Some things you can do include editing Gerber (dumb xy data) or ODB++ (intellegent) data using a CAM package as Valor. This package, as an example, provides clearly identifiable graphic information concerning pads, with special features, and their locations. All this is provided you have built in design rules as ERF's (external reference files). Also, if the stencil maker is using a similar package it may easily translate requirements into an AOI system. If so, AOI is an answer I've used many times, when applicable. Don't know why this isn't done more. Asked this group some time back but no responses. MoonMan --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Technet Mail List provided as a free service by IPC using LISTSERV 1.8d To unsubscribe, send a message to [log in to unmask] with following text in the BODY (NOT the subject field): SIGNOFF Technet To temporarily halt delivery of Technet send the following message: SET Technet NOMAIL Search previous postings at: www.ipc.org > On-Line Resources & Databases > E-mail Archives Please visit IPC web site (http://www.ipc.org/html/forum.htm) for additional information, or contact Keach Sasamori at [log in to unmask] or 847-509-9700 ext.5315 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------