Definition

A solder bridge is an unintended solder connection between two or more pads or traces that should be electrically isolated. Bridges cause short circuits that can damage components or prevent the board from functioning. Common causes include excessive solder paste, insufficient pad spacing, poor stencil design, or component misalignment. PCB design prevention: maintain adequate pad-to-pad spacing (minimum 0.2mm for fine-pitch, 0.3mm preferred), use solder mask dams between pads where possible, and follow IPC footprint recommendations. Solder bridges are detected by AOI or electrical testing and can often be repaired by reflow or manual touch-up.