You can edit the solder mask in Altium by modifying its shape, and you can make the solder mask adopt the shape of your top layer.
Here's how to approach editing the solder mask, based on the information provided in the video reference, which explains the process alongside paste mask editing:
Editing Solder Mask Shape
The core concept is that you can directly adjust the solder mask's shape. This is crucial for:
- Customizing Pad Coverage: Ensuring the solder mask properly exposes pads for soldering while preventing unwanted solder bridges.
- Fine-Tuning Component Placement: Allowing for specific component placement with precise solder mask openings.
Making the Solder Mask Adopt the Shape of a Top Layer
Here's how to achieve this, drawing from the video's explanation:
- Rule Expansion: In Altium, there are settings for expansion rules.
- Select Solder Mask Layer: You can select your desired solder mask layer (e.g. top solder).
- Rule Configuration: You can configure the rule so that your solder mask can adopt the same shape as the top layer.
- Layer Adoption: With the appropriate rule expansion selected, your solder mask layer will automatically conform to the shapes on your chosen layer.
Example:
- If you have a custom pad shape on your top layer and want the solder mask to reflect this, by selecting 'rule expansion' with the appropriate rules your solder mask will adopt the pad shape.
Key Considerations:
- Design Rules: Make sure your design rules are correctly set up to handle solder mask requirements.
- Clearances: Ensure there are adequate clearances between the solder mask and other features (like pads) to avoid issues during manufacturing.
- Layer Stack: The specific layer used (Top Solder, Bottom Solder) for rule expansion is essential.
By using rule expansion, you can efficiently manage and customize solder mask openings according to your design requirements. This approach makes modifying and customizing your solder mask much more effective.
