15/02/2023
What is PCB Depaneling?💡
During the manufacturing process, PCB depaneling is the process of separating and removing individual PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) from a larger multi-board panel.
Smaller PCBs are mounted together by interconnects or tabs known as 'mouse' bites. The mouse bites are typically placed where they are not near critical parts on the circuit board so that when they are depaneled (cut away), the board is not damaged.
There are five different methods used to depanel PCBs: manual tools, pizza cutter (rotary blade), punching, router and laser.
Placing small PCBs on large panels allows for high production times and is cost-effective, as machines can work on multiple boards simultaneously.