PCB markings help people assemble, inspect, test and service a board. Prioritize information that prevents a real mistake: polarity, connector identity, pin-one location, board revision and relevant test-point labels. The CAD view should be checked against what the manufacturing process can actually reproduce.
Choose readable text and placement
Use the fabricator’s supported text and line rules for the selected marking process. Avoid placing critical information where components or enclosure parts will cover it. Keep orientation consistent enough that a technician can read related labels without repeatedly rotating the assembly.
Protect solderable and contact areas
Markings can overlap pads in CAD and then be clipped during manufacturing preparation. Move essential polarity or reference information away from those areas. Inspect the final artwork to ensure a clipped character or symbol does not change its meaning.
Make polarity explicit
Use unambiguous indicators for pin one, diode orientation and polarized components, consistent with the assembly drawing. Do not assume every package uses the same visible body mark. Check the exact component documentation and ensure the board marker remains understandable after placement.
Control identity and revisions
Define the board identifier, revision and any serialization area. Distinguish the bare-board revision from an assembly variant where they differ. Reserve a practical location for labels or machine-readable identifiers and review the contrast and available space.
Release checklist
- Keep critical labels visible after assembly.
- Check text and line manufacturability.
- Review clipping against mask openings.
- Reconcile polarity and revision information with the drawings.