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Beyond the Rulebook
What happens when the rule book is no longer useful, or worse, was never written in the first place? In today’s fast-moving electronics landscape, we’re increasingly asked to design and build what has no precedent, no proven path, and no tidy checklist to follow. This is where “Design for Invention” begins.
March Madness
From the growing role of AI in design tools to the challenge of managing cumulative tolerances, these articles in this issue examine the technical details, design choices, and manufacturing considerations that determine whether a board works as intended.
Looking Forward to APEX EXPO 2026
I-Connect007 Magazine previews APEX EXPO 2026, covering everything from the show floor to the technical conference. For PCB designers, we move past the dreaded auto-router and spotlight AI design tools that actually matter.
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Just Ask Happy: Plugged or Unplugged Vias?
June 24, 2020 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamEstimated reading time: 1 minute
We asked for you to send in your questions for Happy Holden, and you took us up on it! The questions you've posed run the gamut, covering technology, the worldwide fab market, and everything in between.
Quite a few of you asked about issues related to vias. Here's an example:
Q: If I use a 0.1-mm via-in-pad (non-stacked vias), is it okay to leave the via unplugged on the basis that the via is blind and very short (no significant solder wicking)?
A: Under most situations, as long as the device connection (the ball on the BGA) does not "plug" the via, it will reflow smoothly. But check with the assembler, as their process may not work well with unplugged blind vias-in-pads.
To pose your question for Happy Holden, take the survey by clicking here.
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Simon Khesin - Schmoll MaschinenSuggested Items
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