Essential production files
Prepare Gerber artwork, matching NC drill data, the board outline and a dimensioned fabrication drawing. Keep units, layer naming and the design revision consistent across the package.
Construction and order details
Include layer count, finished thickness, laminate requirements, inner and outer copper weights, surface finish and quantity. For multilayer or impedance-controlled designs, provide the intended stackup and electrical targets.
Special features and release checks
Call out slots, plated and non-plated holes, blind or buried vias, edge features, panel requirements and critical tolerances. Mark the current revision and remove obsolete files before submission.
A practical fabrication-file checklist
One complete, consistent package helps prevent manufacturing assumptions from being mistaken for design decisions.
| File or specification | Include or clarify |
|---|---|
| Artwork | Copper layers, solder mask, legend and clear layer identification. |
| Drill data | Holes, plated/non-plated distinction and relevant tolerances. |
| Mechanical drawing | Outline, dimensions, slots, cutouts and critical features. |
| Stackup | Layer order, materials, thicknesses and finished copper. |
| Special requirements | Impedance, via treatment, finish, edge features or local reinforcement. |
| Order information | Revision, quantity, required date and destination. |
Common conflicts to remove
Check that the drawing, file names and written specification describe the same revision. Resolve conflicting copper, thickness or finish notes. Separate intentional special features from unclear artwork, and identify which instruction takes precedence if the documentation differs.
What about a BOM or pick-and-place file?
A bill of materials and component placement file support assembly work. They are not substitutes for bare-board artwork and drill data. If your project includes both fabrication and assembly, keep the two scopes and their required inputs clear.
Questions, answered
Before your next build
Are Gerber files enough?
Not always. Drill data and manufacturing specifications are also needed to define the board and prepare an accurate quotation.
Can I send an early inquiry?
Yes. Describe the project and identify preliminary requirements. Missing information may need confirmation before a firm quotation.