PCB tolerances refer to the allowable deviations in dimensions, thickness, angles, and other parameters between the actual manufactured Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) and the design specifications provided by the customer. For example, a PCB might be designed to be 1.6mm thick, but due to manufacturing limitations, the final product could vary slightly, typically within a tolerance range. For a 1.6mm PCB, this tolerance might be ±0.16mm, or even as tight as ±0.1mm for more stringent requirements.

In general, tighter tolerances indicate higher manufacturing complexity and may lead to a lower yield rate. However, they also contribute to better functional reliability. The tolerance requirements can vary significantly depending on the application and environment. For instance, PCBs used in aerospace applications often demand much stricter tolerances compared to those used in consumer electronics.

PCB tolerance considerations are crucial during the design phase, as any discrepancies can affect the PCB’s overall performance. In addition to customer-specific requirements, there are established industry standards for PCB tolerances, with IPC-A-600 being one of the most commonly referenced. PCB manufacturers should adhere to these standards to ensure consistent quality and performance.

At LEAPPCB, we follow our customers’ specifications and the IPC-A-600 Class 2 and Class 3/3A standards to deliver the highest quality PCBs. Below are some of the most commonly applied PCB production tolerances.

If you have any questions or specific requirements, feel free to reach out to us.