Review PCB mouse bites before ordering: distinguish tabs from hole spacing, protect critical edges, and use a drawing checklist for controlled separation.

Choose tented or open vias, check front and back solder mask, and distinguish tenting from filled via-in-pad before releasing PCB fabrication files.

Separate solder paste shelf life from stencil life, handle warm-up correctly, and diagnose dry paste with a lot log and practical stop-use checklist.

Understand PCB copper peel strength, calculate N/mm correctly, compare test conditions, and check supplier reports without relying on a universal pass value.

Learn what PCB microsection analysis reveals, how to review measurements and sample identity, and why one good cross-section cannot approve an entire lot.

Understand conductive anodic filament in PCBs, distinguish suspected CAF from other leakage, and check supplier test evidence before approving a build.

Calculate solder mask dam width, compare individual and shared openings, and prepare fine-pitch fabrication checks without relying on a universal minimum.

Understand PCB copper thieving, protect sensitive keepouts and review CAM additions with a practical approval checklist before fabrication.

Specify PCB tooling holes for panel handling and test fixtures, with pin-fit examples, placement checks and a practical fabrication drawing checklist.