In the process of Rigid flex PCB manufacturing, we are offen suggested to panalize PCB as tab -routing to deal with our boards edge.here we will give you a detailed introduction of tab -routing process.

What is tab routing?

Tab routing is a popular PCB panelization approach that uses tabs with or without perforations. If you are separating the panelized PCBs manually, you should use the perforated type. If you feel that breaking the PCB off the panel would cause too much stress on the PCB, it is wise to use a special tool that will prevent board damage.

When the board has irregular shape, or the board need a clear edge then the panel need be tab -routed. Fig 8 shows a drawing for the tab -routing panel, Fig 9 is the photo of the tab -routing panel. In the tab-routing panel in order to break the board off the panel after assembly, V score or "mouse bite holes" can be used. Mouse bite holes is a line of holes works the same way as holes on array of stamps. But keep in mind V score will give a clear edge after the boards are break away from the panels, "mouse bite holes" will not give a clear edge.  

Why we need to panalize the boards as tad-routing?

One of the benefits of tab-routing is that you can produce non-rectangular boards. Conversely, a disadvantage of tab-routing is that it requires additional board material, which can increase your costs. It also can place more stress on the board near the tab. To prevent board stresses, avoid placing PCB parts very near the tabs. While there isn’t a specific standard for placing parts near the tabs, generally speaking, 100 mils is a typical distance. In addition, you may need to place parts more than 100 mils for bigger or thicker PCBs. 

You can remove PCBs in panels before or after they are assembled. Since Rigid flex PCB panels make it easier to assemble, the most common approach is to remove the PCBs after the panel is assembled. However, you must use additional care when removing PCBs from panels after they are assembled. 

If you don’t have the special PCB removal tool, you must take special care when removing the PCBS from the panel. Do not bend it! 

If you were to break off the PCB from the panel without care, or even if the parts are extremely near the tabs, you may experience parts damage. In addition, solder joint sometimes rupture, which can cause problems later. It’s preferred to use a cutting tool to remove the PCBs to avoid bending the board.

PHILIFAST has been devoted into PCB manufacturing for many years, and deal with Rigid flex PCB edges very well. If there’s any problem in your PCB projects, just turn to experts in PHILIFAST, they will provide you more professional suggestion.