Questions on JLCPCB

[criznach]

I've ordered a few things from JLC with decent results and am looking to try a more complex, PCB artwork design.  I'll need routed, curved outlines and some slots.  And I'd also like to be able to hand-solder some SMD LEDs on the board's edge.  So I have some questions...

• It looks like 2mm is their routing width based on their capabilities page.  Can they do smaller, and/or does it cost more?  I was hoping to make some 1.6 (or so) slots for joining boards.  If I can only get 2mm, I'll wiggle or zig-zag the slots to make 1.6 fit tightly.
• If I ignore DRC errors, can routing go through a copper pour or pad?  I'd like large-ish pads at the slot edges for joining boards together at 90 degree angles.
• And again, ignoring DRC errors, can I cut plated holes (both round and oval) in half with the edge routing layer?  This is how I planned to edge-mount SMD LEDs.
• If I omit the solder mask over an area on both sides, does the PCB material appear brownish?  It's hard to tell from the boards I have with full solder mask.

Thanks!

[innkeeper]

think that's a question best asked directly to JLPCB.

If you get an answer from them, please post. It is good information to know.

[TheUnnamedNewbie]

If I ignore DRC errors, can routing go through a copper pour or pad?  I'd like large-ish pads at the slot edges for joining boards together at 90 degree angles.

That sounds like it is not really a DRC error in the eyes of the manufacturer. Even in most PCB tools you can turn that off so it is not a error by for example connecting the pour or pad to the same net as the routing so it no longer counts as a 'short'.

If I omit the solder mask over an area on both sides, does the PCB material appear brownish?  It's hard to tell from the boards I have with full solder mask.

Do you mean over copper or over bare substrate? Substrate is usually FR4, and I don't think JLC can do anything else (at least not for their cheap 2 dollar boards). It should look like any other FR4, and will be something similar to this:



Source: http://www.gar-fond.com/english/unclad-fr4.html

As for the other two: You should contact the manufacturer on this.