10 rules for better data

Observe some simple rules can avoid delays and we need to contact you to solve design problems on the circuit board.
We have extrapolated these 10 rules from the most common problems we encounter in our daily planning process.

Rule number 1

Do not scalate data – Data provided must be in 1/1 (100%) scale.

Rule number 2

Make sure the data does not contain apertures of zero dimensions (size = 0.00 mm or inches)

Rule number 3

Use the same offset for all Gerber layer and Excellon drilling data. Preferably do not use compensation.
10_rules_1

The layers have different OFFSET
10_rules_2All layers have the same OFFSET

Rule number 4

Use the same units (mm or inches) in Gerber & Excellon output files, which eliminates conversion or rounding errors.

Rule number 5

Use the same resolution (grid) for Gerber & Excellon data to allow perfect matching.

Rule number 6

Make sure your data is provided as seen from top to bottom through the PCB.
DO NOT mirror (or reflect) any level of data – layer or drill.
• Displaying a PCB from top to bottom through the board is the universal practice in the PCB industry.

• This means that when you view Gerber data, the text on the top of the board (copper, soldermask, screen printing) must be legible and the text on the underside
(copper, soldermask, legend) should be unreadable (= mirroring).

Lato top vista lato TOP

(Top side view Top side)
10_rules_4
(Bottom side view Top side)

Rule number 7

Be sure to include the board edge at all levels. This will allow us to align all levels correctly in the event of a alignment problem. Include the edge contour in a separate Gerber mechanical plane.

Rule number 8

Put a small text (pcb code, company name, etc …) in the copper layers.
Make sure the text is in compliance with the readability rules. (Rule number 6). This will help us avoid mirroring errors.

Rule number 9

RECOMMENDATION. In the CAD PCB design software create an D-code list for Gerber output that only shows the D-code used in the project.

Rule number 10

RECOMMENDATION. In your gerber files always try to insert flashed pads if possible, custom openings can cause problems when importing gerber files.