Design Rules and Smart DFM
Design rules to protect against costly errors in manufacturing
Often, simple mistakes or lack of knowledge of the PCB manufacturing or PCB assembly process can lead to significant delays and additional costs. We explain some of the design rules and technical guidelines that will help avoid such delays and costly errors along with our 10 rules for improved data quality.
Keep an eye on the PCB outline
A closed, non-intersecting line defines the physical boundary of the PCB, known as the outline. The centre of this line is used as the actual outline of the PCB. A simple topic but full of pitfalls. We show the typical mistakes and explain how to avoid them.
Some parts need more space
Irregular parts, connectors or heat sinks require more PCB space than others. Courtyards can be used to determine the required safe clearance around a component. We explain how to use this design rule effectively and how to use the Eurocircuits Visualizer to check designs for required clearance.
> Good courtyards make good neighbours
Using keepouts to protect against expensive errors
Keepouts can be used to define areas on the PCB. For example, Bluetooth antennas, which must be free of copper, or the connections of connectors, where no other components may be located. This design rule is a useful method and if used correctly, is much more useful than notes in the documentation.
Seamless data transfer from CAD to CAM
When the data arrives at the PCB manufacturer, the CAD world meets the real production reality of the CAM world. Just 10 simple rules for the PCB design process to improve data quality and avoid problems, delays and design changes due to poor data quality.
> 10 Rules for Better Data – Avoid PCB Design Issues
Best for last: The Eurocircuits Visualizer performs DFM and DRC check free of charge
The PCB and PCBA Visualizer tools check all data for PCB production and assembly for manufacturability by creating a digital twin of the design to achieve subsequent Right First Time manufacturing.
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