Slots, Cutouts, and Notches

When ordering we offer Non-plated Slots and Cutouts as well as Plated Slots and Cutouts. We commonly get questions about how we define these features in relation to the outline.

Slots, Cutouts, and Notches:

Slot: A slot is a feature included in the drill file that specifies both a tool diameter and a length.

Cutout: A cutout is an additional route shape contained within the board outline.

Notch: A notch is any indentation in the board's outline. Notches do not need to be noted on the order form.

Plated vs. Non-Plated

Slots: If a slot does not go through copper on either outer layer, or is explicitly called out as non-plated then it will be treated as non-plated slot. Otherwise slots will be plated.

Cutouts: Cutouts must be explicitly called out as plated otherwise they will be treated as non-plated cutouts. The best places to make note of this would be in your order notes field or in an included Readme file.

Non-plated holes larger than 0.250" will also be treated as cutouts. Due to their size they require additional fabrication steps to ensure that no copper is plated into the hole barrel.

Service Restrictions & Requirements

• Slots should be defined in an NC Drill file.
  • If a slot file cannot be provided a Fab drawing or drill drawing is needed to determine location and size of slots and/or cut outs.
• Notches and Cutouts must measure at minimum 0.031" across
• Cutouts must be at least .020” apart
• Slots and cutouts must be at least .020" away from the board edge/outline
• The smallest slot size we offer is .0281".​​