PCB Manufacturing Constraints Every Designer Checks

Every PCB manufacturer has limits, called design rules. A board that ignores them can cost more or fail to be made.

Trace width and spacing

Manufacturers have a minimum trace width and spacing. Many offer a minimum of around 0.15 mm, but you should always check the rules of the manufacturer you plan to use.

Holes and annular rings

Drill sizes, via sizes and the copper ring around each hole (the annular ring) have minimum values. Smaller holes can cost more.

Board edges

Keep copper and parts a safe distance from the board edge so they are not damaged when the board is cut.

Layers and thickness

A 2-layer board is the simplest and cheapest. More layers cost more but make dense or fast designs easier.

Solder mask and silkscreen

Mask openings and text need minimum sizes to print clearly.

Ask first

Get the manufacturer's design rules before layout starts. Two-layer boards can be made through local manufacturers, while more complex boards may need overseas services.

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