Top 6 Considerations You Must Know About PCB Designs

March 27th, 2024

Electronics devices and parts are existing everywhere in this big data era, and more and more engineers trying to step in the electronics design and development. As a one-stop PCB and PCBA manufacturer in China, Best Technology would like to share some basic considerations and tips during the PCB designs. Hope this can help you.

Substrate Material

Substrate is the main composition of a circuit board and it mainly used for suppler and copper foil insulation. The commonly materials are FR4 and PI. FR4 is a widely acceptable international grade for fiberglass reinforced epoxy laminated, and it always used for making rigid PCB or rigid-flex PCB. FR4 substrate has good insulation and mechanical strength, so it can be widely used in various applications. However, PI has higher heat and chemistry resistance, more suitable for high temperature and chemical corrosion environment. Ā 

Circuit Layout

The layout design depends on the dimensions, performance and reliability of a circuit board, it is needed to follow your supplierā€™s standard to make sure the fast production time and high quality.

  • Min line width

Please make sure your line width within your supplierā€™s manufacturing capability, that is to say, if it is less than the minimum line width will not able to be produced. The best way is if the design conditions available, the larger the line width, the better the factory production. Generally, the line width keeps around 10mil is the best. In another word, if your line width is less than normal standard, it would be difficult for you to find a suitable supplier.

  • Min line spacing

Min line spacing means the distance between trace and trace. Normally, from the production aspect, the distance from line to pads should not less than min line spacing, and it would be better if it is larger, generally equal to or more than 10mil.

  • The spacing between circuit to outline should be control in 20mil.

Plug-in Hole

The diameter of plug-in hole should be considered by the side of components, but it is necessary that it must greater than the componentā€™s pins, it is recommended that greater at least 0.2mm. That is to say, if the pin of components is 0.6mm, then the plug-in holes should be greater than 0.8mm. Otherwise, the plug-in components would be probably difficult to insert into PCB because of the tolerance control during the manufacturing and assembly.Ā 

Min Hole Diameter

As we all know, the holes in PCB almost be used for mounting components, connect circuit and provide the electrical connection between layers. So how to design the hole also is crucial during the designing. Generally, the min hole diameter depends on the drill bitter that vendor used, always around 0.2-0.4mm. You can ask your supplier during the design evaluation.

Copper Thickness

Copper foil is a layer of metal foil on the PCB board that is used to conduct current. The thickness of copper foil is usually in oz (ounces), such as 1oz, 2oz, 3oz, etc. The thickness of the copper foil will affect the conductivity and heat dissipation performance of the PCB board.

Impendence Control

Impedance control is a key parameter in high-speed signal transmission and high-frequency circuit design. It involves board thickness, copper foil thickness, substrate dielectric constant, pad and line layout and other factors to improve the signal integrity and anti-interference ability of the PCB board.

The production process of PCBs is rather complex, involving a wide range of techniques from simple mechanical processing to sophisticated machining, so you should understand the design rules very clearly when you are trying to design a PCB board. Its applications are also diverse, from consumer electronics to industrial machinery, where PCBs are utilized.

Best Technology offers one-stop PCB solutions, we offer service from prototyping to large-scale production and assembly. With experienced engineers and service teams, we ensure successful fulfillment of your requirements. Just send us with your design files, and we will make the circuit board for you in a very short time.

Do You Know What Is PCB Stiffener Busbar?

March 27th, 2024

Busbar PCB is an electronic component, also known as a socket board or mother board, which is an important part of an electronic device and is used to connect and transmit current and signals, so it plays a crucial role in the design of electronic devices. Busbar PCB is like a PCB coated with an ā€œearā€, which we also call it as stiffener busbar. Want to know more about it? Welcome to reading on!

(Busbar_pcb)

What is PCB Stiffener Busbar?

A busbar circuit board is a key component used in electrical systems. It usually consists of a main conductive busbar (usually copper or aluminum) that is covered with an insulating material such as plastic or resin. Busbar boards are used to transmit high currents in power systems, such as in industrial equipment, power distribution systems, and control panels.

These boards typically have multiple slots for inserting electrical connectors or electrical devices. The design of the bus board can be customized according to the specific application requirements to adapt to different current and voltage requirements. They are widely used in the industrial and commercial sectors because they provide reliable power transmission and connectivity solutions.

(Busbar_aluminum_pcb)

What Are Benefits of Using a Busbar PCB?

Busbar stiffener pcb serves as a crucial element of conducting electricity, especially when simplifying the power distribution process, saving costs and requiring greater flexibility. They come in a variety of sizes and different coatings, such as aluminum and copper. The material type, dimension, size and shape of the busbar determine the current capacity it can carry. Compared with a coil harness, though it is expensive in manufacturing, but has longer life and does not need to replace in a short time. Here we listing some benefits of busbar PCB:

  • Efficient Power Distribution

With the fast development of new energy cars and vehicles, the electronic parts in the cars also should updated to meet the demands of renewable energy powers. So the busbar PCB stands out because it can distribute the powers in devices efficiently. Meanwhile, it also can help to reducing the consumption of energy. Because of its integrated nature, it can easily adapt to the integration of renewable energy, which is quite intriguing to consider in this advanced era of energy.

  • High Conductivity

The busbar stiffener on a PCB is typically crafted from either copper or aluminum. Copper, renowned for its excellent conductivity, stands out as the preferred material for busbars due to its capacity to facilitate the flow of electrons. Moreover, copper’s robust nature enables it to withstand harsh environmental conditions and high temperatures, thus bolstering its longevity and durability. But if you want PCB that can carry higher conductivity, ceramic PCB is the best choice but a little bit higher cost.

(Busbar_copper_pcb)
  • Can be Customized

Busbar is a highly customization product in PCB design, it offers various options for its mechanical capability. So maybe you can find it in every industry, such as educations, medical instruments, factories, communications and various electronic devices. Tight space and compact devices require substitute electrical distribution, and busbars serve the purpose right. Due to its high compact and strong mechanical and chemistry, busbar PCB can be used in extremely harsh weather. This makes them a good choice in substations or devices that need to used outdoors.

  • Space Saving

Due to the copper materials mounted on the PCB, Busbar PCBs can replace multiple traces with a single, wider conductive strip, saving valuable space on the board. This compact design is particularly useful in applications where space is limited. In addition, busbar PCB provides multi-layer structure when your design is complex and has density traces network.

By means our extensive PCB & PCBA manufacturing and professional engineering team, we are highly able to build and design busbar PCBs according to your specific requirements. Meanwhile, we follow the strict quality system to make sure the high-quality of products. You are welcome to contact us or send e-mail if you want to make such busbar stiffener PCB.

What Are the Benefits of DFM in PCB Manufacturing?

March 18th, 2024

In the PCB manufacturing, we always heard a word ā€“ DFM, do you know what is DFM? And how does it affect the manufacturing? Herein, Best Team would like to explain the DFM and its benefits for you.

What is DFM?

DFM stands for Design for Manufacturing. It is an engineering approach focused on designing products in a way that optimizes their manufacturability, testability, and reliability right from the beginning stages of product development.

The goal of DFM is to simplify the manufacturing process, reduce production costs, and improve the overall quality of the final product. This involves considering manufacturing constraints and capabilities early in the design phase to minimize complexities, facilitate assembly, and enhance efficiency in production. By integrating DFM principles, manufacturers and engineers/designers can achieve cost savings, faster time to market, and higher-quality products.

What We Should Considered About Design for Manufacturing?

Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is guided by several key principles aimed at optimizing the design of products for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes. Here are five fundamental principles and considerations must know of DFM:

  1. Design

We all know the more complex the design, the greater the risk during the manufacturing. Therefore, keep the design as simple as possible while meeting the functional requirements of the product. Simplifying the design including reduce the number of parts, assembly steps, and manufacturing processes involved, which in turn lowers production costs and minimizes the risk of errors or defects.

  • Standardization

In the PCB industry, there is an IPC standard to standardized all the elements design in PCB, this involved the line width, line spacing, solder mask thickness, text height and so forth. By using standardized parts and processes, manufacturers can take advantage of economies of scale, reduce lead times, smooth the manufacturing process and simplify supply chain management. Standardization also ensures the interchangeability, repair, and maintenance of products.

  • Design for Assembly (DFA)

If you are trying to mount some components to keep and enhance the performance of product, then DFA is must to take into account. Arrange components on the PCB layout in a way can minimize signal interference, reduces trace lengths, and simplifies assembly. Placing components strategically can improve signal integrity, reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), and facilitate automated assembly processes.

  • Material

Select materials and manufacturing processes that are readily available, cost-effective, and well-suited to the intended application. Consider factors such as material properties, availability, recyclability, and environmental impact when making material choices. Designing for materials involves optimizing designs to minimize material waste and maximize efficiency in material usage.

  • Testability and Debugging

Design PCBs with features that facilitate testing, troubleshooting, and debugging during manufacturing and assembly. Include test points, debug headers, and built-in self-test (BIST) circuitry to simplify testing and diagnostics. Design PCBs with clear labeling, documentation, and accessibility to aid in maintenance and repair.

What Are the Benefits of DFM Analyzing?

The mainly benefits of using DFM is save cost. You know, when creating a new project, we need put much money and time in designing and prototyping. DFM helps identify potential manufacturing issues early in the design phase, allowing for cost-effective modifications before production starts. By optimizing designs for manufacturability, companies can avoid expensive rework and reduce overall production costs. Statistically, we can save around 170 thousand dollars one year by adopting DFM analyzing (human cost, trail-production cost and repair cost). In addition, DFM offers numerous benefits including:

  • Reduce potential quality defects
  • Facilitate production process improvement
  • Decrease trial production cycles
  • Quick time to market
  • Enhanced product quality and stability
  • Mitigate risks associated with personnel changes

How to Find a Manufacturer with DFM Service?

Finding a reliable DFM manufacturer is essential for ensuring the success of your product development. Best Technology engaging in PCB manufacturing for more than 17 years, and we have many experts that can help to solve and provide PCB solution for you. Meanwhile, we have professional DFM system that can help to quickly diagnose the design exception such as components missing, trace layout, open/short circuit. With our expertise and advanced tools, we ensure that your PCB designs are optimized for efficient manufacturing, resulting in high-quality products that meet your specifications and exceed expectations. Trust Best Technology to be your partner in achieving excellence in PCB manufacturing.

2024 Newest Guide to High Thermal Conductivity PCBs

March 18th, 2024

Currently, with the rapid development of the digital era, the demands and requirements for electronics have increased significantly. Many double-sided and multi-layer boards have high density and power, making it difficult to dissipate heat efficiently. Conventional printed circuit board substrates such as FR4 and CEM3 are poor thermal conductors with interlayer insulation, the heat canā€™t transfer out, which leading to high-temperature failure of electronic components and devices. So, engineers and researchers are aiming to find high thermal conductivity PCBs to solve such problems, and metal core PCB and ceramic PCB stand out at this time.

Metal core PCB is a type of PCB that made by metal alloy material as the base core, commonly are aluminum core or copper core, rarely is iron PCB. They are popular because of its good heat dissipation properties and good mechanical strength.

What is Aluminum PCB and Why Use It?

Aluminum substrate is a low-alloyed Al-Mg-Si series high-ductility alloy sheet. It exhibits excellent thermal conductivity, electrical insulation properties, and mechanical machinability. Compared to traditional FR-4, with the same thickness and line width, aluminum substrate can carry higher currents, withstanding voltages up to 4500V. Its thermal conductivity coefficient exceeds 2.0.

A normal single side (1L) aluminum core PCB consists of three layers, aluminum base, dielectric layer and copper trace layer. Generally speaking, 1L aluminum PCB is always used for LED lighting, high current LED, spotlight, etc. So it also called LED PCB. For high-end applications, there are also designs for double-sided boards, structured as circuit layer, insulation layer, aluminum base, insulation layer, and circuit layer. In rare cases, multi-layer boards are used, which can be composed of multi-layer FR4 boards laminated to insulation layers and aluminum base.

Aluminum_PCB

The thermal conductivity of aluminum core is range from 1-3W/m.k, the higher conductivity, the better heat dissipation. However, not all the projects is suitable for higher conductivity, it should depend on the specific requirements, such as mechanical strengthen, corrosivity. Nowadays, Best Technology used 6061, 5052, 1060 aluminum alloy as the metal core, others also available if customers have requirements.

How Does Copper Core PCB Works?

Copper substrate is the most expensive type among metal substrates, offering significantly better thermal conductivity compared to aluminum and iron substrates. It is suitable for high-frequency circuits, regions with large temperature variations, and precision communication equipment for heat dissipation purposes, as well as in the construction and decoration industries.

The copper PCB’s circuit layer requires a significant current-carrying capacity, thus necessitating the use of thicker copper foils, typically ranging from 35Ī¼m to 280Ī¼m in thickness. The thermal insulation layer is the core technology of the copper substrate, composed of aluminum oxide and silicon powder as the main thermal conductive components, filled with a polymer of epoxy resin. It exhibits low thermal resistance (0.15), excellent viscoelastic properties, and possesses the ability to resist thermal aging, withstanding mechanical and thermal stresses.

The metal base layer of the copper substrate serves as its supporting component, requiring high thermal conductivity. It is typically made of copper foil, though copper plate can also be used (with copper PCB offering better thermal conductivity, around 1-400W/m.k). These substrates are suitable for conventional mechanical processing methods such as drilling, punching, and cutting.

Copper_core_PCB

What Are Differences Between Copper and Aluminum PCB?

Though both copper and aluminum are metal core PCB, they still have some differences in characteristic and manufacturing. Knowing their differentiation can help you to understanding and making correct decision in material selection.

  • Material

Copper has excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, so copper PCB is well-suit for high frequency circuits and high-power electronic equipment. While aluminum is slightly inferior to the copper base, so it is a good choice of low-power devices.

  • Cost

Compared with copper, aluminum PCB has much advantages in cost, so if you have limited budget and require to use for low-power equipment such as LED lights, aluminum is the better one.

  • Manufacturing

Due to copper has great hardness and good strengthen, it requires for special technical and complex processes, for example: chemical etching, electro-plating. However, the lightweight of aluminum makes it easy in manufacturing. In addition, PTH (plated through holes) can be created on copper PCBs, but not on aluminum ones.

  • Physical Property

The difference in elastic modulus between copper and aluminum is significant, resulting in less warping and expansion/contraction in copper substrates compared to aluminum substrates.

  • Application

Aluminum PCB is lighter than copper substrate, the material cost is lower, often used in daily LED lights or electronic equipment. Because of its strong thermal conductivity and better electrical conductivity, copper substrate is usually used in high-speed circuits and high energy circuits. In addition, copper substrates are also widely used in areas requiring high heat transfer and heat dissipation performance, such as power amplifiers, power supplies, power tools, automotive engine controllers and solar inverters.

Sink_Pad_PCB

What is Ceramic PCB? And Its Thermal Conductivity?

Ceramic PCB is one of the high thermal conductivity PCBs in this industry. They have good high-frequency properties and electrical properties, and have high thermal conductivity, chemical stability and excellent thermal stability of organic substrates without. It is a new generation of large-scale integrated circuits and power electronics module ideal packaging materials. The thermal conductivity of the ceramic substrate can reach about 220W/ M.K according to the preparation method and the material formula. Theoretically speaking, the thermal conductivity of ceramic circuit made by alumina is 24-28W/m.k, AlN is 150-240W/m.k and for BeO is 22-250W/m.k.

Ceramic PCB can be divided into various types of PCB according to its different PCB manufacturing process, they are thick film, thin film PCB, DPC, DBC, HTCC and LTCC ceramic circuit board. Different types of PCB made in different temperature and uses different materials, this means they have different chemistry and physical properties. So you should take them into consideration when designing a ceramic PCB for your device.

Ceramic_PCB

A Reliable PCB Supplier in China ā€“ Best Technology

Whatever you choose metal core PCB or ceramic PCB, a reliable supplier is necessary and needed. Best Technology has extensive manufacturing experience in PCB and we are very confident that we can serve you the best service and high-quality product. With rich experience and strong R&D team, we know how to provide you the best solution and evaluate the design files for you. We have professional DFM (Design For Manufacturing) process to identify the mistakes or inappropriate layout in design. Welcome to contact with us to discuss your PCB projects.

Top 1 Design and Manufacturing Considerations for Bendable Aluminum PCBs

March 7th, 2024

You know, bendable aluminum PCBs have gained prominence in various electronic applications due to their unique ability to flex and conform to curved surfaces. Unlike traditional rigid PCBs that are commonly composed of materials like fiberglass , these PCBs utilize aluminum as the base material, allowing it bendable and flexibility when needed. Compared to the rigid characteristics of traditional metal core PCB, bending aluminum PCB can be adapted to specific space requirements and shape requirements. In this article, we will introduce the characteristics of bendable aluminum PCBs and explore the key considerations that engineers and manufacturers need to pay attention during the design and production process.

What Are the Benefits of Bendable Aluminum PCBs?

May some designers are reraly to know the bendable aluminum PCB, in their congnition, the bendable PCBs are including flex circuits, rigid flexible circuit and FFC, and aluminum PCB is classfied into one of rigid PCB. But here, Best Technology is so proud to say, we have developed bendable aluminum PCB and we can manufacture it with fast delivery and high-quality, this is what we prouded.

The primary advantage of bendable aluminum PCBs is their flexibility. They can be bent and shaped to fit into various form factors and designs, making them suitable for applications where space is limited or where flexibility is required and traditional rigid boards are not ideal. Common applications include wearable devices, curved displays, and other electronic systems with unconventional form factors.

Additionally, bendable aluminum PCB has the advantages of aluminum, so it has good heat dissipation and higher thermal management than traditional PCBs. This feature is crucial for maintaining the reliability and performance of electronic devices, especially those operating in high-temperature environments.

Considerations During the Design Process

Al Material Selection:

Considering that it is a bendable aluminum substrate, it must be satisfied that the material selection should be bendable but at the same time have good heat dissipation of the metal base. This aluminum base material is a specially designed aluminum alloy or aluminum base composite material. Meanwhile, the thickness of the material is critical, such as the material is generally from 0.2mm to 1.6mm, of which 0.2mm to 1.0mm is the more common bending metal substrate thickness.

Flexibility Requirements:

Defining the flexibility requirements is a crucial step in the design process. The degree of bending, bending radius, and any other factors related to flexibility must be clearly defined based on the intended application. For instance, a wearable fitness tracker might require a specific bending profile to comfortably conform to the curvature of the wrist.

Also note that the bending radius is different for materials of different thicknesses. In general, a smaller bending radius usually corresponds to a thinner board material, while a larger bending radius can accommodate a thicker board material.

Circuit Layout:

The layout of the circuit components plays a pivotal role in ensuring the longevity of bendable aluminum PCBs. Designers should strategically plan the arrangement of components to accommodate bending without subjecting critical elements, such as sensors or microcontrollers, to excessive stress. Even distribution of components contributes to a balanced bending profile.

And the pad should not be designed at the bend of the bending, which will cause damage to the assembly components after bending, or even no way to bend. In addition, the welding pad near the bending cross should also be kept away from the bending line to avoid collision and extrusion of the components after bending.

Bending Radius:

Determining the minimum bending radius that the PCB can tolerate is essential for preventing structural damage or compromise in electrical performance. Specific bending radii should be defined based on the application’s needs. For example, a bendable aluminum PCB designed for a wearable device might need to withstand repeated bending with a predefined radius.

Dielectric Layer:

Choosing an appropriate dielectric material is crucial for maintaining insulation between different layers of the PCB. The dielectric layer should possess flexibility to withstand bending without compromising its insulating properties.

As we know, when design the aluminum PCB, the thermal conductivity is also important. Bendable aluminum also has the thermal conductivity requirement, but when the thermal conductivity material is higher, the higher the content of ceramic powder in material. And when the content of ceramic powder is higher, the brittleness of the material is higher, and it is easier to break or break after bending. The material of 1W/m.k is more bendable than 3W/m.k怂

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Considerations During the Manufacturing Process

Bendable aera lineļ¼š

For the production requirements of the light plate, the V-cut mark is generally used to determine the complete line at the bend, and attention should be paid to the depth control of the v-cut, so as not to damage the line.

Testing and Validation:

Prototyping is a vital phase in the manufacturing process of bendable aluminum PCBs. Thorough testing and validation are necessary to ensure that the PCB meets the required electrical and mechanical specifications. Bending tests simulating the intended application conditions should be performed to assess the PCB’s durability. such as bending test, bending angle test.

Generally speaking, after the bare board finished, itā€™s not bendable to the required angle. In order to avoid bad transportation or collision, some customers require not to bend and they will bend it by themselves. But if the customers donā€™t want to bend the board by himself, we also can help to bend it, it will require mold and it need to custom the package for shipping. The custom package can help to protect the damage in shipping.

Collaboration with Manufacturers:

Close collaboration with experienced PCB manufacturers is key to successful production. Manufacturers with expertise in flexible PCB fabrication can provide valuable insights into the manufacturing process. Working together ensures that the design aligns with manufacturing capabilities, optimizing the production of bendable aluminum PCBs.

Conclusion

In a word, the design and manufacturing of bendable aluminum PCBs involve a series of critical considerations to ensure the success and reliability of the final product. From material selection and flexibility requirements to testing, validation, and compliance with industry standards, each step plays a pivotal role in creating PCBs that meet the unique demands of modern electronic applications. By carefully addressing these considerations, designers and manufacturers can unlock the full potential of bendable aluminum PCBs in diverse and innovative electronic devices. Welcome to contact Best Technology if you want to know more.

What Is Immersion Silver? Why Choose It for PCB Coating?

February 26th, 2024

Due to the growing concerns and advocacy for environmental friendliness, as well as the prohibition of harmful substances like lead (tin), an increasing number of industries are moving away from the use of HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling) technologies for PCB (Printed Circuit Board) surface treatment. The current trend is to use other surface treatments such as OSP, gold plating, immersion tin, immersion silver, ENIG and ENEPIG. Among them, immersion silver becoming a popular choice since it has excellent performance and cost effectiveness.

What is Immersion Silver Finish?

Immersion silver finishing is an environment friendly surface treatment that coating a layer of silver (about 0.1~0.4um) on the copper surface to ensure the good solderability when assembly. When comparing its functional performance with other surface finishes like OSP and ENIG, immersion silver falls between them. It exhibits outstanding solderability and exceptional solder joint strength, surpassing OSP, which lacks a conductive barrier. However, when employed as a contact surface, immersion silver demonstrates lower strength compared to gold.

What is the Working Principle of Immersion Silver?

Immersion silver finishing uses chemical deposition to finish the whole processes. Electrochemical deposition is a method of reducing and depositing metals onto the surface of an object by controlling the current in a solution. In the immersion silver process, the pad serves as the anode (positive electrode), while silver acts as the cathode (negative electrode), with a current applied between them. This causes silver ions (Ag+) to be reduced to silver metal under the influence of the electric field, subsequently adhering to the pad surface and gradually forming a silver layer.

The displacement reaction of immersion silver is:

2Ag+ + Cu = 2Ag + Cu++

This method utilizes both electrical current and chemical reactions to deposit silver from the solution onto the surface of the PCB pad, creating a uniform and porous silver layer.

Silver Plated Analyzing: Pros vs Cons

Before selecting the immersion silver coating, we should understand its advantages and disadvantages to consider whether it is suitable for your PCB project and end-applications.

Pros of immersion silver:

  1. Cost-effective than immersion gold
  2. Good surface flatness and low contact resistance
  3. Corrosion resistance
  4. Good solderability, especially for BGA chips or smaller components
  5. Environment friendly
  6. High reliability

Cons of immersion silver:

  1. Difficult to handle, must wear gloves
  2. Special storage conditions ā€“ if the package is opened and not all PCBs need to be used, it must be resealed quickly or use them within 24h.
  3. Peelable masks canā€™t to use

Important Points You Must Know About Storage

  1. For storage and handling, it needs more careful than immersion tin and OSP.
  2. It is compliant with ROHS and safer than HASL.
  3. In the dry conditions, it can be stored 6-12months.
  4. PCB with immersion silver must be soldered within 24hours if package is unsealed.
  5. If the immersion silver PCB has been stored for more than 12 months, a solderability testing is must before assembling.

Immersion Silver vs ENIG

ENIG also is a common surface treatment in the PCB manufacturing, its full name is Electroless Nickel/Immersion Gold finishing. The ENIG technology is a relative expensive than immersion silver, and it suitable for more complex layout design.

ENIG plating involves safeguarding the copper pads on PCBs by first applying a layer of nickel and then overlaying the copper surface with a thin layer of gold. In essence, the procedure is akin to immersion silver, but it significantly improves PCBs by providing enhanced resistance to oxidation, superior solderability, and excellent surface planarity.

Letā€™s review the performance comparison between these two surface treatments:

Welcome to contact us if you have any questions about immersion silver or other surface treatment.

What’s the Role of MCPCB in Advancing Teeth Whitening Technology?

January 31st, 2024

In the pursuit of brighter smiles, teeth whitening devices have become indispensable tools, utilizing various techniques to enhance dental aesthetics. Among these, light-based approaches, such as phototherapy and laser treatments, play a significant role. Interestingly, these advanced methods, including ultrasonic vibration, often rely on a crucial technological component ā€“ the Metal Core Printed Circuit Boards (MCPCB). In this blog, we will explore the concept of teeth whitening devices, the technology employed, and delve into why metal core PCB, particularly preferred for LED products, are integral in crafting efficient and reliable teeth whitening instruments.

(Teeth_Whitening_Devices_Illuminating_Smiles)

What is the Purpose of Teeth Whitening Equipment?

Teeth whitening devices are designed to improve the color of teeth, aiming for a whiter and brighter appearance. These devices apply various techniques, each contributing to the overall effectiveness of the whitening process. Notably, light-based methods have gained prominence, with two prominent technologies standing out: light phototherapy and laser treatments.

Light Phototherapy: This approach involves using specific wavelengths of light to activate whitening agents on the tooth surface. Patients wear protective eyewear while the device emits light, expediting the whitening process.

Laser Treatments: Similar to phototherapy, lasers target whitening agents, enhancing their efficacy. Typically conducted in professional dental settings, laser treatments offer precise and accelerated teeth whitening.

Ultrasonic Vibration: Some devices employ ultrasonic vibration, utilizing the principle of mechanical oscillation to enhance the penetration and effectiveness of whitening agents.

Why choose MCPCB for Teeth Whitening Devices?

Behind the scenes of these advanced teeth whitening technologies lies a critical component ā€“ the metal substrate. Often, LED products utilized in teeth whitening devices prioritize metal substrate for their construction. But what exactly is a metal core PCB, and why is it the preferred choice?

Understanding Metal Substrates: The Foundation of Reliability

MCPCB (Metal Core Printed Circuit Board) is a specialized type of printed circuit board characterized by the presence of a layer of metal with excellent thermal conductivity on the substrate. Typically, MCPCBs are composed of a metal core, insulating layer, and copper foil, with the thermal conductivity of the metal core being a significant distinction from conventional FR4 circuit boards.

Key Features of Metal core PCB: Unveiling secret

Superior Thermal Conductivity: Teeth whitening devices often utilize technologies such as light or laser, generating heat during operation. the metal core of MCPCB exhibits exceptional thermal conductivity, effectively dissipating heat to prevent overheating. This property ensures efficient heat dissipation, a critical factor in devices requiring prolonged operation, such as teeth whitening instruments.

Regarding the metal base of MCPCB, aluminum base or copper base are commonly used for MCPCB, itā€™s also help to make the good heat dissipation than FR4PCB, like aluminum base has 205W/m.k and copper base has 398W/m.k, as you can see the thermal conductivity of copper base is better than aluminum base, so if your products need a more higher heat dissipation, welcome to consider copper core PCB, but please noted that copper is expensive than aluminum, which material depends on your requirement.

As thermal conductivity, itā€™s more important in MCPCB, since the higher the thermal conductivity, the higher the ability of heat dissipation, for now, the highest thermal conductivity is 8W/m.k in Best Technology, but for normally, 1W/m.k, 2W/m.k and 3W/m.k is enough for LED products.

Enhanced Heat Dissipation: MCPCB excels in dissipating heat, preventing overheating during prolonged use. This characteristic is crucial in teeth whitening devices, where maintaining a balanced thermal environment is essential for both device performance and user comfort.

Mechanical Strength: Metal substrates exhibit high mechanical strength, withstanding the rigors of assembly and use. This durability ensures the stability and reliability of the devices over time.

Structural Robustness: Teeth whitening devices may experience mechanical stress during operation, including vibrations or movements. The metal core of MCPCB provides additional structural support, enabling the device to withstand mechanical pressures and enhance overall durability.

Ideal for LED Products: MCPCBs are often the preferred choice for LED products due to their excellent thermal management and structural stability. LED-based teeth whitening devices benefit significantly from MCPCBs, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the LED components.

Why Metal Substrates for Teeth Whitening Devices?

The choice of metal substrates in teeth whitening devices, especially those employing LED technology, is strategic. The need for a material that offers robust electrical conductivity, efficient heat dissipation, and structural integrity aligns perfectly with the characteristics of metal substrates. In LED products, where precision and reliability are paramount, metal substrates emerge as the preferred foundation.

In conclusion, the convergence of advanced technologies for teeth whitening and the reliability of metal substrates highlights the intricate dance between innovation and foundational support. As we continue to seek brighter smiles through cutting-edge dental aesthetics, the role of metal substrates remains fundamental, quietly empowering the devices that illuminate our smiles and boost our confidence.

Best Technology has involved in MCPCB industry from 2006, over 17years, we can help to design, manufacturing and assembly, providing one-step service for our customers, welcome to share your drawing or idea to us, we will back you the best solution!

How Does the Ceramic PCB Works in IGBT Modules?

January 19th, 2024

IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) is a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) with a MOS gate, or we can say that an IGBT module is a combination of BJT and MOS module. Despite its small size, the IGBT chip can control the transmission of electrical energy. It can switch the current 100,000 times within 1 second under an ultra-high voltage of 650 million volts.

What is the Working Principle of IGBT?

IGBT combines the features of a transistor and a switching circuit, making it a new type of electronic component that can control current efficiency. Its structure allows it to achieve current control from turn on to off without generating excessive leakage current, as well as not affecting the operation of other circuits.

The working principle of IGBT modules including two parts – the current control of MOS gate and BJT transistor. When the voltage of MOS gate changes, it affects the conduction of the transistor, thus controlling the flow of current. When the BJT comes into play, it controls the flow of current, so that improve the working efficiency of the IGBT.

(Working_principle_of_IGBT)

How Does A Ceramic PCB Protect IGBT Modules from Overheat?

As you know, IGBT modules have been applied for many years in various industries such as automotive, industrial, aerospace, consumer electronics, and more. However, optimizing the thermal dissipation of IGBT packaging is crucial to enable the modules to operate at higher power conditions. If heat dissipation is improved, IGBT modules can be used in more advanced applications.

You might be wondering how much heat does an IGBT module generate during running? It’s equivalent to the heat produced by 100 electric furnaces. This substantial amount of heat must be dissipated immediately from the IGBT chip, thatā€™s why the ceramic circuit board stands out.

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In IGBT modules, ceramic PCBs are placed beneath the IGBT chip, or we can say the chip is assembled on the ceramic circuit board. The ceramic PCB connects and supports the chip, rapidly dissipating heat to the outer package. This method protects the chip from the adverse effects of heat.

Why ceramic PCBs Are Suitable for IGBT thermal dissipation?

Ceramic materials exhibit excellent thermal dissipation and electrical insulation properties. Unlike aluminum metal core PCBs, ceramic PCBs do not use insulation layers that hinder heat dissipation. In the manufacturing process of ceramic PCBs, copper foil is directly bonded to the ceramic substrate under high pressure and temperature (it depends on the different technology and different copper thickness). During PCB manufacturing, IGBT and other components are mounted on the circuit board through assembly technology.

Ceramic materials have extremely high insulation capabilities, enduring breakdown voltages up to 20KV/mm. At present, there are three ceramic materials that can be used for IGBT modules, they are 99% or 96%怀Alumina (Alā‚‚Oā‚ƒ), Aluminum Nitride (AlN), and Silicon Nitride (Siā‚ƒNā‚„).

The thermal conductivity of alumina PCB is 15-35W/mK, aluminum nitride PCB is 170-230W/mK, and silicon nitride PCB is 80+W/mK. In contrast, aluminum core circuit boards only have a thermal conductivity of 1-12W/mK.

Applications of Ceramic PCBs in IGBT Packaging

Alumina PCBs are the most commonly used circuit boards in IGBT modules due to their lower cost. But if IGBT modules have higher power or precision requirements, AlN ceramic PCBs and Si3N4 PCBs are the most suitable choices. Because they have higher thermal dissipation and thermal expansion coefficients (CTE) close to semiconductors. Since different ceramic substrate has different features, the uses of ceramic PCB should depend on the specific requirements of IGBT modules.

In addition, with the development of Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) materials, they are starting to be used for IGBT chips due to their high-frequency, high-power, and high-temperature characteristics. Maybe in the future, aluminum nitride PCBs and silicon carbide PCBs will be increasingly applied to high-power IGBT modules in high-density three-dimensional packaging.

Common Properties of Using Ceramic Circuit Board

  • Excellent thermal conductivity and voltage resistance of ceramic substrates.
  • Copper trace layers has extremely high current-carrying capacity.
  • Strong adhesion and reliability between circuit layers and ceramic substrates.
  • Good soldering performance, suitable for wire bonding.
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How to Solve the Overheat Issues in IGBT?

Though the ceramic PCB is good at heat dissipation, there still some overheat occasions happened if small power or long-time operation. Here we summarized some solutions for such issues.

1. Clean the heat sink to ensure tight contact between the IGBT and the heat sink.

2. Clean the fan, including the fan blades and lubricate the bearings if needed.

3. Clear the airflow path of the fan.

4. Replace with higher power IGBTs, ensuring the withstand voltage is not lower than the original IGBT’s value.

Above all are the information that weā€™d shared, welcome to contact us if you want to know more. Best Technology is a historic company which has over 17 years PCB manufacturing experience, here you can enjoy the one-stop ODM & OEM service, one-to-one after sales, quick delivery and high-quality products.

Semi-Flexible PCBs: An Amazing Design in Electronics

January 9th, 2024

In the realm of advanced electronic design, Semi-flex PCBs stand out as pioneering solutions. Leveraging specialized FR-4 materials and employing a distinctive manufacturing method, they ingeniously combine the flexibility of a flexible circuit with the convenience of easy installation.

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Do you know what’s Semi-flex PCB?

A Semi-Flexible PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is a type of PCB that offers a compromise between rigid and flexible circuit boards. It incorporates elements of both rigid and flexible PCBs, allowing it to bend to some extent while still maintaining a degree of stiffness. This innovative flex-to-install design not only ensures cost-effectiveness but also opens up a realm of possibilities for diverse applications, making Semi-flex PCBs a versatile and economical solution in the ever-evolving landscape of electronic design. Embracing cutting-edge technology and adaptability, these boards exemplify the ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in electronic engineering.

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Vital Features of Semi-flexible PCBs

In our more than 17 years of experience in the PCB manufacturing field, we take pride in delivering Semi-Flexible PCBs that meet the highest standards of quality and performance. we are happy to share some the key features of our Semi-Flexible PCBs we made:

Flexibility and Bending Capability: The semi-flexible nature of these PCBs allows for bending and shaping, making them suitable for applications with space constraints or those requiring unique form factors.

Reliability: Despite their flexibility, our Semi-Flexible PCBs maintain high levels of reliability and performance. They are designed to withstand bending without compromising the integrity of the circuit.

Space Optimization: The ability to conform to three-dimensional shapes enables better use of available space, making these PCBs ideal for compact electronic devices and innovative product designs.

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As we move forward, we invite you to explore the possibilities that Semi-Flexible PCBs offer and to partner with us in shaping the future of electronic engineering. Together, let us continue to embrace the spirit of innovation and unlock new horizons in the dynamic and rapidly advancing field of technology. Trust Best Technology, we are the BEST!

What Are Differences of ENIG VS ENEPIG in PCB Manufacturing ā€“ Series 2

January 2nd, 2024

In our last blog, we simply introduced ENIG surface treatment in PCB manufacturing, and this time, we will share more information about the comparison of ENIG and ENEPIG.

What is ENEPIG Surface Treatment?

ENEPIG stands for Electroless Nickel Electroless Palladium Immersion Gold. This type of metal coating on the PCB pad surface consists of three layersā€”nickel, palladium, and gold. Apart from protecting the copper surface from corrosion and oxidation, the ENEPIG surface treatment is also suitable for high-density SMT (Surface Mount Technology) designs.

For its manufacturing process, manufacturers begin by activating the copper surface, followed by depositing a layer of electroless nickel, then a layer of electroless palladium, and finally, a layer of immersion gold. The process is somewhat similar to the one they follow in the ENIG process, but adding a palladium layer to the ENIG technology. The palladium layer not only improves the surface protection of the PCB, but also prevents nickel from deteriorating and inhibits interactions with the gold layer.

Pros of ENEPIG Surface Treatment

  • Reduce the black pad issues
  • Excellent solderability and high reflow soldering performance
  • Provide high-reliable wire bonding capability
  • High-density design available
  • Meet the miniaturization standards
  • Suitable for extra thin PCBs

Cons of ENEPIG Surface Treatment

  • Expensive than ENIG process
  • Thicker palladium layer will decrease the effective of SMT soldering
  • Longer wettability time

What are the Differences Between ENIG and ENEPIG?

The main difference between ENIG and ENEPIG is the palladium layer. This is the extra layer that added in ENEPIG process, which provides high oxidation resistance, enhance the electrical performance of the surface cleanliness and improve the abrasion resistance of the PCB surface. However, the palladium layer also increases the cost of manufacturing.

Additionally, the inconsistent surface cleanliness of ENIG, resulting from low solder joint reliability, particularly in gold wire bonding, is a concern. Extra procedures are also required to prevent nickel corrosion in ENIG. When considering it into manufacturing, the ENIG is well-suited for lower-end electronic products.

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The Considerations of Selecting ENIG or ENEPIG Surface Finishing

Though both two surface treatments offer excellent electrical performance and heat dissipation properties, there are still some conditions that need to consider when choose them.

  • Budget

Cost is an important factor when choose a suitable surface treatment. As we explain above, ENEPIG is expensive than ENIG, if you are trying to find a relative cost-effective coating, then ENIG is the best choice.

  • End-applications

The end-applications or finished products also determined the selection of surface finishing. For example, if your PCB will be used in high temperature applications, ENIG would be the better one since it can withstand high temperature.

  • Flatness

Many traditional surface finishes have poor flatness and smoothness, this brings the big challenge of small-size components mounted. Especially for those fine-pitch components like BGA, an uneven surface can result many problems. However, both ENIG and ENEPIG offer highly smooth surface finishes, forming thin and uniform layers on the solder pads.

  • Bonding demand

ENEPIG provides the optimal choice for wire bonding due to its highly smooth surface finish, which enhances wire bonding capabilities.

  • Environment-friendly

Some traditional surface treatments contain hazardous substances, making them non-compliant with RoHS requirements. Both ENIG and ENEPIG made by Best Technology are fully RoHS compliant and lead-free, so you are donā€™t worry about the environment unfriendly.

At the end, the choice between ENIG and ENEPIG surface treatments in PCB manufacturing involves a careful consideration of various factors. While both options offer excellent electrical performance, heat dissipation properties, and compliance with environmental standards like RoHS, specific project requirements and priorities will guide the decision-making process. If you are still confuse about the selection of surface treatment, welcome to contact with us, Best Team will give you a best solution that can meet your specific demands and save money for you.