What's a Fiducial?

[pierrotQMPXK]

Good day and happy new year!!!

I am working, or let's say, adapting a PCB.

On the original PCB, there is a part U&12 and if I open the the property I can see the following

On the PCB, I can see a point where solder can be.

But what's it?
Can I remove it, because I can not make a link with another part?

Many thank for your support and help!!

Cheers

[TravisJoe]

Hello,

They are simply reference markers on the board for the assembly machines to align them during processing. Ideally they are high contrast and accurately. Sometimes they are silkscreen, sometimes they are are copper with the solder mask removed (which is usually preferred).  

Assembly houses will place their own if needed if you do not provide them. 

My short answer is they are not required unless you are getting the board assembled by machines, and even if they were the vendor will place them if you do not. 

Take a look at this

http://www.pcb-3d.com/tutorials/what-is-a-fiducial-mark/