PCB Profile

PCB Profile

Every PCB board is distinguished by its specific shape. Shaping is done towards the end of the circuit board manufacturing. It involves either routing or V scoring or the combination of both. Many times, machining is performed to conduct cut-outs and apertures in the printed circuit board before the final assembly.

PCB Profiling Capabilities of GWT

Profiling is performed to cut a PCB out of the production panel. We use a computer-managed router to create internal cutouts on the production panel. The cutter follows a pre-defined path. In the next stage, the milling machine head fitted with a suitable cutter is run through the production panel. The machine head is fitted with a vacuum controlled brush that removes the small particles produced during profiling. The circuits formed on the production panel are separated by small material bridges. Drilling is performed to separate the PCB and the production panel.

To facilitate PCB assembly, the boards can be profiled in individual boards or panel forms, depending on their sizes or numbers. PCB panelization can improve the soldering efficiency of assembly. Also, for some irregularly-shaped boards, panelization allows for more efficient use of board area, thus reducing material waste and costs. For rigid PCBs, there are two commonly used methods of profiling: Tab routing and V-scoring. And the specific choice depends on the methods of PCB panelization, the board shape, and other aspects.

--Tab Routing

Tab routing is the process of using a milling machine to mill out the specified panel patterns according to the outline file, which can get high dimensional accuracy and a smooth board surface. During routing, registration holes are firstly drilled on the pad of the milling machine, and then the board and the pad are fixed together by pins. Next, the routing is performed based on the outline data and it can be processed with several boards overlapped at the same time. Finally, a cleaning operation needs to be processed to remove the dust or debris remaining on the board surface, holes, V-shaped grooves, and other places. After drying, the board is transferred to the quality control inspection.

--V-scoring

At the same time, we can also profile boards through the V-scoring method. V-scoring is to cut a V-shaped groove on both sides of the circuit board that needs to be divided through the V-scoring machine. The depth of the grooves is generally one-third of the board thickness. V-scoring allows the panels to be easily separated after assembly while leaving the board intact. And it is also a cost-effective panelization method in PCB manufacturing, which can save materials and fabrication costs. However, this process can only be suitable for square panels, and cannot process multiple panels simultaneously.

The following PCB profiling capabilities have helped us serve our clients better:

At GWT, we allow clients to decide the shape of their PCB. The shape of their PCB is one of the factors, which adds up to the final costs. Rectangle is the most effective shape because it can be fitted on a production panel and yields maximum utilization. We get maximum orders for rectangular PCBs.

Our in-depth understanding of cost-effective PCB shapes and their capabilities in specific applications allow us cater to a wide range of clients. We, at GWT, are committed to offering quality PCB products at cost-effective services. Also, we are well-known for our fast turnaround times in the industry. No matter, how simple or complex your PCB board is, we can assure precision and short lead times.