Keep in mind that v-scores will usually run from edge to edge of the panel. So your stiffener tabs will actually have the same v-score as the array, meaning they add no stiffness. While your idea about slots to reduce stress will reduce some stress from hand depanelization, you are still better off with a pizza cutter and v-grooves. You will use less laminate, and have a stiffer panel. Making some guesses - .06 slots, .2 borders. Go to v-scores, 18 up instead of 20, your board now is just under the 11" Y dimension that fits so nicely on a pallet. If you have to worry about wave solder coming up throught the slots, you have to worry about your wave process. Pete --------------------------------------------------- Technet Mail List provided as a service by IPC using LISTSERV 15.0 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 or (re-start) delivery of Technet send e-mail to [log in to unmask]: SET Technet NOMAIL or (MAIL) To receive ONE mailing per day of all the posts: send e-mail to [log in to unmask]: SET Technet Digest Search the archives of previous posts at: http://listserv.ipc.org/archives Please visit IPC web site http://www.ipc.org/ContentPage.aspx?Pageid=E-mail-Forums for additional information, or contact Keach Sasamori at [log in to unmask] or 847-615-7100 ext.2815 -----------------------------------------------------