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76 PCB007 MAGAZINE I APRIL 2025 Driving Innovation by Simon Khesin, SCHMOLL AMERICA Registration in PCB Production Throughout the Process PCB manufacturing is a fascinating indus- try where multiple disciplines—chemical, mechanical, and optical processes—inter- sect. Each field plays a crucial role, and miss- ing even one step can significantly impact production and yield. In the realm of mechanical and optical pro- cesses, one of the most critical aspects influ- encing the final result—especially in complex PCB designs—is registration. I oen compare the PCB registration process to assembling a cheeseburger. You wouldn't want your tomato sliding off one side, the patty leaning in the opposite direction, and the cheese hanging unevenly. A well-made burger should be neatly stacked and precisely aligned so that every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavors. e same applies to PCB registra- tion—inner layers should be aligned as well as possible. While achieving perfect alignment is impossible, the key is controlling tolerances to ensure consistency and precision. is article will explore the fundamental questions: • What are the critical registration points in PCB production? • How can we improve alignment through- out the process?