuit substrates and glass fibers.

Unlike a saw, a laser-cutter can panelize a PCB board array in an efficient and quick manner. Lasers are best suited for thin boards, and the optimal thickness for a PCB board array is one mm. However, if the board has overhanging components, the laser can damage them. Also, using a laser-cutter to panelize a PCB board array can leave a rough edge, which may require additional work.

The panel size is another factor to consider. If the PCB is wider than the length of the array, it is more efficient to stack boards. However, this strategy has a drawback: it will result in excessive drooping during through-hole machine soldering.

Using a saw

The panelization process involves the removal of individual PCBs from a PCB board panel. This can be done manually or with a saw blade. In both cases, the laminate material at the top and bottom of the PCB is removed. The center of the PCB is left intact to maintain the board array format.

The most common and cheapest way to panelize a PCB board array is by using a saw. A saw allows you to separate the individual boards using V-grooves. This method allows you to separate the boards easily and quickly. It is a relatively simple method, and the saw helps you cut the boards accurately.

Another technique to panelize a PCB board array is tab routing. This process mills the circuit board along contours. This technique preserves the material bridges that hold the board in place during the manufacturing process. However, it is not suitable for large transformers or other heavy components. However, it does reduce the load placed on the printed circuit board, and it can reduce the risk of chipping.

Using a router

If you’re using a router to do the PCB board array panelize process, be aware of the risks involved. The first thing you should know is that routers generate dust and vibration. If the panels are very thick, you’ll want to use a laser slicing machine. Alternatively, you can use a hook blade tool. This method is less efficient, but much cheaper.

Another panelization method is V-groove routing, which uses perforated tabs to hold the PCBs in place. These tabs can have anywhere from three to five holes. The advantages of this method include flexibility and ease of depanelization. However, this method is not recommended for PCBs with irregular shapes or small holes.

Using a hook-shaped blade tool

When panelizing a PCB board array, it’s important to follow the correct procedure. Using the wrong tool can result in a broken board. To avoid this, it is important to measure your PCB board carefully and cut each panel at the correct depth. In addition, make sure you leave a minimum of 0.05 inches of space at the edge of each panel.

There are many different methods of panelization. Some methods are more effective than others. Some methods require the use of a hook-shaped blade tool, which is expensive and ineffective when working with thicker boards. Other methods require the use of a depaneling router, which can cause dust and other problems.