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What does “run a panel” mean in the context of PCB/PCBA fabrication?

A design engineer told me our PCB prototypes would be completed soon and then he would have his assembler "run a panel". Does anyone know what that means?

PC boards are fabricated whole “panels” at a time. These are bigger than most ordinary boards, so usually you tile several end boards onto a panel. The panels are all the same size to fit whatever machines that the production line is set up with. All the etching, plating, drilling, and silk screening operations happen on whole panels.

  • For some production purposes, you buy whole panels of your boards from the board house. The individual boards tiled onto a panel might be partially routed apart by the board house with “mouse bites”, or V-scored.
  • For high-volume production, it’s more efficient to pick and place on an entire panel of boards. These are then broken apart only at the last possible moment. Sometimes even parts of the final board testing is done when they are still in panels.

Read More: Different PCB Panelization Methods

#PCB Assembly #PCB Manufacturing

Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.
Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

What Others Are Asking

What kinds of test is suitable for low volume PCB order?

I’ve ordered fabrication and assembly of small PCB batches (100pcs) a couple of times already. Each time the factory asked me if I want to do test on the PCB. But I don’t what to do about it. And I test them by myself. Then, the result of the testing is unacceptable with 15% soldering problems. So bad. I think I will ask the supplier to test them before delivery.

How can I fix the PCB to the mechanical structure?

I designed a PCB with an imaging sensor that is mechanically coupled to a lens assembly using four 2-56 screws. I’m noticing that even though the screws are holding the board tightly against the mechanical structure if I flick or lightly knock the the assembly the image “moves”.  I’m hoping to get a few suggestions for ways to fix the PCB to the mechanical structure. Any suggestions for adhesives or the like? Something else?

Read Detailed Advice From Blog Articles