PCB manufacturing

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.

Learn when PCB backdrilling helps, how residual stubs differ from drill depth, and what stackup, fabrication files and first-lot checks to agree before ordering.

Follow glass-epoxy PCB laminate manufacture from resin impregnation to copper-clad sheets, with process boundaries, defect checks and lot-release questions.

Understand PCB factory process control with practical control plans, specification versus control limits, a Cp/Cpk example, sampling checks and reaction plans.

Use a bare PCB appearance inspection process to check visible defects, record doubtful findings and control release. Includes a practical evidence checklist.

Prepare PCB laminate, prepreg and copper foil with receiving, storage, conditioning and cutting checks. Keep lot identity and stop unsuitable material before layup.

Build a bare-board PCB inspection workflow with controlled lighting, image alignment and defect masks. Validate missed defects and false alarms before production.