2 sided PCB tool - Layer shift

[QbaMax -]

Hi,

this is my first entry here so sorry if I’ve missed something.

Let me start by saying that I have read the manual.

I have a problem with the 2-sided PCB tool. One of the layers is always shifted in the direction I’ve mirrored it. It ends up with the holes missing the pads on the other side. If I mirror in Y-axis it is shifted in Y-axis, same with X-axis. I did mirror both one side and drill file. I am using BOX setting and the profile/outline as reference. I’m attaching two reference photos. If you need more information or have any suggestion please answer.

Thanks in advance

[Marius Stanciu]

Hi,

If the outline is not symmetrical, which is the case in your situation, then indeed you have a problem and the result is ‘correct’, I mean what is expected.

What version of FlatCAM are you using?

Best regards,
Marius

[QbaMax -]

Thanks for Your response.

I’m using the newest version 8,994 Beta. The outline is indeed asymmetrical. Is there a way to use the tool with not symmetrical outline or do I have to make it square and place my tracks directly in the middle?

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[Marius Stanciu]

I don’t use that much this feature, but I think you may use the Reference: Hole Snap (you need to have both Gerber and Excellon loaded), click Pick Hole, then click a pad that is on Top and Bottom and has a hole inside. You can pick one that is more central so the board is flipping more or less on the same area, to make the most of the space you have on your CNC.

[QbaMax -]

Thank You. I will try that next. Hope it works and if not I’ll fight with the 'Box' setting some more I must be missing something simple.

Thanks again

[Marius Stanciu]

It’s been a while since I’ve added those features and the app is now too complex so I kind of forget what I wanted at that time especially things that I don’t use.

[QbaMax -]

Sure thing, I’ll figure this out sooner or later. One more question to the method You described. Can I create the alignment holes by using the outline as reference or how would You do it?

[Marius Stanciu]

When a Box object is used as reference for mirroring, in reality what is used as reference is the center point of the bounding box of that object.

So yes, it is possible to do it in order to generate the second point of the Alignment holes.
First point coordinates are obtained either by entering a coordinates pair (or more) in the Alignment Drill Coordinates field or by simply SHIFT+ left click on canvas where you want the first hole and then paste the values in the above mentioned field. The mirror reference is the one set like above and the axis of mirroring is set Mirror Operation → Axis radio button.

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[QbaMax -]

Exactly what I needed. Thanks a lot.

[Marius Stanciu]

Knowledge issue.