Shenzhen, China – December 1, 2025 – I.C.T today announced that a 50-employee electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider in Shenzhen has successfully deployed its compact desktop PCB router for in-house low-volume depaneling.
Previously the factory outsourced all prototype and small-series panel separation, incurring minimum 3-day turnaround plus shipping costs. Manual in-house attempts resulted in inconsistent edges, high rework, and excessive FR-4 dust exposure.
The new desktop system occupies less than one square meter, operates on standard 220 V power, and features integrated dust collection that reduces airborne particles to below 20 µg/m³. Operators import standard Gerber files, select straight or radius milling bits, and begin production within minutes.
Performance data collected over several weeks shows average depaneling time of 8–15 seconds per panel, edge quality comparable to laser systems, and repeat positioning accuracy of ±0.05 mm. After processing over 3,000 panels, yield improved from 93 % to 99.7 %.
A recent 500-unit wearable order with 48-hour delivery requirement was completed the same evening after SMT, enabling overnight shipment — a feat the factory previously considered impossible.
Annual depaneling costs have fallen by more than RMB 150,000 ($21,000 USD). Production Manager Zhou commented, “We finally control our own schedule and our operators work in a cleaner, safer environment.”
The solution is attracting interest from startups, universities, and contract manufacturers seeking affordable access to automated depaneling without large footprint or utility requirements.