Component Placement

Orient polarized components (caps, diodes, ICs) consistently — reduces visual inspection errors
Maintain minimum 0.15mm clearance between SMD components on same side
Keep tall components (electrolytic caps, inductors) away from SMT solder areas
Place connectors along board edges with clearance for mating and strain relief
Position fiducial marks (minimum 3 per side) in corners, away from components and board edges