Hello,
A newbie question: I need to create a PCB with several 1206 footprints with just ENIG exposed.
When I add a library footprint for a 1206 resistor it puts a solder paste layer as well (and they are gray in 3D). If I send those files to a PCB manufacturer will they actually put the solder paste? If yes, how to remove such layer from the footprints?
If you are just making a PCB without assembly, the solderpaste layer is not needed and will not be used even if sent to them. So you don’t need to generate it.
If you also purchased assembly, the solderpaste layer will be used to make a stencil to apply solderpaste.
If you want to do your own assembly, you can purchase a stencil from them made from the solderpaste layer. That is, if you are doing reflow assembly. Hand assembly doesn’t need a stencil of course.
Thank you! I am making a PCB without assembly. Do I need to exclude it explicitly or they would just ignore it?
They will ignore it even if you forget to exclude it.
Thank you for your help!