Brian Clewer wrote:

> One thing I might add.  When you are etching your own PCB take note of
> the tracks that go under other SM components like resistors etc.  If
> your component is not exactly on the pad, you can short the component to
> the track underneath it without ever knowing.

Yes... Without a solder mask, I wouldn't run any traces between the pads of
a 0805 or smaller component. Probably also not between the pads of slightly
bigger components -- don't know where exactly my limit would be, I use
prototyping services with solder mask :)

Consider that the contact area of the component may not be completely on
top of the pads. And as Brian says, you can't see whether it shorts down
there.

Gerhard

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