How to Specify Plated Through Slots in Gerber Files

Some PCB layout software packages don’t have an option for creating plated slots  for components with blade-style through hole connections. These slots are common on USB connectors, barrel jack connectors, power supply modules, etc. 

Some engineers will specify a large enough circular cutout for the component legs to fit but this could lead to extra manufacturing steps or defects. For example, solder may drip down your component and through to the other side and there could be invisible solder join voiding. 

If your software can’t export slotted plated holes or oval plated holes then you should make the shape of the hole in the dimension layer (or board outline layer) and draw an arrow  with text saying “plated slots” or any other equally obvious text. CAM engineers will see this message and see it through. 

The same goes for non-plated slots and non-plated oval holes. Simple text with arrows is usually sufficient in most cases. 

Include a drawing along with your gerber files and leave a message in the special instructions section to be extra sure.