I am trying create a set of option pads with a removable trace like these:
I can’t figure out what ‘part’ to search for.
Two smd pads, with a trace between them that is set to ‘very thin’. A single pin generic header will ‘do’, but I think the pad size and shape is not what you want. Place a generic header, selected it, in inspector change the package to SMD and the number of pins to 1. Do that twice. Place a trace between them, in inspector, set the trace to ‘super fine’, or manually set your choice of size.
Otherwise I think a custom part will be needed.
This implements what @microMerlin suggested with no new parts. It is pcb only, a part would enable appearances in breadboard and schematic if desired. The size of the pad is set to 0.05in (1.27mm) so it will work on 0.1in spacing. The trace can be added or deleted on a case by case basis in the sketch which a part won’t allow.
traces can be connected to the pads in addition to the link between them like this
these pads are SMD (this set is on the top of the board and won’t appear on the bottom unless you move them there) which is likely desirable.
Peter
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That makes sense. Thanks!
I need to further investigate the unique PCB vs Schematic vs Breadboard parts.
Hi Peter,
Can you make a solder mask blocking object? I have a PCB that uses your SMD pad idea, but the solder mask prevents the trace from being easily cut. it IS cuttable, but the solder mask holds the copper together, keeping the trace connected. I had to score through it several times to make the cut.
If there’s a way to block out an area for the solder mask, similar to how the COPPER FILL BLOCKER works, I think we can achieve a really good cuttable trace option.
Yes but it is a part (and thus fixed size) an easier solution is to use 3 pads like this
here I reduced the size of the middle pad in Inspector. You can (but should not) connect to the bridge link and DRC objects to the overlap but that can be ignored it won’t hurt anything you do still need to resolve any other DRC errors though. The gerber output (copper top and mask top layers looks like this which should do what you want.
and you can change the size of the pads in inspector (unlike a part!)
Peter