15/10/2026
A PCB design can look right on screen and still cause problems on the production floor.
Clearance issues, tight component spacing, awkward panelisation and limited inspection access can all create challenges once a design reaches manufacturing. Many of these issues are easier to address before the first board goes into production.
💡 That’s where Design for Manufacturing (DFM) comes in.
Before releasing a PCB design, here are 7 checks worth making:
1. Component Spacing and Clearance
Are components positioned with enough room for assembly and inspection?
2. Pad and Footprint Design
Do the footprints match the actual components and their recommended land patterns?
3. Trace Width and Spacing
Are copper dimensions suitable for the electrical requirements and manufacturing capabilities?
4. Via Placement
Are vias positioned appropriately to avoid unnecessary fabrication and assembly challenges?
5. Fiducials
Are optical alignment markers correctly positioned for automated component placement?
6. Panelisation and Tooling Holes
Is the board designed for reliable handling, alignment and automated production?
7. Solder Mask and Silkscreen Clearances
Are exposed pads, solder mask openings and component markings positioned appropriately?
âś… These checks won't eliminate every manufacturing issue, but they can help identify potential problems earlier, reduce avoidable rework, and make the transition from design to production smoother.
At On-Track Technology, we understand that getting the details right early makes a difference when a PCB moves onto the production floor.
Good manufacturing starts with good design decisions.
Read the full article for a closer look at these seven DFM checks:
👉 https://on-track.com.au/pages/news/104