You know, I've been an idle sand bagger on this subject but I
        have to add my wooden nickel. 
        If removing nonfunctional pads increases a certain fabricators
        yields, wouldn't the cost savings potentially be represented
        by on-time delivery and higher lot yields?????

        I'm not an expert on the nonfunctional issue but I have seen
        multiple discrepancies that are compounded by the ability to
        cleanly etch a large diameter pad that is in the close proximity
        of a fine line. (<.005") (I'm referencing AOI captures. BTW)
        So, being a fabricator I kinda lean towards removal. But this is
        a fun challenging subject! It has been for some time and I'm sure
        it will be for along time.

        Groovy :)
______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: pull-pads
Author:  [log in to unmask] at SMTPLINK-HADCO
Date:    10/18/95 10:50 AM


AS DESIGNERS, WE OFTEN REMOVE SPECIFIC INTERNAL PADS BECAUSE OF DESIGN 
CONSIDERATIONS; HIGH VOLTAGE, DENSITY PROBLEMS, RIGID-FLEX PCB'S, WHATEVER.
     
BUT, WHEN FAB SHOPS WANT TO DO SO WE BAULK.
     
WE HAVE TO PULL PADS TO CREATE A VALID PCB DESIGN.
     
THEY WISH TO PULL PADS TO INCREASE THEIR YIELDS.
     
SO THE NEXT LOGICAL QUESTION IS; IF YOU ARE GOING INCREASE YOUR YIELDS AND 
INCREASE YOUR PROFITS WHEN PRODUCING OUR BOARDS. ARE YOU ALSO GOING TO PASS 
ALONG SOME OF THE SAVINGS BACK TO YOUR CUSTOMERS??
     
TELL US HOW MUCH WE MIGHT BE LOWERING OUR COSTS, AND THEN LET'S DECIDE.
     
     
AL SLAGLE
CAD DESIGNER
HONEYWELL DASD