PCB outline shape on saving PCB cost

PCB shape has a significant impact on cost savings. Different PCB appearance designs will affect processing difficulty, material usage, and production efficiency, which will directly affect costs.

Cost Advantages of Rectangular PCBs

Rectangular PCBs are easier to transport and position on the production line, and their regular edges make them easier to identify and operate with automated equipment. For example, in a placement machine, a rectangular plate can be more easily transported through the track and accurately stopped at the placement position, which is conducive to improving the placement accuracy and speed, thereby reducing processing costs.

Cost Disadvantages of Special-Shaped PCBs

Special-shaped PCBs (such as round or polygonal) require special fixtures and positioning devices to ensure stability during processing. This increases the time for equipment debugging and production preparation. It may also reduce processing accuracy and increase defective product rate due to the complexity of positioning, thereby increasing production costs. In addition, the processing of special-shaped PCBs requires more complicated processes, which may lead to increased costs.

Optimize design to reduce costs

Choose the right shape: Under the premise of meeting functional requirements, try to choose a regular rectangular or square PCB to take advantage of its ease of processing and reduce costs.

Reduce unnecessary complex designs: Avoid complex designs such as excessive fillets and slots, which may help mechanical strength and machinability but will increase processing difficulty and cost.

Standardized Design: Using standardized PCB sizes and shapes can take advantage of mass production and reduce unit costs.

Reasonably plan the board edge: reserve positioning holes and reference points to facilitate the operation of the automated production line, improve production efficiency and reduce costs.