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Package conventions: Add convention for mechanical pads
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ubruhin committed Feb 7, 2024
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18 changes: 14 additions & 4 deletions modules/library-conventions/pages/packages.adoc
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Expand Up @@ -84,10 +84,20 @@ The following conventions apply to package names:

== Pads

* *Always add all pads of packages*, even those which are not always connected.
For example, the package "TO220" has a metal tab, so you should define it as
a pad, no matter if it's often not connected (and even not connectable when
mounted vertically).
* *Always add all (electrical) pads of packages*, even those which are not
always connected. For example the package "TO220" has a metal tab, so you
should define it as a pad, even though it's often not connected (and even
not connectable when mounted vertically).
** If there are multiple leads which have a package-internal connection
(e.g. shielding tabs of an USB connector), add them as one single package
pad and connect all corresponding footprint pads to it to make LibrePCB
aware of this internal connection.
** If there are leads for pure mechanical purpose without any internal
connection at all (e.g. split solder tabs of a plastic connector), don't
add package pads for them -- just add footprint pads and leave them
unconnected. If in doubt, or if connected to a metal cover of significant
size, consider those leads as electrically relevant and treat them like
normal leads to allow connecting them in devices and schematics when desired.
* *Use pad names according {ipc7351-pdf}[IPC-7351]* (if applicable). For
packages which are not covered by IPC-7351:
** If the function of a pad is absolutely clear, choose its abbreviated
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