A PCB project validation error means that a tool or review process found an input that does not meet its expected rules. Start by identifying which stage produced the message: file parsing, schematic checks, layout rules, manufacturing data preparation or an inquiry form. The same word, “validation,” can describe very different checks.
Record the exact failing input
Keep the error text, file name, tool version and steps needed to reproduce the problem. Work on a copy of the released files. If a file was exported from another application, record its format, units and export settings. Changing several unrelated settings at once makes it harder to identify the cause and demonstrate that the correction is complete.
Distinguish a missing or malformed input from a valid input that violates a design rule. A CSV file with inconsistent columns needs a data-format correction. A copper-clearance finding needs an engineering review of the layout and the approved rule. Suppressing the message is not the same as resolving the underlying condition.
Match the error to the appropriate check
| Category | Investigation |
|---|---|
| BOM parsing | Check delimiter, quoting, required columns, part numbers and quantities. |
| Electrical connectivity | Review the intended circuit and the meaning of the reported connection or pin condition. |
| Layout geometry | Compare the flagged objects with the approved clearance, width or drill rules. |
| Manufacturing export | Check units, origins, layer identity, board profile and drill mapping. |
| Form submission | Check the displayed required fields, field lengths and accepted data format. |
Use a controlled correction loop
- Reproduce the finding using the recorded files and settings.
- Identify the rule or format expectation involved.
- Make one documented correction or obtain an approved exception.
- Rerun the original check and relevant dependent checks.
- Export a new revision when the manufacturing package changes.
As an example, a BOM value containing a comma can be split incorrectly if the field is not quoted in a comma-separated file. Correcting the CSV structure may restore the intended columns. That fix does not establish that the manufacturer part number is valid, available or suitable for the footprint; those are separate checks.
Know the limits of each checker
The browser-local RFQ BOM checker checks selected required columns, missing part numbers and quantity formatting. It does not upload the file, analyze Gerber geometry, verify component authenticity or approve the circuit. A passing result means that the checked conditions passed, not that every engineering requirement is satisfied.
For manufacturing questions, include the relevant error message and a concise description of the intended design. Use the DFM review checklist to organize unresolved items. Request a file-package review