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Completing the PCB layout is only the first part of the process that culminates in the fabrication and assembly of your PCB. The link between your design and the finished board are the print, Gerber and NC drill fabrication files, as well as the Bill of Materials, testpoint report, and pick and place assembly files.
When you start designing, you should have a clear idea of the output requirements of the PCB technology and production methods you will be using.
If you intend to use the services of a plotting bureau or PCB manufacturer take the time to consult with them before you start generating artwork. Bureaus and manufacturers often have specific requirements that must be reflected in the files or artwork that you submit. For example, you may wish to either “step and repeat” or panelize your Gerber files for efficient quantity fabrication.
To accomplish this, you have to know the film size accepted by the photoplotter, clearance requirements, etc, as well as the manufacturing tolerances involved. Planning for Numeric Control (NC) drilling, requires similar consideration.
In some instances, the bureau or fabrication facility will prefer to work directly with “raw” Gerber files (or even PCB files) rather than panelized Gerbers. Understanding these requirements will help you to plan the entire design process for efficient and trouble-free completion.
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