JLCPCB - what happens if edge cuts split pcb into multiple parts?

[dusan]

I have pcb that is made of 2 parts, they go on top of each other (each part is 2x2cm). What happens if I manufacture it at JLCPCB? They together easily fit within 10x10cm board. Is it counted as 1 board or should I submit 2 gerbers one for each board? Or is it ok to have 2 "islands" on one board?

[ataradov]

For the discounted prototype service they will generally count it as two separate designs. You may get lucky and the screener person will let it slide, but don't rely on that.

Some people try to get into the arguments with their agents, but is it really wort it for $5?

[nvmR]

piggybacking on this. Does the advice of splitting into two separate designs, follow through if doing assembly with JLC?

[josip]

https://jlcpcb.com/help/article/15-in-what-cases-will-there-be-charged-extra

I ordered many times multiple designs on one 10x10cm PCB (one gerber file) separated with empty space, without any extra cost. If you want them to cut the board, than they charge.

Anyway, you can try to upload your gerber file and wait for order approve, without any payment.

[dusan]

Now that I think about it. It has to be separate gerbers because they put their serial number and if it was 2 separate pieces one would not have the number.

[shapirus]

So from what is stated on their website (https://jlcpcb.com/quote/pcbOrderFaq/Different%20Design%20in%20Panel) it follows that the designs are considered different if any of the following is true:

- there is a board separation method (v-score, mouse bites, etc.) used between sections of the 10x10 cm PCB that look like different designs
- there are more than 5 sections that look like different designs

What will be regarded as different designs?

Basically, if the traces/ silkscreen in your PCB is different, as long as it can be separated, no matter by v-cut, millings, or drill holes, it will be regarded as different designs. One more thing, sometimes, even all your PCBs look the same, but if there is no any connection to make them into one panel, and it needs to be sent as single piece, it will be also considered as different designs.

In other words: if you cut them yourself, no problem.

In practice, however, I think I read someone mentioning that they wanted the customer to pay extra even when the designs were separated only by silkscreen. So then it likely also depends on the person verifying the order. I don't recall exactly where I read that, though.