Leadless leadframe packaging panel featuring peripheral dummy leads

Methods and apparatuses for providing leadless leadframes with dummy contact leads are disclosed. A leadframe is described that includes an enclosed frame having two lengthwise portions and two widthwise portions. The leadframe also includes a device area array with dummy contact leads formed on the peripheral edges of the device area array. Furthermore, dummy contact leads are positioned along a tie bar such that they are directly opposite corresponding contact leads. By cutting along the tie bar, dummy contact leads are separated from the device area array.