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Do You Know How Does the ENEPIG Working for Wire Bonding Circuit Boards?

Friday, November 10th, 2023

The electronics industry has continuously pursued smaller and faster electronic products with increased functionality. To meet these demands, the electronic packaging industry has focused on developing more advanced packaging methods, aiming to increase the density of components on a circuit board while integrating multiple functions into a densely package.

The increasing density of packaging and interconnection has driven the progression of assembly methods from through-hole technology (THT) to surface-mount technology (SMT). Additionally, the use of wire bonding to connect chips to substrates has become more prevalent. The adoption of smaller interconnect pitches and chip-scale packaging (CSP) has further increased component density, while multi-chip modules (MCM) and system-in-package (SiP) have enabled the integration of more functions on a single package.

This post describes the key factors affecting the reliability of interconnections, with a particular focus on the specific properties of surface-treated wire bonding, emphasizing the selection of wire bonding surface treatments.

Selection of Surface Treatment for Wire Bonding

While electroless nickel gold provides excellent performance for wire bonding, it has three main drawbacks that hinder its application in cutting-edge technologies:

1. The relatively high demand for gold layer thickness leads to lengthy process costs.

2. Thick gold layers are prone to the formation of weak tin-gold intermetallic compounds (IMC), reducing the reliability of solder joints. To enhance solder joint reliability, alternative surface treatments may be used, but this increases additional process costs.

3. The electroplating process requires the use of electroplating lines, limiting the design freedom and wiring density of the packaging substrate.

The limitations posed by electroplated nickel-gold provide an opportunity for the adoption of chemical plating. The techniques of chemical plating include Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG), Electroless Nickel Electroless Gold (ENEG), and Electroless Nickel Palladium Immersion Gold (ENEPIG).

Among these three options, ENIG is generally unproblematic due to its lack of high reliability in gold wire bonding properties (although it has been used in some low-end consumer products). On the other hand, ENEG shares the high production cost and presents complex challenges in terms of the manufacturing process, similar to electroplated nickel-gold.

ENEPIG was initially introduced in the late 1990s, its market acceptance was delayed until around the year 2000 due to fluctuations in palladium metal prices (which were inflated to unreasonable levels around 2000). However, ENEPIG can meet the requirements of many new packaging applications, providing reliable performance and conform to lead-free/ROHS requirements, with a recent strong surge in market demand.

In addition to the advantages in packaging reliability, the cost of ENEPIG is another benefit. With the recent rise in gold prices surpassing US$800/oz, it becomes challenging to control costs for electronic products requiring thick gold plating. The price of palladium (US$300/oz), relative to gold, is less than half, making palladium a cost-effective alternative with surface-related advantages.

Comparison of Surface Treatments

Up to now, for printed circuit boards accommodating fine-pitch QFP/BGA components, there are primarily four lead-free surface treatments:

Immersion Tin (IT)

Immersion Silver (IAg)

Organic Solderability Preservatives (OSP)

Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG)

The table below compares these four surface treatments with ENEPIG. Among these surface treatments, none can simultaneously meet all the requirements of lead-free assembly processes, especially when considering multiple reflow experiences, pre-assembly shelf life, and gold wire bonding experiences. In contrast, ENEPIG offers good shelf life, solder joint reliability, gold wire bonding capability, and can serve as a touch button surface, providing surface-related advantages. Moreover, in the final gold replacement deposition reaction, the chemical palladium layer in ENEPIG works to protect the nickel layer, avoiding excessive corrosion during gold replacement.

(Table 1 – Comparison_of_Different_Surface_Treatment_Performances)

What Are Advantages of ENEPIG?

ENEPIG has several crucial advantages, demonstrating reliable solderability and gold wire bonding concurrently. The key benefits are outlined as follows:

Prevention of “Black Nickel Problem” – The absence of gold replacement attacking nickel on the surface prevents interfacial corrosion.
The chemical palladium layer acts as a barrier, preventing copper from diffusing to the surface, ensuring satisfactory solderability.
Palladium layer enable to completely dissolves in the solder, preventing the exposure of a high-phosphorus layer at the alloy interface. After the dissolution of the chemical palladium layer, the chemical nickel layer is revealed, forming a satisfactory nickel-tin alloy.
Capability to Withstand Multiple Lead-Free Reflow Cycles
Excellent Gold Wire Bonding Properties

These advantages make ENEPIG a preferred choice in various applications, ensuring reliable performance in both soldering and wire bonding processes while offering cost efficiency. As a one-stop PCB supplier in Asia, Best Technology possesses advanced technology and high-tech manufacturing equipment that can meet the “multi-variety, small volume, high quality, strong capability, short delivery” requirements. Welcome to contact us if you are going to find a reliable circuit board manufacturer.

How Can I Reduce and Optimize the Cost of My PCB in A Best Way? – Series 2

Saturday, October 28th, 2023

At our latest blog, may the readers have understood the factors that will affect the PCB price, or maybe one of your have put it into practice that get a price lower than your budget. However, people are always not satisfied by the existing situation. If this is bother you as well, keep reading since this time we are going to sharing some useful tips that enable to optimize your PCB price until to the best.

Reduce board complexity

It can be said that try to simplest your design/layout and make it easy to fabricate is the simplest way to reduce your PCB cost. The more complex and irregular the forms, the higher the cost. Just remember: for every circuit board, no need to maintain a fancy diagram to demonstrate its excellence, perform functionality correctly is enough.

Design it in right size and thickness

Design your board in right size doesn’t means make it smaller as possible. You must know, if your design is complex and layouts are density, that means maker need to spend more time to assemble them. Highly compact sizes are always expensive, don’t skimp when it counts. Otherwise, more money will be spent to afford what you saved.

And in theory, the more layers and thickness the board, the more cost that manufacturer spend. Numerous layers in the PCB will have an influence for holes and diameters. It is recommended that if thinner thickness is enough, then just do it.

Shapes, holes and rings should be regularly

Normally, keep the PCB as square or rectangular shapes is cheaper than irregular shapes like pentagon. And large holes and rings enable to smooth the production run and easy to create. For smaller holes and rings means the driller must be smaller and delicate control.

Consider volume and choose manufacturer

In our last blog, we emphasize manufacturers will set a minimum order quantity (MOQ), it is common in this industry. So, consider your volume and check multiple quantities before ordering can help to recognize which one is the most cost-effective.

During the evaluation period, talk to your suppliers as soon as possible, knowing more about the material specifications, technical and PCB tolerances. A wrong choice will lead to much time waste and some unnecessary cost. This is we call “trial and error cost”. Try to make all things are clear and correct before production.

Pick the best vias

There are totally three types of vias in PCB: though-hole, blind, buried. The through hole can be passed through the whole board, while blind vias is created from top or bottom side to the middle of the board without through to bottom or top side. Buried vias, just as its names, it is buried inside the boards and we can’t see it by naked eyes.

Obviously, through hole is cost performance than other two vias, try to use more instead of blind or buried vias enable to decrease your cost. In additionally, blind and buried vias are always necessary in HDI PCB and RF board, otherwise, you don’t usually use them.

Make sure all SMT components on the one side

Trying to make all the surface mounted (SMT) components on the one side of circuit board if possible. In this way, assembler can finish the SMT process in one-time, so that can save much manufacturing time and cost. But if the components are distributed on both sides, it is needed to assemble two times, that is top side first – bottom side second (or sometimes bottom first).

Select easily replaceable component parts

It is assumed that one of part on your circuit becomes obsolete, then you must search for replaceable part or update your design if you would like to continuedly use this board. As an extensive experienced PCB manufacturer, we strongly recommend that select components that has standard dimension, so that it is easy to match alternative one.

In addition, visit some manufacturer’s website carefully to see if any components are marked as “obsolete” or “not recommended for new designs” before finishing your design. This enables to avoid secondary update.

Follow manufacturer’s PCB fabricate standards

Understand and follow manufacturer’s fabricate standards can keep your unit PCB price in a relative lower cost. When designing a new project, please make sure to following below tips.

Use standard stack-up with standard materials.
Design 2-4 layers PCB if possible.
Keep your minimum line width and spacing within the standard spacing.
Avoid adding extra special requirements as much as possible.

Use SMT components as possible

Choose surface mounted (SMT) components instead of through hole (THT) component whenever possible. SMT and THT are almost treated as separated manufacturing processes. Hence, if all the THT components can be replaced by mounted parts, the THT process will be eliminated completely. It is not only decreasing the manufacturing cost, but also reducing delivery time. Of course, it is not always possible, but it’s worth trying.

Whatever decisions you make, the best solution is to consult and discuss with your suppliers. They be always to give you the best one that can save your money and meet your requirements as well. Meanwhile, if you don’t believe the suppliers, you are welcome to reach us. We promise that we can give you a most favorable price and high-quality product.

What Factors Affect the PCB Board Price? How to Keep the Best Price? – Series 1

Saturday, October 28th, 2023

For each development engineer or purchaser, how to keep the cost within the budget is a most irksome and irritating assignment while the PCB has the good quality and enable to perform desired function. They need to understand the computation rule and calculate the developing cost. So, it is worth to knowing the factors that affect the printed circuit board price, and it is a must learn course for every engineers. Herein, Best Technology is going to dissect the factors affect the cost of PCB, let’s move on!

What affects the cost of a PCB?

Drives the cost of PCBs are numerous, we can see from the PCB itself, for example, circuit board substrate materials, the external factors such as the manufacturing difficulties, the whole order quantities and some other special requirements that from designers.

Here, we listing some basic parameter factors which drives the whole cost of a PCB.

PCB substrate material

The substrate of PCB board refers to the material used in the non-conductor part of the circuit board, mainly FR4, glass fiber, epoxy resin, polyimide, copper, aluminum and so on. In the PCB manufacturing, glass fiber is widely used in the manufacture of double-sided circuit board and multi-layer board, while epoxy resin and polyimide are used in the manufacture of high-density multi-layer board. Among them, copper substrate is most expensive material. No matter what kind of materials, all of them shall be calculated according to the real-time international price.

PCB size (panel and single pcs)

PCB size will determine the price of PCBs, this is for sure. Generally speaking, with a same number of PCB layers, the smaller the PCB size, the cheaper the cost. Because during calculating cost, vendors will consider the utilization rate of raw materials. Make sure the highest utilization, the cost for both purchaser and vender will be best. The raw material of PCBs is commonly 1200mm*1200mm, or 1220mm for special specifications, when the utilization achieves 90% or above, this is the best.

So, how to improve the utilization of raw materials? Normally, manufacturers will optimize the working files (WF) from single size to panel size, and then material will be cut according to the panel files. But if the panel size is not suitable, then there will be a lot of waste edges of raw material in the cutting process, and generally this will be added into your PCB price. So that the unit PCB price will be more expensive. In another word, if you PCB size is well-suited, then it is good for PCB manufacturer and yourself. And at this time, the utilization will be the highest and your PCB cost is the cheapest as well.

Line width/spacing

To a certain extent, as long as you are following the PCB design rules, the PCB price will not too high. However, if your design is complex and the line width is extreme thin, then the price will increase since it is difficult to control during manufacturing.

PCB layers

According to the IPC standard, PCBs can be classified to single-layer PCB, double sided PCB and multilayer PCB. For layer count over than 2 layers, we called it as Multilayer PCBs, such as 4 layers PCB, 6 layers PCB. For FR4 PCB, we can make up to 32layers.

Due to the manufacturing process and some unpredictable assembling cycles, the more the layers, the more expensive it is. (The price of single side PCB is the similar to double sided PCBs.)

Solder mask ink color

In the past, it is no doubt that you will spend more if you want every color expect green. But now things are changeable. Most colors are available at no or very little extra cost, which usually only occurs for unique requests such as matte tones.

PCB copper foil thickness

The weight of copper foil depends on the successful utilization of the material. Thicker copper is more expensive and comes with additional manufacturing difficulties and expenses. You may also have to fill the holes with copper foil to connect layers. In addition, heavier copper means you need to spend more cost in shipping. Let’s take a simple example, for aluminum core PCB and copper core PCB, in the same volume and quantities, copper core PCB stands out for expensive shipping cost since it has thicker copper and heavier weight.

PCB surface treatment

Surface treatment is a method that using for protecting the surface from corrosion and improve the solderability. Usually, in consideration of environmental friendliness, vendors can use a couple of gold or silver to achieve further safety for use in some applications.

The commonly used surface treatment methods include OSP, IMMERSION SILVER, ENIG, ENEPIG and HASL (LF). Among them, the price is ENEPIG>ENIG>IMMERSION SILVER>OSP>HASL. You can calculate the PCB board price according to the surface treatment method and gold thickness.

Quantity and lead time

When developing a new project, almost of companies would like to make prototypes first and ask for a sample quotation. However, some PCB manufacturers will set the minimum order quantity, the smaller the quantity, the higher cost the PCB board. Please make sure to check the price for different amount before placing an official order.

Meanwhile, the delivery time request also will affect the whole price in a certain. And certainly, the price of quick turn order and expedited service will higher than normal order.

Other special requirements (impedance, IPC standard)

To ensure the stable transmission of circuit board signals and improve the quality of signal transmission, designers and engineers will ask for impedance control for the traces. This can be seen as special requirements, so it will add a few extra prices. And the required IPC Criteria is a factor as well. Normally, if customer does not have other request, we will default use IPC class II. III level will more expensive.

Above all are the mainly factors that affect the price composition for a printed circuit board. When evaluating your PCB cost, making them in your consideration is best.

PCB and PCBA supplier that can save cost for you – Best Technology

When you are seeking for a reliable PCB and PCBA supplier, I would like to recommend Best Technology to you. Best Tech offers one-stop service including raw material purchasing, PCB making, components searching, assembly, box building and package out of warehouse. What we can provide is not limited to PCB, but also metal core PCB, ceramic PCB, flexible PCB, rigid flex PCB, special PCB like HDI PCB, heavy copper PCB, extra thin PCB and so on. During the 17 years, the Best Technology company has served include medical industry, consumer electronics, new energy, automotive electronics, aerospace, military and others.

Could it be said that you are searching for a PCB supplier that can provide favorable price that lower than market? If this is true, please go ahead and reach us today, let’s talk about more PCB information right now and start our business trip together. We promise, when you decide to take the first step, and we’ll take the remaining 99 steps.

The Differences Between Copper PCB and Heavy Copper PCB?

Saturday, October 21st, 2023

With the fast development of digital era, printed circuit board (PCB) has won a huge market in the electronic industry. Nowadays, electronics can be found everywhere, I can say for each electronic products, you will find a PCB or several pcbs are inside. But not every PCB are the same, each printed circuit board plays its unique roles. When it comes to copper pcb, may someone will think about heavy copper pcb, or even think they are the same. But actually, they are totally different, totally from constructure and functions.

What is Copper PCB?

Copper PCB, also known as Copper Core PCB, Copper-based PCB or Copper Clad PCB, which is a type of metal core PCB (MCPCB) that uses copper core as the base substrate. Among all of the PCB types, copper clad pcb is well-known for its extreme high thermal conductivity, which enables to achieve to 401W/m.K, that’s why some people think it is the king of the metal core PCB.

Copper-based PCB consists of three layers: copper foil layer, dielectric layer and base copper layer. Copper foil layer is the electric layer, which is mainly used for components electric connection. Dielectric layer is made by insulation material, so it also called insulation layer. Though it is function as insulation, it has good heat transfer capacity. The base copper layer is the support stone for the whole PCB. Copper core PCB is commonly used in LED lighting and other applications where need good heat dissipation.

What is Heavy Copper PCB?

Heavy copper PCB doesn’t have a clear definition in IPC standard, it is a kind of special PCB just like HDI PCB and extra thin PCB. Generally, for copper thickness equal or exceed 3ounces will be default as heavy copper pcb. For those copper thickness ranges from 20~200ounces is classified as extreme heavy copper PCB.

The base substrate of heavy copper PCB can be FR4 material or aluminum, instead of copper base. This is a significant difference between copper pcb and heavy copper pcb. Heavy copper normally used for a various product but not limited to: high power distribution, bas bur, planar transformers, power convertors, and so on. Due to it enables to carry high current and provide high power, people also called it power supply PCB and high-power PCB.

Differences Between Copper PCB and Heavy Copper PCB?

Except the structural composition, there are still some other differences between the copper core circuit board and heavy copper board. Let’s dive into together.

Copper Thickness

Copper core PCBs typically have thinner copper traces, whereas Heavy Copper PCBs have significantly thicker copper layers. If the trace width is certain, increasing the copper thickness is equivalent to increasing the section area of the circuit, so that it can carry more current.

Current-Carrying Capacity

Copper-based circuit boards are suitable for low to medium current applications. In contrast, Heavy Copper PCBs have thicker copper layers, which enables to handle higher currents without overheating. That’s why it is recommended heavy copper circuit board for high power electronics and high-power applications such as electric car.

Heat Dissipation

Actually, both of them are good in heat dissipation capabilities. But due to the copper clad circuit board is made by copper base, while heavy copper printed circuit board uses epoxy resin or aluminum as the base material, copper core PCB is superior to heavy copper PCB in heat dissipation. So, if your application requires better heat transfer but no need to carry higher power, copper core board is the go-to-choice.

Cost Effective

Among the various metal core PCBs, copper core PCB is the most expensive since the copper core itself is expensive, around 6-7 times than the aluminum core PCB.

Heavy copper PCB also is expensive since it has complex manufacturing processes and thick copper layers. But its price mainly depends on how thick copper thickness it needs. So comprehensive consideration, heavy copper pcb is the most cost-effective.

Applications

Copper PCBs are well-suited for smaller consumer electronics, where cost is a significant factor, and heat generation is minimal.

Heavy Copper PCBs are used in power electronics, automotive applications, and industrial equipment, where high current handling and heat management are essential.

Choosing the Right PCB for Your Project

When choosing between Copper Core PCBs and Power Supply PCBs, consider the following factors:

Your project’s power requirements

Thermal management needs

Budget constraints

Durability and expected lifespan

By evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision on which type of PCB is the best fit for your project.

In summary, the choice between Copper PCBs and Heavy Copper PCBs depends on the specific requirements of your electronic project. Copper PCBs are suitable for low to medium current applications with minimal heat generation. On the other hand, Heavy Copper PCBs offer higher current-carrying capacity and superior heat dissipation, making them ideal for high-power applications. Assess your project’s needs carefully to determine which type of PCB will serve you best.

Do You Know Who Is the King Among the Metal Core PCBs?

Saturday, October 14th, 2023

Have you ever encountered these problems: your LED beads overheat, lose brightness, and shorten their lifespan? Have you ever thought of using a better PCB material to solve these problems?

If you are considering this question and your answer is yes, then you must learn about thermal-electric separation copper PCB, the king of Metal Core PCB (MCPCB), which can make your LED lamps achieve unprecedented effects.

What is Metal Core PCB?

It is a type of printed circuit board that uses metal material as the heat dissipation layer, commonly used in LED and other high-power electronic products. There are many types of metal core PCB, among which the most common one is aluminum PCB, which has a thermal conductivity of about 1W, suitable for low-power LED lamps.

However, with the development of high-power electronic products and high-frequency PCBs, aluminum PCBs can no longer meet the requirements of heat dissipation and volume. Therefore, more and more products choose copper PCB, which has a thermal conductivity of up to 400W, 400 times that of aluminum PCB. But ordinary copper PCB also has a drawback, that is, its circuit layer and heat layer are on the same layer, which requires connecting the beads and the heat layer through an insulating thermal conductive material, which will reduce the thermal efficiency. To solve this problem, a more advanced copper PCB structure has emerged, called thermal-electric separation copper PCB or SinkPad PCB.

Introduction to Thermal-electric Separation Copper PCB

The feature of thermal-electric separation copper PCB is that its circuit layer and heat layer are on different layers so that the beads can directly contact the heat layer, achieving zero thermal resistance heat dissipation. This structure can greatly improve the luminous efficiency and lifespan of the beads, and reduce light decay and heating. Thermal-electric separation copper PCB is very suitable for single high-power beads, especially the COB package, which can make the lamp achieve better effects. In addition, thermal-electric separation copper PCB can also be made into different shapes and structures according to different design needs, such as copper protrusions, copper recesses, parallel heat dissipation, etc.

Below is the structure diagram of ordinary copper PCB and copper substrate bump thermoelectric separation as an example to give you a more intuitive understanding of the advantages of thermoelectric separation copper substrate processing technology.

From the ordinary copper PCB diagram on the left, it can be seen that the heat dissipation needs to pass through the insulating and thermally conductive material (purple part in the picture), which is more convenient to process. However, after passing through the insulating and thermally conductive material, the thermal conductivity is not so good. This kind of suitable for low-power LED lights, which is enough.

If the heat dissipation requirements are very large on automotive LED lamp beads or high-frequency PCBs, both normal aluminum PCB and copper core PCB cannot meet the requirements. It is common to use thermoelectric separation of copper substrates. Because the circuit trace and thermal layer are on the different layers, the thermal layer part directly contacts the LED beads (as shown on the right side of the picture above) to achieve the best heat dissipation (zero thermal resistance) effect.

Besides, there are also many various surface treatment options for the thermal electric separation copper PCB, such as OSP, immersion gold, ENIG, immersion silver, silver plating, ENEPIG, etc. It can be carried out according to different needs, and the surface treatment layer and lifespan are reliable.

Who Can Make Thermal-electric Separation Copper PCB for You?

When you are considering to sample or order thermal-electric separation copper PCBs, it is recommended to choose Best Technology. Best team is a professional PCB manufacturer who specializes in PCB manufacturing for over 17 years of experience and provides excellent before and after-sales service. Now, Best Technology highly recommends thermal-electric separation copper PCB for you, and the price is very favorable right now. And we promise that we will make satisfactory thermal-electric separation copper PCB for you with the fastest speed and the highest quality. This is what we are proud of.

If you have any questions or comments about thermal-electric separation copper PCB or more information about our company, please feel free to contact us or e-mail us at sales@bestpcbs.com. We will serve you wholeheartedly.

Do you know the relationship between copper thickness and circuit width & spacing?

Saturday, September 2nd, 2023

We know the precision control and performance of a product are paramount, only know that PCB can be built with a nice function, so, to understand the intricate relationship between copper thickness and circuit width and spacing is pivotal. These two parameters are like the gears of a well-oiled machine, interlocking in ways that significantly influence the printed circuit board‘s functionality, signal integrity, and manufacturability. If the designer does not consider the relationship between these two, the design may need to be modified in subsequent production.

In order to avoiding this information, let’s embark on a deeper exploration of this dynamic relationship to uncover its nuances and implications now,

Frist of all, we need to know some basic information about PCB, like copper thickness, circuit width and spacing.

The Essence of Copper Thickness

Copper, known for its exceptional electrical conductivity, is the lifeblood of any PCB. The copper thickness refers to the amount of copper deposited onto the board’s surface during fabrication. It’s the foundation upon which the traces, the intricate pathways that carry electrical signals, are built. The standard copper thickness is often measured in ounces per square foot (oz/ft²) or micrometers (µm). Common options include 1oz (35µm), 2oz (70µm), and even higher, it depends on customer’s requirement.

Circuit Width and Spacing

Circuit width and spacing, though often overlooked, are integral components that determine a PCB’s performance, integrity, and overall functionality. Circuit width refers to the dimension of the conductive traces, while spacing pertains to the distance between these traces. These seemingly simple dimensions have a profound impact on the PCB’s behavior.

Secondly, Unveiling the Intricate Relationship

The relationship between copper thickness, circuit width, and spacing is a sophisticated interplay of electrical properties, heat dissipation, and signal integrity. Let’s delve deeper into this complex web of interactions:

Current-Carrying Capacity and Copper Thickness: Copper thickness directly influences a trace’s ability to carry current without succumbing to overheating. Thicker copper translates to higher current-carrying capacity and reduced resistive losses. However, the trade-off is that wider traces are necessary to accommodate the increased copper thickness.

Resistance and Circuit Width: Wider traces exhibit lower resistance, which in turn reduces voltage drop and enhances the efficiency of signal transmission. Designers must strike a balance between trace width, copper thickness, and available board space.

Spacing and Unwanted Interactions: As circuit spacing decreases, the probability of unwanted interactions, such as crosstalk and electromagnetic interference, rises. Thicker copper can exacerbate these issues due to its larger cross-sectional area. Maintaining appropriate spacing between traces is pivotal to prevent signal degradation and maintain integrity.

Heat Dissipation and Trace Width: Thicker copper also aids in better heat dissipation, a crucial consideration for power-intensive applications. However, this can necessitate wider traces to manage the thermal load effectively.

Signal Integrity and Crosstalk: Smaller spacing reduces the risk of crosstalk, but it’s a double-edged sword. Thicker copper traces may introduce higher capacitance, altering impedance and potentially impacting signal integrity. This delicate balance requires careful consideration during design.

For now, we have known the relationship between them, how to develop a best design between the circuit width & spacing and copper thickness, which depends on what’s you really want, the huge current or heat management? Following details should be considered if you want to develop the best circuit width & spacing.

Current Requirements: Start by understanding the current requirements of your traces based on the components and operational conditions. Selecting the appropriate copper thickness and trace width ensures the PCB can handle the anticipated loads.

Thermal Management: Thicker copper facilitates heat dissipation, which is advantageous for power-dissipating components. However, remember that it might necessitate wider traces to ensure effective heat transfer.

Manufacturability: While thicker copper can enhance current-carrying capacity and heat dissipation, it might pose manufacturing challenges. Consult with PCB manufacturers to align your design choices with their capabilities.

Signal Integrity Analysis: Utilize simulation tools to analyze signal integrity, especially when dealing with smaller spacing and thicker copper. These tools provide insights into impedance matching, potential crosstalk, and overall performance.

Flexibility VS Rigidity: While thicker copper enhances many aspects, it can impact the PCB’s flexibility, crucial for certain applications. Evaluate the mechanical demands of your project and strike the right balance.

Regarding metal core PCB in Best Technology, the copper thickness and its accordingly circuit width & spacing like below, furthermore, it would be better if you can let me know your copper thickness before checking your drawing, we will give you the best solution before formal production.

Copper thickness	Minimum circuit width	Minimum circuit spacing
0.5-2oz	0.25mm	0.23mm
3oz	0.35mm	0.3mm
4oz	0.4mm	0.38mm

(trace_design_guide_of_MCPCB)

Conclusion: Striking the Optimal Balance

The intricate relationship between copper thickness, circuit width, and spacing in PCB design embodies a delicate equilibrium that significantly influences a design’s performance and functionality. This nuanced interplay directly impacts parameters such as current-carrying capacity, resistance, heat dissipation, and signal integrity.

Achieving the optimal balance between these factors requires a deep understanding of electrical properties, thermal considerations, and signal behavior. Designers must carefully evaluate the specific requirements of their projects and leverage simulation tools to fine-tune their choices. Collaboration with PCB manufacturers ensures alignment with manufacturing capabilities.

The dynamic nature of this relationship underscores the constant evolution of PCB technology. As devices become smaller, faster, and more interconnected, the demand for intricate layouts intensifies. Designers must continuously adapt to new challenges, pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable while adhering to the fundamental principles that govern PCB design.

Enhancing UV LED Performance with MCPCB: Advantages and Innovative Applications

Thursday, August 10th, 2023

In the field of ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LED), the integration of Metal Core Printed Circuit Boards (MCPCB) plays a significant role in improving UV LED performance, thermal management, and overall reliability. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of MCPCB in UV LED applications, highlighting its advantages with concrete data to demonstrate its practicality.

Efficient Heat Dissipation:

MCPCBs excel in efficient heat dissipation, ensuring optimal UV LED performance and longevity. With a metal core typically made of aluminum or copper, MCPCBs possess high thermal conductivity. For instance, MCPCBs have a thermal conductivity coefficient of normally 1.0-3.0 W/mK, it needs to be customized if the thermal conductivity exceeds 3.0W/mk. this exceptional thermal conductivity allows for rapid dissipation of generated heat, preventing heat accumulation and ensuring UV LEDs operate within their optimal temperature range.

2. Enhanced Thermal Conductivity:

MCPCBs contribute to effective heat dissipation through improved thermal conductivity. Studies indicate that MCPCBs can enhance thermal conductivity up to ten times higher than standard FR4 PCBs. Because the stack up of MCPCB is different with PCB, please see below stack up. This enhanced thermal conductivity aids in achieving a uniform temperature distribution across the entire MCPCB, reducing the risks of hotspots and thermal stress on UV LEDs. Consequently, UV LEDs can maintain their performance and reliability even during extended operation.

1oz	Copper layer
1.5mm without copper	Core base

(FR4PCB_stack_up)

3. Reliability in Harsh Environments:

MCPCBs are designed to withstand harsh environments, ensuring reliability in UV LED applications. The metal core of MCPCBs provides higher mechanical strength and resistance to thermal stress. For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of an MCPCB can be matched with UV LEDs, minimizing the risk of mechanical failures caused by thermal mismatch. These features enable MCPCBs to operate reliably even in high-temperature environments or under exposure to ultraviolet radiation, thereby extending the lifespan of UV LED devices.

4. Electrical Isolation:

MCPCBs offer electrical isolation between the metal core and circuit layers, ensuring safe and reliable operation of UV LEDs. The dielectric layer, typically made of materials such as epoxy resin or thermally conductive dielectric (TCF), exhibits high breakdown voltage and insulation resistance. This electrical isolation minimizes the risk of short circuits or electrical interference, protecting UV LEDs and the entire system from potential damage.

5. Performance Optimization:

By incorporating MCPCBs into UV LED technology, manufacturers can optimize the performance of their UV LED devices. The improved heat dissipation and thermal conductivity of MCPCBs enable UV LEDs to operate at maximum efficiency. Research shows that using MCPCBs can reduce LED junction temperatures by up to 20-30°C, improving light output and enhancing overall performance. This optimal performance ensures consistent UV light generation, making MCPCBs an ideal choice for various UV LED applications, including curing, sterilization, and phototherapy.

Conclusion:

The use of MCPCBs in UV LED technology offers practical benefits in heat dissipation, thermal conductivity, reliability, and electrical isolation. Concrete data and research support the effectiveness of MCPCBs in efficient heat management, even in harsh environments, enabling reliable operation of UV LEDs. With enhanced performance provided by MCPCBs, UV LED systems can deliver consistent, efficient, and durable UV light output, expanding the possibilities of UV applications in various industries. The utilization of MCPCBs further solidifies their critical role as a key supporting technology in the UV LED field.

If you are designing a metal core PCB and seeking for a reliable manufacturer, welcome to leave you message or contact us directly.

Understanding Counterbore and Countersunk Holes in PCB Design

Saturday, July 8th, 2023

When we talking about the holes in PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards), may somebody always curious about two special holes: Counterbore hole and Countersunk hole. They are easy to be confused and easy to misunderstanding if you are a layman of PCB. Today, we will introduce the differences between counterbore and countersunk for details, let’s keep reading!

What is a Counterbore Hole?

A counterbore hole is a cylindrical recess on a PCB that has a larger diameter at the top surface and a smaller diameter at the bottom. The purpose of a counterbore hole is to create space for a screw head or a bolt’s flange, allowing it to sit flush with or slightly below the PCB surface. The larger diameter at the top accommodates the head or flange, while the smaller diameter ensures that the fastener’s shaft or body fits snugly.

What is a Countersunk Hole?

On the other hand, a countersunk hole is a conical recess on a PCB that allows the head of a screw or bolt to sit flush with the PCB surface. The shape of a countersunk hole matches the profile of the fastener’s head, creating a seamless and level surface when the screw or bolt is fully inserted. Countersunk holes typically have an angled side, often 82 or 90 degrees, which determines the shape and size of the fastener head that will fit into the recess.

Counterbore VS Countersunk: Geometry

While both counterbore and countersunk holes serve the purpose of accommodating fasteners, their main difference lies in their geometry and the types of fasteners they accommodate.

Counterbore holes have a cylindrical recess with two different diameters, while countersunk holes have a conical recess with a single diameter.

Counterbore holes create a stepped or raised region on the PCB surface, whereas countersunk holes result in a flush or recessed surface.

Counterbore VS Countersunk: Fastener Types

Counterbore holes are primarily used for fasteners with a head or flange, such as bolts or screws that require a solid mounting surface.

Countersunk holes are designed for fasteners with a conical head, such as flathead screws or countersunk bolts, to achieve a flush surface.

Counterbore VS Countersunk: Drill angles

Different sizes and drilling angles of drill bits are offered for producing countersinks, depending on the intended use. These angles can include 120°, 110°, 100°, 90°, 82°, and 60°. However, the most frequently employed drilling angles for countersinking are 82° and 90°. For optimal outcomes, it is essential to align the countersink angle with the tapered angle on the underside of the fastener head. On the other hand, counterbore holes feature parallel sides and do not necessitate tapering.

Counterbore VS Countersunk: Applications

The choice between counterbore and countersunk holes depends on the specific requirements of the PCB design and the components being used.

Counterbore holes find applications in situations where a secure and flush fastening of components or mounting plates is necessary. They are commonly used to fasten connectors, brackets, or PCBs to an enclosure or chassis.

Countersunk holes are often employed when aesthetic considerations are important, as they provide a sleek and level surface. They are frequently used for mounting PCBs to surfaces where a flush finish is desired, such as in consumer electronics or decorative applications.

Counterbore and countersunk holes are important features in PCB design, enabling efficient component mounting and secure fastening. Understanding the differences between these two types of holes allows designers to select the appropriate option based on the specific requirements of their circuit board applications. Whether it’s ensuring a secure connection or achieving a visually pleasing finish, the choice between counterbore and countersunk holes plays a crucial role in the overall functionality and aesthetics of a PCB assembly.

Do You Know How Many Types of Holes in PCB

Tuesday, July 4th, 2023

In the vast realm of engineering and manufacturing, there exists a hidden world of holes, each with its own distinct purpose and position. These holes play a crucial role in facilitating various functions within mechanical and electronic systems. In this blog, we will embark on a journey to explore different types of holes in printed circuit board. So, fasten your seatbelts and let’s delve into the fascinating world of these essential engineering features.

Common Types of Holes in PCB

Upon examining a circuit board, one will discover an array of holes serving specific purposes. These include Via holes, PTH, NPTH, Blind holes, Buried holes, Counterbore holes, Countersunk holes, Location holes, and Fiducial holes. Each hole type fulfills a distinct role and function within the PCB, making it crucial to familiarize oneself with their characteristics to facilitate optimal PCB design.

1. Via holes

Via holes are small openings that connect different layers of a printed circuit board (PCB). They facilitate the seamless flow of signals and power between the layers, enabling efficient circuit design and transmission. Vias can be classified into two types: Plated Through-Holes (PTH) and Non-Plated Through-Holes (NPTH), each serving different functions.

2. PTH (Plated Through-Hole)

Plated Through-Holes (PTH) are vias with conductive material coating the inner walls. PTHs establish electrical connections between different layers of a PCB, allowing the passage of signals and power. They play a crucial role in interconnecting components, facilitating the flow of electrical current, and ensuring the functionality of the circuit.

3. NPTH (Non-Plated Through-Hole)

Non-Plated Through-Holes (NPTH) lack the conductive coating on their inner walls, making them suitable for mechanical purposes only. These holes are used for mechanical support, alignment, or as positioning guides, without establishing any electrical connections. NPTHs provide stability and precision, ensuring proper alignment of components within the circuit board. The mainly different between PTH and NPTH is the copper foil will be plated in the hole wall while NPTH no need to do plate.

4. Blind Holes

Blind holes are partially drilled holes that penetrate only one side of a circuit board. They are primarily employed to connect the outer layer of the board with the inner layer, enabling component mounting on one side while remaining hidden from the other. Blind holes offer versatility and help maximize space in complex circuit board designs.

5. Buried Holes

Buried holes are entirely enclosed within a circuit board, connecting inner layers without extending to the outer layers. These holes are hidden from both sides of the board and serve to establish connections and routes between inner layers. Buried holes allow for denser circuit board designs, reducing the complexity of routing traces and enhancing the overall functionality of the board. They provide a seamless and compact solution without any surface exposure.

6. Counterbore Holes

Counterbore holes are cylindrical recesses created to accommodate the heads of bolts, nuts, or screws. They provide a flat-bottomed cavity that allows the fasteners to sit flush or slightly below the surface of the material. The primary function of counterbore holes is to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of a design by providing a smooth and even appearance. These holes are commonly found in woodworking, metalworking, and engineering applications where a concealed or larger bearing surface is desired.

7. Countersunk Holes

Countersunk holes are conical recesses designed to house the angled heads of screws or fasteners. They are employed to ensure that the screw heads lie flush or slightly below the material surface. Countersunk holes serve both aesthetic and practical purposes, providing a sleek and flawless finish while reducing the risk of snags or protrusions. Their versatility makes them suitable for various applications, from furniture manufacturing to aerospace engineering.

8. Location Holes

Location Holes, also known as Reference Holes or Tooling Holes, serve as key reference points for aligning and positioning components, parts, or fixtures during manufacturing or assembly processes. These holes are strategically placed in a design to ensure precise and consistent alignment, enabling efficient assembly and reducing errors.

9. Fiducial Holes

Fiducial Holes, also referred to as Fiducial Marks or Alignment Marks, are small precision holes or markings placed on a surface or PCB (Printed Circuit Board). These holes serve as visual reference points for vision systems, automated processes, or machine vision cameras.

As we conclude our journey through the fascinating world of holes in engineering, we have gained a deeper understanding of the functions and positions of counterbore holes, countersunk holes, via holes, PTH, NPTH, blind holes, and buried holes. These holes are essential elements in various industries, contributing to the aesthetics, functionality, and efficiency of designs.

After introducing each of them, you should have gained a deeper understanding of their functions, hope this is helpful for you the design holes on your PCB project!!

Exploring the Possibilities of UV LED & Importance of MCPCB

Monday, June 12th, 2023

UV LED technology has opened up a world of possibilities in various industries, revolutionizing applications that require ultraviolet light. From curing adhesives to sterilizing water, UV LEDs have become indispensable in many fields. In this article, we will explore the possibilities of UV LED and discuss the crucial role that Metal Core Printed Circuit Boards (MCPCBs) play in enhancing its performance and reliability.

Introduction to UV LED

UV LED refers to light-emitting diodes that emit ultraviolet light in the range of 100 to 400 nanometers. Unlike traditional UV lamps, UV LEDs offer numerous advantages, including energy efficiency, compact size, and precise control over the emitted wavelength. These characteristics make UV LED technology highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.

Where we can use UV LED?

UV LED lights are finding extensive applications in our daily life, below are some popular fields that it can be apply in.

Healthcare and Medicine

One promising area where UV LED lights are making a significant impact is in the field of disinfection and sterilization. UV-C radiation, emitted by UV LEDs, has been proven to effectively kill or inactivate microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Unlike traditional disinfection methods, UV LED technology is safe, energy-efficient, and chemical-free. It finds applications in healthcare facilities, food processing, water purification, and air sterilization systems, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment. Metal core PCB plays a crucial role in UV-C radiation since MCPCB has good durability and excellent corrosion resistance compared to traditional FR4 PCB. It makes the UV-C radiation performs high performances and long-time lifespan.

Industrial and Manufacturing

Another exciting application of UV LED lights is in advanced manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing and lithography. UV-curable resins and photopolymers can be rapidly cured using UV LED exposure, enabling faster production speeds and higher precision. Additionally, UV LED technology allows for the precise control of light wavelengths, which is crucial in fields like electronics, where specific wavelengths are required for the fabrication of microchips and displays.

Agriculture

UV LED lights are finding their way into horticulture and agriculture. UV-B radiation, emitted by UV LEDs, has been shown to stimulate plant growth, increase yields, and enhance crop quality. By tailoring the light spectrum using UV LEDs, growers can optimize plant development, promote flowering, and even modulate specific plant traits. The efficient heat dissipation of the metal core circuit board in UV-B radiation ensures prolonged functionality without concerns of excessive heat generated during extended operation. This technology has the potential to revolutionize indoor farming and enable year-round crop production in controlled environments.

Environmental Sustainability

UV LED lights play a vital role in environmental sustainability efforts. They are increasingly used for water and air purification systems. UV LED water purifiers effectively deactivate or destroy harmful microorganisms in water, providing safe drinking water without the use of chemicals. Additionally, UV LED air purifiers can eliminate airborne pathogens and allergens, improving indoor air quality. Metal core is a relatively environmentally friendly and healthy material, not only the material itself does not contain volatile substances such as benzene, but also through the solidification of ultraviolet light will form a dense curing film, which can reduce the release of harmful gases in the substrate. So metal core PCB as the substrate for UV LED is a good choice for demand of industry sustainable development.

Importance of MCPCB in UV LED Technology

With the big possibilities of the UV LED, the importance of MCPCB in UV LED technology cannot be overlooked. Thermal management is crucial for UV LEDs, as they generate a significant amount of heat during operation. Without proper heat dissipation, the performance and lifespan of UV LEDs can be compromised.

1. MCPCBs effectively address the thermal management challenges associated with UV LED technology. By efficiently dissipating heat, MCPCBs help prevent overheating, which can lead to reduced lifespan, color shifting, or even LED failure. The use of MCPCBs ensures that UV LEDs operate at their optimal temperature, maximizing their performance, and extending their lifespan.

2. Additionally, MCPCBs contribute to the overall efficiency of UV LED systems. By maintaining lower operating temperatures, MCPCBs minimize the energy losses due to heat. This improved efficiency translates into cost savings and a reduced environmental impact.

3. The last but not least, the reliable and stable construction of MCPCBs also contributes to the longevity and reliability of UV LED systems. With their excellent mechanical strength, MCPCBs protect UV LEDs from physical damage and ensure consistent performance over time.

As the demand for UV LED technology continues to grow, the importance of MCPCB in optimizing its performance and reliability will remain paramount. With ongoing advancements in MCPCB technology, we can expect even more efficient and durable UV LED systems in the future. Best Technology specializes in the manufacturing of MCPCBs. With our state-of-the-art factory and highly skilled engineering team, we can offer you the exceptional one-stop services. If you are currently engaged in a UV LED project and require a dependable supplier, we warmly invite you to reach out to us at your convenience. We are committed to providing reliable solutions for all your UV LED needs. Feel free to contact us anytime.

Archive for the ‘mcpcb’ Category

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