Laser Resistor Trimming

Laser Trim Types

Plunge Cut: The most economical laser trim type. This is primarily due to the minimum amount of time required to trim the resistor with this technique. Overall tolerance accuracy can be less than the other methods. This method is recommended for DC applications.

L Cut: This method offers increased tolerance accuracy over the Plunge Cut. Due to longer time required to perform this cut, it is slightly more expensive. This method is recommended for DC applications.

Serpentine Cut: This trim type allows wider final value flexibility than the Plunge or L Cut. However, due to the increased number of cuts per resistor required, the price can increase substantially. This method is recommended for DC applications.

Scan Cut: This method offers both high accuracy and high frequency compatibility. The resistor material is removed from the edge of the resistor only. This technique typically requires considerably more time per resistor than the other trim types. It is also more expensive. This method is recommended for all applications.

For more information on resistor trimming, please download document #50025 “Laser Resistor Trimming Design Rules” in PDF format (requires Adobe Reader).

Resitor Trim Type	Recommended Application	Advantages	Disadvantages
Plunge Cut	DC	Minimum cost.	Typically applicable only for DC applications. Limited tolerance capability.
L Cut	DC	Increased Accuracy—Lower tolerances	Typically applicable only for DC applications. Slightly higher cost than Plunge cut.
Serpentine Cut	DC—High value resistors	Increased Ac	Typically applicable only for DC applications. Higher cost than Plunge or “L” cut (depends on quantity of cuts required).
Scan Cut	All	Compatible	Highest cost.