A V-score is a groove cut by angled blades into the top and bottom of a panel, leaving a thin web, typically about one third of the board thickness, that holds the boards together through assembly. Afterwards the boards are snapped apart or run through a rolling-blade depaneler. Scores must run in straight lines across the whole panel, and parts need clearance from the score line so separation does not crack ceramic capacitors.
V-score is fine for these rectangles, keep the MLCCs at least 1 mm back from the score line.
Also heard as
- V-groove
- scoring
- V-cut
Do not mix it up with
- Tab routing: Tab routing mills around each board and leaves small tabs, which suits odd shapes; V-score only works in straight lines.
Related terms
Panelization
Arranging several boards on one production panel so they are fabricated and assembled together.
Tab routing
Routing out each board in a panel but leaving small tabs that hold it in place until it is broken out.
Mouse bites
Rows of small drilled holes across breakaway tabs so boards snap cleanly from a panel, leaving a nibbled edge.