Tab Routing & Mouse Bites Combined
Tab routing and mouse bites combined is a common PCB panelization method. It is used when individual boards are connected together in a panel and later separated after assembly. This method helps keep the panel stable during fabrication and SMT assembly, while still allowing the boards to be broken apart more easily after production.
Illustration
What Does It Mean?
In this combined method, most of the board outline is cut by routing (CNC routing), while small connection points are intentionally left between the boards. Those small connection points are called tabs. On the tabs, a row of small drill holes is added. These small holes are called mouse bites.
After fabrication or assembly, the individual PCBs can be separated from the panel by breaking them apart at the tabs. The drilled mouse bites reduce the material strength at the tab location, making separation easier.
Routing creates the outer shape.
Tabs keep the boards connected.
Mouse bites help the tabs break away more easily.
Why Is It Used?
- It helps hold small or irregular-shaped PCBs together in one production panel.
- It improves panel stability during SMT assembly and handling.
- It is suitable for boards that cannot use V-scoring because of their shape or layout.
- It allows easier separation after assembly compared with leaving solid tabs only.
When Should This Method Be Used?
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Irregular PCB outline | Usually suitable for tab routing with mouse bites because V-scoring may not be possible. |
| Small individual boards in a panel | This method can help keep all units connected during production and assembly. |
| Need breakaway panel | A practical choice when customers want panelized delivery and later manual separation. |
| Board edge contains slots, curves, or special shape | Routing plus tabs is generally more flexible than straight-line V-scoring. |
V-Scoring vs. Tab Routing & Mouse Bites
| Item | V-Scoring | Tab Routing & Mouse Bites |
|---|---|---|
| Board Shape | Best for straight-line separation and regular board outline. | Better for irregular shapes, curves, slots, and special outlines. |
| Panel Separation | Boards are separated along straight scored lines. | Boards are separated by breaking tabs with mouse bites. |
| Edge Finish | Usually cleaner and smoother along straight edges. | May leave small rough marks at tab locations after breakaway. |
| Design Flexibility | More limited for unusual shapes. | More flexible for special outlines and complex panel layouts. |
| Common Use | Rectangular boards and standard arrays. | Small boards, odd-shaped boards, and special panel designs. |
If the PCB outline is regular and straight, V-Scoring may be a better choice.
If the PCB outline is irregular or needs flexible breakaway tabs, Tab Routing & Mouse Bites is usually more suitable.
How to Quote This Type of PCB
If your design needs tab routing & mouse bites combined, it is better to clearly indicate it in your Gerber files, panel drawing, or fabrication notes.
- Provide the panel drawing if available.
- Mark the breakaway tab locations clearly.
- Indicate that mouse bites are required on the tabs.
- Tell us whether you need panelized shipment or single pieces.
Please make PCB panel by tab routing with mouse bites on the breakaway tabs.
Important Notes
- After separation, tab areas may leave small rough edges that may require light sanding if appearance is critical.
- Tabs should not be placed too close to critical components or sensitive board edges.
- Mouse bite hole size and spacing are usually determined by engineering practice and manufacturability.
- For products with strict cosmetic or edge-finish requirements, please state the requirement before ordering.