Sep14
What is V-cut? Why PCB need to design V-cut on it?

What is V-cut? Why PCB need to design V-cut on it?

The term “V-cut” in the context of printed circuit boards (PCBs) refers to predefined cutting lines made by PCB manufacturers based on customer drawings. These lines are typically arranged in a V-shaped pattern, resembling the letter “V,” which is why they are called “V-Cuts.”

The primary purpose of including V-Cuts on a PCB is to facilitate the process of “de-paneling” after the completion of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) PCB assembly. PCBs are primarily constructed using fiberglass as their main structural material, which provides them with a certain degree of strength and hardness. Trying to manually break or snap a PCB by hand is virtually impossible, and even if it were possible, it would likely damage the electronical components on the PCB. Therefore, the presence of these pre-cut V-Cut lines serves the specific purpose of aiding assembly workers in cleanly and accurately separating the original panel into individual boards. This separation process is referred to as “de-paneling.”

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Aug31
Why is Panelization and Break-away Tab Necessary in PCB Manufacturing, then De-paneling after PCBA is Completed?

Why is Panelization and Break-away Tab Necessary in PCB Manufacturing, then De-paneling after PCBA is Completed?

Why is “Panelization” performed during PCB manufacturing? And after surface mounting (SMT) assembly and wave soldering, why is it necessary to go through the additional process of “de-paneling” to separate the individual boards? What is the purpose of the PCB’s break-away edges or coupons? Isn’t it cost-effective to use less material? What exactly is meant by “material utilization rate”?

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Aug17
An Option for Adding More Solder – Solder Preforms

An Option for Adding More Solder - Solder Preforms

“Solder preforms” are tiny pieces of solid tin alloy that are already shaped before use. They come in two types of flux contain and flux free. These preforms can be put in certain pads to increase the amount of solder paste. This helps when the solder paste volume is constrained due to the limitation of  stencil thickness. It makes the solder joints stronger and better, and it also helps to improve voids in the solder.

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Aug08
What difference between SMT (Surface Mount Technology) and SMD (Surface Mount Device)?

What difference between SMT (Surface Mount Technology) and SMD (Surface Mount Device)?

What are SMT and SMD? The difference between SMT and SMD is that SMD (Surface Mount Device) refers to an electronic component mounted on a PCB using SMT (Surface Mount Technology).

What do we mean by “SMT (Surface Mount Technology)” or “SMD (Surface Mount Device)” for the electronic manufacturing services industry? Workingbear never really thought about this question before, but since someone asked, it means there are still people out there who don’t know. So, let’s take a moment to talk about them. If you’re already familiar with this industry, feel free to skip this article.

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Aug01
What is OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) Surface Treatment for PCB? What are its Pros and Cons?

What is OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) Surface Treatment for PCB? What are its Pros and Cons?

OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) is a special chemical coating applied to the surface of copper on a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). This coating forms a thin protective film that keeps the bare copper from rusting or corroding when it’s stored. During PCB assembly, the coating can be easily removed by certain chemicals, exposing clean copper for soldering.

The OSP coating is like an invisible film, and you can’t see it easily with your eyes. Experts might use special techniques to check if it’s there. The challenge for PCB manufacturers is that OSP-finished PCBs look similar to regular bare copper boards, making it harder to inspect.

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