Embedded-cHow-ToBeginner · 4 min read

How to Design PCB Panel: Step-by-Step Guide

To design a PCB panel, arrange multiple PCB layouts in a grid or custom pattern within your PCB design software, add tooling holes for alignment, and define cut lines to separate individual boards after manufacturing. This process optimizes production and reduces costs by fabricating multiple boards at once.

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Syntax

Designing a PCB panel involves these key steps:

Place PCBs: Arrange multiple PCB designs in rows and columns or custom layouts.
Add Tooling Holes: Insert holes for machine alignment during manufacturing.
Define Cut Lines: Draw lines or tabs where the panel will be separated into individual boards.
Set Panel Properties: Specify spacing, margins, and panel size.

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PlacePCB(x, y)
AddToolingHole(x, y, diameter)
DrawCutLine(startX, startY, endX, endY)
SetPanelProperties(spacing, margin, panelSize)

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Example

This example shows how to create a 2x2 PCB panel with tooling holes and cut lines using a generic PCB design script syntax.

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SetPanelProperties(spacing=5, margin=10, panelSize=(100, 100))

// Place four PCBs in a 2x2 grid
PlacePCB(0, 0)
PlacePCB(50, 0)
PlacePCB(0, 50)
PlacePCB(50, 50)

// Add tooling holes at corners
AddToolingHole(5, 5, 3)
AddToolingHole(95, 5, 3)
AddToolingHole(5, 95, 3)
AddToolingHole(95, 95, 3)

// Draw cut lines between PCBs
DrawCutLine(50, 0, 50, 100)  // vertical cut
DrawCutLine(0, 50, 100, 50)  // horizontal cut

Output

A 100x100 mm panel with 4 PCBs arranged in 2 rows and 2 columns, tooling holes at each corner, and cut lines dividing the panel into 4 separate boards.

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Common Pitfalls

Not leaving enough spacing between PCBs can cause damage during cutting.
Forgetting tooling holes leads to alignment issues in manufacturing.
Incorrect cut line placement can cause boards to break improperly.
Ignoring panel size limits may cause fabrication errors.

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/* Wrong: PCBs too close, no tooling holes */
SetPanelProperties(spacing=1, margin=5, panelSize=(50, 50))
PlacePCB(0, 0)
PlacePCB(25, 0)

/* Right: Adequate spacing and tooling holes */
SetPanelProperties(spacing=5, margin=10, panelSize=(60, 60))
PlacePCB(0, 0)
PlacePCB(30, 0)
AddToolingHole(5, 5, 3)
AddToolingHole(55, 5, 3)

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Quick Reference

Spacing: Keep at least 3-5 mm between PCBs.
Tooling Holes: Use standard sizes (3-5 mm diameter).
Cut Lines: Use V-grooves or tabs for clean separation.
Panel Size: Confirm with manufacturer limits.

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Key Takeaways

Arrange multiple PCBs with proper spacing to avoid damage during cutting.

Add tooling holes for precise alignment in manufacturing.

Define clear cut lines to separate boards cleanly after fabrication.

Check panel size and spacing limits with your PCB manufacturer.

Use your PCB design software's panelization tools to automate this process.