PCB Panelization FAQ
This page explains the basic PCB panelization options used in PCB fabrication, including Single Board, Manufacturer Panel, and Customer Panel.
What Is PCB Panelization?
PCB panelization is the method of combining one or more PCB units into a larger manufacturing panel for fabrication, handling, assembly, and shipment.
Depending on the project, boards may be produced as individual single boards or as part of a panel. The best option depends on board size, quantity, assembly process, breakaway method, and customer requirements.
Single Board
Mfr Panel (Manufacturer Panel)
Customer Panel
Basic Panelization Types
| Type | Meaning | General Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Single Board | One PCB unit as one board | The PCB is produced and delivered as an individual board rather than in a larger array panel. |
| Mfr Panel | Manufacturer Panel | The factory arranges multiple PCB units into a production panel based on manufacturing needs. Panel layout is usually determined by fabrication efficiency and process requirements. |
| Customer Panel | Customer-defined Panel | The customer provides a panelized design or requests a specific array structure, spacing, tooling strips, breakaway method, or assembly-oriented layout. |
Common PCB Panelization Questions
1. What does Single Board mean?
Single Board means each PCB unit is treated as one separate board. This is often used when the board does not need array handling for SMT assembly or when the customer prefers individual boards.
2. What does Mfr Panel mean?
Mfr Panel means Manufacturer Panel. In this case, the PCB factory arranges the panel format according to fabrication process needs. This may help with production handling, material utilization, or process stability.
3. What does Customer Panel mean?
Customer Panel means the customer wants a specific panel layout. This may include a defined array size, rail width, spacing, fiducials, breakaway tabs, V-scoring, routing, or other assembly-related requirements.
4. Do all PCB orders need panelization?
No. Not all PCB orders require panelization. Some orders are better suited to Single Board production, while others benefit from panelized fabrication for assembly, handling, or shipping purposes.
5. When is panelization commonly used?
Panelization is commonly used when the PCB is small, when SMT assembly requires array handling, when breakaway processing is needed, or when the customer has a defined panel format for assembly lines.
6. Is Mfr Panel the same as Customer Panel?
No. Mfr Panel is normally arranged by the factory based on production needs, while Customer Panel is defined by the customer or by the customer’s assembly requirements. The two options may look similar in output form, but they are not the same in design responsibility.
7. Which option should I choose when requesting a quote?
If your project is intended to be produced as individual boards, choose Single Board. If you need a specific panel layout for assembly or shipment, choose Customer Panel. If you do not require a specific customer-defined array and want the factory to handle the panel arrangement, Mfr Panel may be the suitable option.
8. Does panelization affect PCB price?
Yes, it can. PCB panelization may affect manufacturing cost depending on panel size, spacing, tooling strips, breakaway method, waste area, routing, V-scoring, and special production requirements. The effect is project-dependent.
9. Can I submit my own panelized design?
Yes. If your project requires a customer-defined panel structure, you may submit your own panelized design files or clearly provide the panel requirements. It is best to make the panel format clear before production begins.
10. What should I tell you if I need Customer Panel production?
Please provide as much detail as possible, such as panel dimensions, unit count, spacing, rail requirements, fiducials, tooling holes, V-cut or routing method, and any assembly-related instructions.
Simple Selection Guide
- If you want each PCB as an individual unit, choose Single Board.
- If you need a defined array format for assembly, choose Customer Panel.
- If you do not require a special customer-defined panel, Mfr Panel may be appropriate.
Need Help with Panelization?
If you are not sure whether your project should use Single Board, Mfr Panel, or Customer Panel, please contact us with your design information and production requirements.
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