MCPCB LED Design, Prototype, LED MCPCB Manufacturer

March 24th, 2025

LED MCPCB, or Metal Core Printed Circuit Board, plays a crucial role in the performance and longevity of modern LED lighting systems. By efficiently dissipating heat, it ensures that LEDs operate at their best, even in high-power applications. As the demand for more energy-efficient and durable LED solutions grows, LED MCPCB has become an essential component in industries ranging from automotive lighting to consumer electronics. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of LED MCPCBs, the design process, their key advantages.

As a professional LED MCPCB manufacturer, Best Technology specializes in MCPCB LED design solutions. We offer high-quality MCPCB LED prototype, MCPCB LED assembly with innovative LED PCB board designs. Whether you need an LED bulb MCPCB or an MCPCB LED strip, feel free to contact us at sales@bestpcbs.com. We’ll provide you with a competitive LED MCPCB price as quickly as possible. Choosing the right LED MCPCB manufacturer, like Best Technology, is vital for ensuring the optimal performance of your LED systems.

MCPCB LED Design, Prototype, LED MCPCB Manufacturer

What is an MCPCB LED?

LED MCPCB, or Metal Core Printed Circuit Board, is a specialized PCB designed to improve thermal management in LED applications. Unlike standard PCBs, MCPCBs use a metal core, typically aluminum or copper, to efficiently dissipate heat. This design extends LED lifespan, enhances performance, and ensures stable operation even in high-power applications.

LEDs generate a lot of heat, and if it is not managed properly, performance drops, and the lifespan shortens. MCPCBs help solve this issue by transferring heat away from LEDs to prevent overheating. This is why they are used in applications where bright and long-lasting illumination is necessary. From LED bulbs to automotive lighting and streetlights, LED MCPCB boards are essential for efficient performance.

What is the Difference Between FR4 and MCPCB?

To better understand the advantages of MCPCB, let’s compare it with traditional FR4 PCBs. MCPCB VS Regular PCB: What are Differences? The main difference lies in thermal conductivity. FR4 PCBs use fiberglass material with low heat dissipation, making them less suitable for high-power LEDs. MCPCBs, on the other hand, feature metal cores with thermal conductivity ranging from 1.0W/mK to 4.0W/mK, effectively transferring heat away from LEDs. This reduces overheating risks and improves efficiency.

Material Composition: FR4 is made of epoxy and fiberglass, while MCPCB consists of metal (usually aluminum or copper).

Heat Dissipation: MCPCB is far superior in handling heat compared to FR4.

Durability: MCPCB can withstand extreme conditions better than FR4.

Cost: FR4 is cheaper but lacks thermal efficiency.

When designing LED circuits, using MCPCB ensures stable and long-lasting performance, especially in high-power applications.

What Are the Different Types of LED MCPCBs?

There are several types of LED MCPCBs based on design and application needs:

Single-Layer MCPCB: A single conductive layer on a metal core, used in simple circuits like LED bulbs and small lighting fixtures.

Double-Layer MCPCB: For more complex designs, double-layer MCPCBs are often used. Two conductive layers separated by an insulating layer, suitable for more complex designs such as LED drivers and automotive lighting.

Multi-Layer MCPCB: Multiple conductive layers, ideal for high-performance LED applications like medical equipment and industrial lighting.

Flexible MCPCB: Designed with bendable insulating materials for non-traditional shapes, used in wearable tech and curved LED strips.

Each type serves specific applications, and selecting the right one depends on the complexity and power requirements of the LED system.

What Are the Key Steps in LED PCB Design?

Designing an LED MCPCB requires several steps to ensure efficiency and performance:

Define Requirements: Determine electrical and thermal needs based on LED type and power. Once the requirements are clear, the next step is material selection.

Select Materials: Choose between aluminum and copper based on heat dissipation needs.

Create Circuit Schematic: Map out LED placements and connections.

Optimize Layout: Arrange components for efficient thermal performance.

Perform Thermal Analysis: Simulate heat dissipation to identify potential issues.

Develop Prototypes: Test the design under real conditions.

Conduct Testing: Ensure electrical and thermal stability before mass production.

A well-designed LED MCPCB improves efficiency, reduces failures, and ensures the best performance in real-world applications.

How to Remove LED Die on MCPCB?

Removing an LED die from an MCPCB must be done carefully to avoid damage:

Turn Off Power: Disconnect the board from power sources.

Apply Heat: Use a soldering iron or heat gun to soften the adhesive or solder. Once the adhesive or solder is softened, the LED die can be safely removed.

Remove LED Die: Use tweezers to lift the LED gently once loosened.

Clean the Surface: Remove residual solder or adhesive for a clean reinstallation.

This process is necessary when replacing faulty LEDs or upgrading components in an LED MCPCB.

What Are the Advantages of LED MCPCB?

LED MCPCB provides multiple advantages over traditional PCB designs:

Superior Heat Dissipation: Prevents overheating and extends LED life.

Increased Reliability: Withstands high temperatures without performance loss.

Compact and Efficient Design: Supports high-density LED placement.

Stronger Mechanical Support: Metal core enhances durability and stability.

Better Power Efficiency: Reduces energy waste by maintaining optimal LED temperature.

These benefits make MCPCB LED boards suitable for a wide range of applications, particularly those requiring high performance and longevity.

What Are the Applications of LED MCPCB?

LED MCPCBs are widely used in various industries due to their efficiency and reliability:

Automotive Lighting: Used in headlights and signal lights for better durability.

Consumer Electronics: Found in LED TVs, mobile screens, and backlighting.

Aerospace: Essential in aircraft lighting systems requiring high stability.

Medical Equipment: Applied in surgical and diagnostic lighting systems.

Industrial and Street Lighting: High-power LEDs require MCPCBs to function efficiently under extreme conditions.

LED Grow Lights: Used in indoor farming where heat management is essential.

As LED technology continues to advance, the demand for high-quality MCPCBs will only grow.

Why Should You Choose Best Technology as Your LED MCPCB Manufacturer?

Best Technology stands out as a trusted LED MCPCB manufacturer, delivering high-quality solutions with advanced technology and exceptional service. Here’s why we are the right choice for your LED MCPCB needs:

1. Over 18 Years of Industry Expertise

With nearly two decades of experience, Best Technology has been providing top-quality MCPCBs for various industries. Our team includes skilled R&D professionals and engineers with over 10 years of expertise, ensuring technical excellence. Backed by a strong management team, we respond to customer inquiries within 12 hours, no matter where you are, and always ensure on-time delivery.

2. Comprehensive Customization Options

Equipped with in-house core technology, including a thermal conductivity value tester and laminator, we can manufacture MCPCBs with high thermal efficiency and specialized parameters. Our ability to produce custom designs quickly allows us to meet the unique requirements of different applications.

3. Strict Quality Control Standards

Quality is at the heart of everything we do. Our engineers, each with over a decade of experience, ensure that every product meets the highest industry standards. We comply with UL, REACH, RoHS, ISO9001, ISO13485, IATF16949, and AS9100D certifications. Our goal is to deliver defect-free products that fully align with customer specifications, guaranteeing exceptional quality in every part we manufacture.

4. State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facilities

Our facility is equipped with advanced computer-controlled auto-routing and V-cutting machines, enabling precise and efficient production. We specialize in high thermal conductivity MCPCBs (up to 3W/mK), heavy copper boards (up to 10 ounces), ultra-thin MCPCBs (0.3mm), and COB PCBs. Additionally, we are one of only three manufacturers in mainland China producing metal core PCB thermal dielectric raw materials, setting us apart in the industry.

By choosing Best Technology, you gain a reliable partner dedicated to delivering high-performance LED MCPCB solutions that meet and exceed industry standards.

In conclusion, LED MCPCB plays a crucial role in modern LED applications, enhancing performance through superior heat dissipation. Understanding the different types, design steps, and applications helps in making the right choices for various industries. Choosing a trusted manufacturer like Best Technology guarantees high-quality LED MCPCB solutions tailored to specific needs.

Best Technology implement strict quality control at every stage, from LED MCPCB raw materials to the LED MCPCB making machine and LED MCPCB testing machine. If you need the MCPCB LED 9W price or have any other inquiries, feel free to contact us at sales@bestpcbs.com. We are committed to fast responses, efficient manufacturing, and consistently delivering high-quality products. Best Technology will be your reliable partner in China.

Tags: LED MCPCB, LED MCPCB Manufacturer, MCPCB LED assembly, MCPCB LED Design, MCPCB LED prototype
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LED PCB Board Design, LED PCB Board Manufacturer

March 24th, 2025

Looking for a reliable LED PCB board manufacturer? Learn about LED PCB board design, manufacturing process, and how to reduce costs effectively in this blog.

Best technology, a LED PCB board manufacturer, we focus on LED PCB Board design and manufacturing for 18 years. We provide one-stop PCB solutions and PCBA service for LED PCB board to achieve fast delivery. we can provide DFM analysis for led board design, which can predict production issues in advance and reduce production costs a lot.‌ Then we have obtained ISO 9001, RoHS and UL We have obtained ISO 9001, RoHS and UL certification, so we can provide you high quality PCB products If you’re interested in our service, welcome to contact us sales@bestpcbs.com. ‌

What Is LED PCB Board?

LED PCB board is a type of printed circuit board specifically designed to support and power light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These boards use materials with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, to efficiently dissipate heat generated by LEDs. LED PCBs are widely used in applications like automotive lighting, display screens, medical devices, and general illumination systems.

What Are the Advantages of LED PCB Board?

Excellent heat dissipation: The aluminum substrate dissipates heat quickly through thermal conductive media, protecting components from high temperatures.
High energy efficiency: LED light sources consume 80% less power than traditional incandescent bulbs and have a lifespan of over 20,000 hours.
Strong reliability: Resistant to high temperatures, humidity, and impact, suitable for harsh environments.
Flexible design: Customizable in size, shape, and circuit layout, adaptable to different application scenarios.
Environmental friendliness: Aluminum materials are recyclable, reducing resource waste and environmental pollution.

How to Design LED PCB Board?

Here’re steps for LED PCB board design:

1. Circuit design

Determine the power supply type: constant voltage (with current limiting resistor) or constant current (dedicated driver chip).
Calculate the total current: single LED current × quantity, ensure that the power margin is ≥20%.

2. Wiring rules:

Main current path line width ≥1.5mm (1A current corresponds to 0.5mm width).
Signal line width ≥0.2mm, spacing ≥0.3mm.
Add protection circuit: TVS surge protection, reverse connection protection diode.

3. ‌Layout optimization‌

LED spacing: evenly distributed according to the light-emitting angle to avoid dark areas.
High-heat area: reserve heat dissipation copper foil around high-power LEDs (copper plating area ≥2 times the LED size).
Partition isolation: high-voltage and low-voltage circuits are placed separately, and high-frequency signal lines are short and straight.

‌4. Heat dissipation design

A heat sink (thickness ≥3mm) is attached to the back of the aluminum substrate, and thermal grease is applied.
Add heat dissipation holes: hole diameter 0.5-1mm, spacing ≤5mm.
High-temperature area: install temperature sensor or thermistor.

5. PCB prototyping verification

Visual inspection: whether the pad size and aperture match the LED pin;
Power-on test: step-by-step voltage boost (0V→rated voltage), monitor current and temperature rise.
Aging test: run at full load for 24 hours to confirm that there is no light decay or solder joint virtual connection.

Then next step you can find move your Gerber file to production.

What Is LED PCB Manufacturing Process?

Here are LED PCB manufacturing processes:

Cutting substrates ‌: Cut aluminum substrates/FR-4 substrates according to the design size.
‌Photoresist coating ‌: Evenly cover the surface of the substrate with a photosensitive resist layer.
‌Exposure and development ‌: Irradiate the circuit pattern with ultraviolet light to wash away the uncured parts.
‌Etching copper layer ‌: Use chemical liquid to remove excess copper foil to form a conductive circuit.
‌Drilling: Mechanically drill LED pin holes, heat dissipation holes and fixing holes.
‌Surface treatment ‌: OSP (anti-oxidation) or tin spraying (anti-oxidation, easy to solder).
‌SMT patch ‌: Machine mounting of LED lamp beads, resistors, driver chips and other components.
‌Reflow soldering ‌: High-temperature furnace melts solder and fixes components.
Electrical test & Functional test: Check short circuit, open circuit, and current consistency; Light up the LED to verify brightness, color temperature, and heat dissipation performance.
‌Finished product assembly ‌: Add a heat sink, lens or shell, and package for shipment.

LED PCB Board Manufacturer

As a LED PCB Board Manufacturer, Best Technology can provide the following service:

Rich Production Experience: 18 years’ experience in multi-layer LED PCB board design and production‌ and can handle production issues flexibly.
‌Qualification Certification‌& DFM Analysis‌: Obtained ISO 9001, UL certification or RoHS compliance.
One-Stop PCB solution and PCBA service: Comprehensive services from design to final assembly.
Quick Turnaround Time& Affordable Price: Offer rapid delivery options ranging from 24 hours to 3 days at affordable price, accommodating urgent project needs.
Excellent Customer Service& Free Technical Support: Provide customers with exclusive pre-sales and after-sales services and free technical support.
High-Quality Standards: Adheres to stringent quality standards, significantly reducing the need for reworks and ensuring reliable products.

If you want to know more about us, welcome to leave a message below this blog.

How to Choose a LED PCB Board Manufacturer?

Here are tips about how to choose a LED PCB board manufacturer:

Experience in LED PCB manufacturing for quality assurance.
Certifications (ISO, UL, RoHS) for safety and reliability.
One-stop PCB solution and PCBA service
Fast delivery and competitive price
Strong customer support for technical assistance.

How Much does LED PCB Cost?

1. Material Cost

FR4 (Standard PCB): Around $0.50–$5 per board.
Aluminum (Better heat dissipation): Around $1–$10 per board.
Copper (High-performance applications): Around $5–$50 per board.
Ceramic (Extreme heat resistance): Around $10–$100 per board.

2. Layers & Thickness

Single-layer: Around $0.50–$10.
Double-layer: Around $1–$20.
Multilayer: Around $5–$100+.
Thicker copper (better heat dissipation) increases cost.

3. Order Quantity

Small orders (1–10 pcs): Around $5–$50 per piece.
Bulk orders (1000+ pcs): Around $0.50–$10 per piece.

4. Assembly Costs

Manual assembly: Around $0.05–$0.50 per LED.
Automated SMT assembly: Around $0.01–$0.20 per LED.

5. Final Estimate

Basic LED PCB: Around$1–$5 per board.
Aluminum LED PCB: Around $3–$20 per board.
High-end Ceramic LED PCB: Around $10–$100+ per board.

Do you want to get an accurate quote? If you want to get an accurate quote for your case, please feel free to contact Best Technology.

How Can I Make LED PCB Cheaper?

Here are some methods about how can you make LED PCB board cheaper:

‌Material optimization

‌Board selection‌: Use FR-4 substrate for conventional scenarios, and avoid unnecessary aluminum substrate/ceramic substrate.
‌Copper thickness and ink‌: Copper thickness ≤1oz for non-high-power scenarios, use ordinary green ink, and avoid special colors (blue oil/white oil).

Design optimization

‌Number of layers and wiring‌: Single/double-sided boards are preferred to reduce the number of layers; line width and line spacing ≥5/5mil to avoid fine line price increase.
‌Through holes and processes‌: Standard aperture ≥0.3mm to reduce the cost of micro holes; avoid special processes such as blind buried holes and half holes.

Simplification of production process

‌Surface treatment‌: Use tin spraying (lead-free) or OSP for conventional scenarios to avoid immersion gold/gold plating.
‌Processing standard‌: Use conventional testing (non-military standard/IPC3) to reduce the cost of pass rate loss.

Choose Reliable supplier collaboration

‌DFM analysis‌: choose manufacturers that support design optimization to reduce rework risks.
Board matching‌: flexibly adjust the design according to the manufacturer’s inventory boards (such as TG130/150) to reduce the cost of stock preparation

In conclusion, selecting the right LED PCB board manufacturer is very important for achieving high-quality lighting solutions. Understanding the design, manufacturing process, and cost factors can help in making informed decisions. Whether you need a small batch or large-scale production, working with an experienced LED PCB supplier ensures reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

Tags: led pcb board
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2 Layer Aluminum PCB, Aluminum Backed PCB 2 Layer Manufacturer

March 21st, 2025

What is a 2 Layer Aluminum PCB?

A 2 layer aluminum PCB is a high-performance metal core PCB (MCPCB) designed for applications where heat dissipation and mechanical strength are critical. Unlike FR4-based PCBs, which rely on fiberglass as the core, aluminum PCBs use an aluminum alloy base to improve heat transfer and enhance mechanical support.

In a 2-layer aluminum PCB, two copper layers are stacked on top of a dielectric layer, which is then bonded to the aluminum substrate. Different with double sided aluminum PCB, the two copper trace layers of 2 layer aluminum PCB are on the one side, there is only one side enable to mount components.

Key Features of a 2-Layer Aluminum PCB:

Aluminum core for structural support & stable dimensions
Two copper layers for improved conductivity
Dielectric layers for electrical insulation
Efficient heat dissipation to prevent overheating

What Are the Layers of a 2 Layer Aluminum PCB?

A 2 layer aluminum PCB is constructed with the following layers:

Copper layer 1 (top layer) – The top conductive layer, where surface-mount components are placed.
FR4 material – Provides electrical insulation while allowing heat dissipation to the next layer.
Copper layer 2 (bottom layer) – The second conductive layer, allowing for more complex routing compared to single-layer designs.
Dielectric layer (thermal conductivity layer) – Filled with dielectric material, aiming to further insulates the second copper layer from the aluminum core.
Aluminum Base – A metal core that improves heat dissipation and mechanical durability. Commonly made of 6061, 5052, or 1060-grade aluminum

Additional layers, such as a solder mask and silkscreen, are often applied onto the top copper layer for protection and labeling.

4 vs 2 Layer Aluminum PCB Stack up

A 4-layer aluminum PCB adds more conductive layers to support higher circuit complexity, but it also increases manufacturing costs and thickness. They have different stack ups, but the layers construction is the same, see the stack ups as following:

Advantages & Disadvantages of Aluminum PCB

Advantages:

✅ Excellent Heat Dissipation – Aluminum conducts heat 8–9 times better than FR4, reducing thermal stress and preventing higher thermal damage to the components.

✅ Better Mechanical Strength – Due to its metal base, it is more durable than traditional PCBs, resistant to bending and cracking.

✅ Higher Circuit Density – Two stacked copper layers allow for more intricate circuit designs.

✅ Reduced PCB Size and Money Saving – Since heat dissipation is built-in, external heat sinks are often not needed, reducing the overall circuit footprint.

✅ Lower Thermal Expansion – Aluminum base has stable dimension and lower thermal expansion, prevents warping or deformation under high temperatures.

✅ Lightweight – Lighter than copper-based PCBs, it is suitable for those weight sensitive projects, such as automotives.

✅ Eco-Friendly – Aluminum is recyclable, making it a greener choice.

Disadvantages:

❌ Higher Cost – More expensive than FR4 PCBs due to complex manufacturing.

❌ Limited Multilayer Options – Aluminum PCBs typically do not exceed 4 layers, unlike FR4, which can have up to 40 layers.

What is the Difference Between FR4 and Aluminum PCB?

When our sales talking with customers, there is always be mentioned that what are the differences between normal FR4 pcb and aluminum PCB? Most of them in the design consultation stage are not sure which circuit board is more suitable for their needs. Today, to give more engineers a clear understanding, Best Team listing the different characteristics and parameters between them, hope it is easy to make you sense.

Feature	FR4 PCB	Aluminum PCB
Core Material	Fiberglass (FR4)	Aluminum Metal Base
Thermal Conductivity	0.3 – 0.4 W/m·K	1.0 – 3.0 W/m·K
Heat Dissipation	Requires external heat sinks	Direct heat dissipation
Mechanical Strength	Moderate	High (resistant to bending)
Weight	Lightweight	Slightly heavier, but lighter than copper-based PCB
Electrical Insulation	High	Lower (requires dielectric layer)
Manufacturing Cost (under the same design)	Lower	Higher
Maximum Layers	Up to 100 layers	Typically 1 – 4 layers
Flexibility	Can be rigid or flexible	Can be rigid and semi-flexible (use special technique)
Applications	Consumer electronics, computing…	Mainly in LEDl lightings
Durability	Less resistant to thermal expansion	High thermal stability

How Thick is the Dielectric Layer of an 2 Layer Aluminum PCB?

As we know, a thinner dielectric layer offers better heat transfer, but lower insulation resistance. Normally, the dielectric layer used in a 2-layer aluminum PCB typically ranges between 75µm to 200µm. Each has its different thermal conductivity, choosing the right thickness depends on current requirements and operating conditions.

Dielectric Thickness (mm)	Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K)	Common Application
0.075 mm (75µm)	1.0 – 1.5	Low-power circuits
0.1 mm (100µm)	2.0 – 3.0	LED lighting, power modules
0.15 mm (150µm)	3.0 – 5.0	High-power applications

How to Make a 2 Layer Aluminum PCB?

The manufacturing process of a 2 layer aluminum PCB is different from standard FR4 PCBs due to the presence of a metal core. The following steps detail the fabrication process, show how Best Technology manufacture the 2 layer aluminum PCB:

1. Material Selection

Choosing high-quality materials is the foundation of a reliable 2 layer aluminum PCB.

Aluminum Core: Typically 6061, 5052, or 1060-grade aluminum, offering high thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.
Copper Foil: 1 oz to 4 oz copper thickness, depending on current-carrying requirements.
Dielectric Layer: 75um-200um, depends on the project demand.

2. Manufacture a Double Sided FR4 PCB

Manufacture a double sided FR4 PCB according to the files. Both top and bottom copper traces are plated into the required thickness.

3. Laminate the Dielectric Layer

A dielectric layer is added between the aluminum base and the FR4 PCB, then laminate them into a whole product. The thickness of this layer varies from 0.075 mm to 0.15 mm, depending on the thermal performance required.

4. Circuit Patterning (Imaging & Etching)

A photosensitive dry film is applied to define circuit traces.
UV exposure and development create the desired circuit pattern.
An etching process removes unnecessary copper, leaving behind precise circuit traces.

5. Drilling & Plating

Precision drilling creates vias and mounting holes.
A plating process is used to form electrically conductive vias, connecting the top and bottom copper layers.
The aluminum base is not conductive, so plated through-holes (PTHs) require special insulation to prevent electrical shorts.

6. Solder Mask & Silkscreen

A protective solder mask is applied to prevent oxidation and improve insulation.
Silkscreen printing is added for component labeling and identification.

7. Surface Finish Application

The surface finish ensures solderability and prevents oxidation. Common options include:

HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling) – Cost-effective but not ideal for fine-pitch components.
ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) – Provides a smooth, corrosion-resistant surface.
OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) – Environmentally friendly and cost-efficient.

8. Testing & Quality Inspection

Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) verifies circuit accuracy.
Electrical testing ensures there are no open circuits or shorts.
Thermal testing checks heat dissipation performance.

Once the PCB passes inspection, it is ready for component assembly or shipping to customers. Here is a manufacturing process video of aluminum, hope this is easy for you to understand.

Differences Between 6061, 5052, and 1060 Aluminum Alloy

When manufacturing a 2 layer aluminum PCB, selecting the right aluminum alloy is essential for achieving the desired thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance. The three most common aluminum alloys used in PCBs are 6061, 5052, and 1060, each offering different properties suitable for various applications.

Property	6061 Aluminum	5052 Aluminum	1060 Aluminum
Composition	Al-Mg-Si alloy	Al-Mg alloy	High-purity aluminum (≥99.6%)
Thermal Conductivity	150 – 170 W/m·K	138 – 147 W/m·K	230 – 237 W/m·K
Mechanical Strength	High (275 – 310 MPa tensile strength)	Moderate (190 – 240 MPa tensile strength)	Low (60 – 100 MPa tensile strength)
Corrosion Resistance	Moderate	High (excellent saltwater resistance)	Low (prone to corrosion)
Workability	Good machinability, harder to bend	Easy to form and bend	Very soft, easy to process
Cost	Higher	Moderate	Lower

For high-power applications (e.g., power amplifiers, automotive circuits): 6061 is ideal due to its strength.
For outdoor or humid environments (e.g., industrial lighting, marine electronics): 5052 offers the best balance.
For cost-effective, high-thermal applications (e.g., LED lighting, heat-sensitive electronics): 1060 is the best choice.

At Best Technology, we have various aluminum base in our storage, whatever you want to use 6061, 5052 or 1060, we can meet your requirements. As a reliable 2-4 layer metal core pcb (mcpcb) aluminum manufacturer, we specialize in custom aluminum-backed PCBs, ensuring high quality, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround times. Whether you need prototyping or mass production, our engineering team is ready to assist you. Contact us right now to get your quotation!

Tags: 2 layer aluminum pcb, 2-4 layer metal core pcb mcpcb aluminum
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LED Bulb PCB Design, Prototype & LED Bulb PCB Manufacturer

March 20th, 2025

LED Bulb PCB integrates power supply and heat dissipation to ensure stable and efficient operation. Would you like to know more about it? Let’s learn more about advantages, types, materials and design steps of LED Bulb PCB from this blog.

At Best technology, we focus on high quality LED Bulb PCB design, prototype and manufacturing over 18 years. We adopt lead-free and halogen-free material boards and obtain RoHS environmental certification to achieve no pollution to the environment. And we can provide one-stop PCB solutions services from signal integrity optimization, thermal management simulation to dynamic heat dissipation of aluminum substrates. And we have professional engineer team provides free technical support for board design and brightness scheme adjustment, which can help you reduce BOM costs a lot. If you’re interested in our service, please feel free to contact us sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is LED Bulb PCB?

LED bulb PCB is a specialized circuit board designed to power and control light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in lighting applications. It acts as the backbone, providing electrical connections, heat dissipation, and mechanical support for LED components. Unlike traditional bulbs, LED PCBs ensure energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and compact designs.

What Are the Advantages of LED Bulb PCB?

High Energy Efficiency‌ – Optimizes power use for brighter light with lower energy consumption.
‌Thermal Management‌ – Aluminum or ceramic substrates prevent overheating.
‌Compact Design‌ – Fits seamlessly into slim LED bulb housings.
‌Long Lifespan‌ – Robust materials ensure 50,000+ hours of operation.
‌Customization‌ – Flexible layouts for unique lighting requirements.

LED Bulb PCB Board

Application of LED PCB Board

Household lighting-such as ceiling lamp, desk lamp.
Commercial lighting-High-brightness lighting in shopping malls, offices, and other scenarios.
Automotive lighting-Vehicle light sources such as headlights and brake lights.
Industrial equipment indicators-Device status indicator light, operation panel backlight
Smart lighting systems-Home/City Intelligent Lighting System.

Application of LED Bulb PCB

What Are the Types of LED PCB Board?

‌Aluminum PCB‌ – Superior heat dissipation for high-power LEDs.
FR4 PCB-Suitable for Medium and low power LED bulbs.
‌Flexible PCB‌ – Bendable designs for compact or curved fixtures.
‌Ceramic PCB‌ – Extreme thermal stability for industrial us.

What Are the Types of LED Bulb PCB?

LED Bulb PCB Manufacturer

Choosing the right LED bulb PCB manufacturer is crucial for quality and performance. Best Technology, with over 18 years of experience, specializes in manufacturing high-quality LED PCBs, ensuring superior thermal management, durability, and precision in design. Our advanced production techniques guarantee reliable PCBs for various LED applications, making us a trusted partner for LED lighting solutions. Here are more information about us:

Adopt lead-free and halogen-free raw materials with PCB and obtain RoHS and UL certificates.
A professional team provides free technical support for circuit and brightness scheme adjustments, helping you save lots of material costs.
Offer one-stop PCB solutions and PCBA service, we can help you purchase all the components you want to purchase.
Support rapid prototyping with low MOQ.

If you want to move your design into reality, Best technology will meet your all customized requirements.

What Are the Raw Materials of LED Bulb PCB Board?

Here are LED Bulb PCB raw materials:

FR4 epoxy resin substrate
Aluminum substrate
Ceramic substrate
Electrolytic copper foil
Gold/nickel plating
Prepreg (PP sheet)
Solder mask ink (green/white)
Fiberglass cloth (E-fiberglass)
Polyimide film(PI)
Solder (tin-lead/lead-free alloy)
Silk screen ink

How to Design LED Bulb PCB Board?

Here are main steps of LED bulb PCB design:

‌Step 1: Circuit Design

‌Schematic Creation‌: Use KiCad or Altium Designer to draft the circuit. Include LEDs, resistors, driver ICs (e.g., LM2596S), and power input ports.
‌Component Selection‌: Choose SMD or COB, resistor values for current limiting, and thermal vias for high-power LEDs.

‌Step 2: PCB Layout Design‌

Component Placement‌:

Arrange LEDs evenly for uniform illumination.
Position driver ICs and resistors close to LEDs to reduce trace length.

Thermal Design‌:

Use aluminum substrates or copper pours for heat dissipation.
Add thermal vias under LED pads.

‌Trace Routing‌:

Avoid sharp angles (use 45° bends) to minimize EMI.
Ensure trace width matches current requirements (e.g., 20–30 mils for 1A).

‌Step 3: PCB Fabrication

‌DIY Method‌:

Print circuit on glossy paper and transfer to copper-clad board via heat press.
Etch with ferric chloride, drill holes, and clean the board.

‌Professional Fabrication‌:

Submit Gerber files to manufacturers(such as Best Technology.)
Select substrate material (FR4 for low power, aluminum for high power).

‌Step 4: Component Assembly‌

‌SMD Soldering‌: Apply solder paste, place components with tweezers, and reflow with a hot-air gun.
‌Through-Hole Soldering‌: Manually solder connectors and large components.
‌Post-Assembly‌: Clean flux residues and inspect for cold joints.

‌Step 5: ‌Electrical Checks‌&‌Operational Testing‌:

Use a multimeter to verify voltage/current at key nodes (e.g., LED terminals).
Test continuity to detect short circuits.
Power the circuit and check LED brightness uniformity.
Monitor temperature with an IR thermometer; ensure no overheating (>80°C).

If you want to do LED Bulb PCB prototype to verify your design, welcome to contact Best Technology.( The email is at the beginning of this blog.)

FAQ of LED Bulb PCB Board

1. What is the ideal thickness for an LED PCB?
The ideal thickness varies based on the design, but commonly ranges from 1.0mm to 1.6mm for standard LED applications.

2. How does thermal management affect LED PCB performance?
Efficient thermal management prevents overheating, extends the LED’s lifespan, and maintains consistent light output.

3. Can LED PCBs be waterproof?
Yes, LED PCBs can be coated with protective layers such as conformal coating or encapsulation to achieve waterproofing.

4. What is the difference between single-layer and multi-layer LED PCBs?
Single-layer PCBs are cost-effective and used for basic LED bulbs, while multi-layer PCBs allow for complex circuits and better heat dissipation in high-power applications.

5. How do I test an LED bulb PCB before mass production?
Testing methods include electrical continuity testing, thermal testing, and functional performance evaluation to ensure reliability.‌

In conclusion, through this blog, we can learn about meaning, advantages, types and design steps of LED Bulb PCB Board. If you have any other issues about LED bulb PCB board, welcome to leave a message below this blog. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Tags: LED Bulb PCB, led bulb pcb board
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

Aluminum PCB for LED, Aluminum PCB For LED Light

March 20th, 2025

Are you looking for the best aluminum PCB for LED? Let’s Learn about its advantages, types , materials, design process and how to find a reliable PCB supplier.

At Best Technology, we focus on one stop aluminum PCB solution for LED, including aluminum LED PCB design, prototype and manufacturing. We have a stable supply chain and automated production lines that can achieve 72 hours fast delivery. And we have professional engineer teams who can provide you DFM analysis and free technical support to save production cost a lot. Feel free to contact us sales@bestpcbs.com if you have any request for aluminum LED PCB.

What is Aluminum PCB For LED?

Aluminum PCB for LED is a metal-based printed circuit board specifically designed for LED lighting. It achieves efficient heat dissipation by combining an aluminum substrate with insulating layers, ensuring the stable operation of high-power LED fixtures and extending their lifespan.

What Are the Advantages of Aluminum PCB For LED?

Here are main advantages of aluminum PCB for LED:

Efficient heat dissipation: quickly export the heat generated by the LED, reduce the operating temperature and extend the service life.
‌High current carrying capacity: carry higher current than traditional PCB at the same thickness, suitable for high-power scenarios.
‌Lightweight: lightweight aluminum material, simplifying installation and reducing the overall weight of the equipment.
‌Process compatibility: adapt to SMT mounting technology to simplify mass production process
‌High mechanical strength: impact and vibration resistance, adaptable to harsh working environments.
‌Electromagnetic shielding: effectively reduce electromagnetic interference and improve circuit stability.
‌High voltage resistance: support voltage above 3000V to ensure safe operation.
‌Environmentally friendly and recyclable: aluminum material is non-toxic and recyclable, meeting environmental standards.

Aluminum PCB For LED

Application of Aluminum PCB For LED

Here are application of aluminum PCB for LED:

LED bulbs-home and commercial lighting fixtures to prevent overheating and burning.
Automotive lighting-headlights, brake lights, fog lights, high temperature resistance and vibration resistance.
Advertising display screen-outdoor LED large screen, resistant to temperature changes and rain erosion.
Industrial lighting-factory high-brightness searchlights, 24-hour stable operation.
Medical equipment lights-surgical lights, detector light sources, fast heat dissipation to ensure safety.
Traffic lights-traffic lights, street lights, adapt to extreme weather.
Solar lights-garden lights, landscape lights, resistant to outdoor environment aging.
Stage lighting– high-power spotlights.
Household appliances– smart lamps, refrigerator backlight, thin and easy to install.

What Are the Types of Aluminum PCB For LED Light?

The aluminum PCB For LED light is divided into these types:

Fluorescent lamp aluminum substrate: used for fluorescent lamps and other lighting equipment.
‌Street lamp aluminum substrate: used for street lamps and other outdoor lighting equipment.
‌Downlight aluminum substrate: used for downlights and other embedded lighting equipment.
‌Wall lamp aluminum substrate: used for wall lamps and other wall lighting equipment.
‌Spotlight aluminum substrate: used for spotlights and other directional lighting equipment.

Aluminum PCB For LED Light

Aluminum PCB Board For LED Manufacturer

When uneven heat dissipation of LEDs causes accelerated light decay and a halved lifespan – what you lack is not just an aluminum substrate, but a full supply chain service from design to mass production! Best Technology as an aluminum PCB board for LED manufacturer over 18 years who can provide you one-stop PCB solutions from design, prototype and production. Here are some information about our company:

Made of high-quality aluminum raw materials, it has high thermal conductivity, fast heat dissipation, and extends the life of LEDs.
With a stable supply chain and automated production lines, it can quickly respond to customer needs and achieve fast delivery (samples can be delivered in 72 hours at the fastest)
Support DFM analysis, it can predict problems that may be encountered in the production process in advance during the design stage to reduce production costs a lot.
Support low MOQ diversified customization services to create exclusive customization
Provide free technical support, 24-hour professional engineer team will answer your questions online one-on-one.

If you’re interested in our services, welcome to leave a message below this blog.

What Are the Materials of Aluminum PCB Board For LED?

Here are the materials of aluminum PCB board for LED:

Substrate Layer–Aluminum(such as 6061 Aluminum alloy)
Insulation layer–FR4 for normal thermal conductivity; ceramic powder mixture (such as alumina), silicone or special polymer for high thermal conductivity
Conductive layer–Copper foil (1oz~6oz thickness), used for circuit routing.
Surface treatment layer– OSP, HASL, silver/gold plating
Additional coating–White solder mask ink (high reflection), black solder mask (anti-light interference)

Aluminum PCB Board For LED

How to Design Aluminum PCB Board For LED?

Aluminum PCB for LED Design is mainly divided into five steps:

‌1. Basic design

‌Select single/double-sided board‌: single-sided board (aluminum base + insulation layer + copper foil) for simple circuits, double-sided board for complex wiring.
‌Aluminum base thickness‌: conventional 1.0~1.5mm, high power 2.0~3.0mm (such as 5052/6061 aluminum).

‌2. Circuit layout‌

‌LED arrangement‌: evenly distributed, spacing ≥3mm (to prevent heat concentration).
‌Line width calculation‌: Formula: Line width (mm) = current (A) / (copper thickness × 0.038).
‌Wiring rules‌: Low voltage line spacing ≥ 0.2mm, high voltage (>50V) ≥ 1.0mm; Sharp angle routing is prohibited (arcs or 45° fold lines are preferred).

‌3. Pad design

‌Size‌: 0.2~0.5mm larger than the LED pin (compatible with soldering process).
‌Surface treatment‌: OSP is selected for general use, and immersion gold/silver plating is used for high reliability.

‌4. Thermal management

‌Thermal conduction path‌: The aluminum base directly contacts the heat sink (insulating gasket is prohibited).
‌Thermal resistance target‌: Total thermal resistance <5℃/W (high power requires <3℃/W).
‌Verification method‌: Infrared thermal imager measures temperature rise (full load T<30℃).

‌5. Design output

‌Gerber file‌: Insulation layer thickness, copper foil parameters, and Mark points are marked.
‌DFM check‌: Line width error <±10%, pad and aluminum base edge >1mm.

FAQ of Aluminum PCB For LED

Q1: Why use aluminum PCB instead of FR4 for LED applications?
Aluminum PCBs offer superior heat dissipation, improving LED efficiency and longevity compared to FR4.

Q2: What is the typical thickness of an aluminum PCB for LED?
The standard thickness ranges from 1.0mm to 3.0mm, depending on application requirements.

Q3: Can aluminum PCBs be customized for different LED designs?
Yes, manufacturers like Best Technology provide custom solutions for various LED applications.

Q4: How does aluminum PCB improve LED lifespan?
Efficient heat dissipation reduces LED degradation, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Q5: What surface finishes are recommended for aluminum PCB?
ENIG, HASL, and OSP are common surface finishes, each offering different benefits in terms of durability and solderability.

In conclusion, that’s all about aluminum PCB for LED. If you want to learn more, welcome to leave a message below this blog. Looking forward to your message!

Tags: aluminium pcb board for led, aluminum pcb for led, aluminum pcb for led light
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

RGB LED PCB Design, Prototype&RGB LED PCB Manufacturer

March 18th, 2025

RGB LED PCB is an important part in modern lightening system, It can be seen everywhere in our lives, such as the breathing light strips of smart homes, dynamic special effects of stage lighting and so on. Would you like to get more information about RGB LED PCB? In this blog, let’s explore information about feature overview of RGB LED PCB , and how to design, how to select a PCB supplier together.

Best technology specialize in high quality RGB LED PCB design, prototype and manufacturing over 18 years. We provide one-stop PCB solutions services from signal integrity optimization, thermal management simulation to dynamic heat dissipation of aluminum substrates. And we support PWM precise dimming protocol, integrated EMC protection and impedance matching design. It can ensure 24-bit color restoration accuracy. We can meet the strict demands of stage lighting, architectural lighting, and smart home fields for full-color LED PCBs, helping you seamlessly transition from optical design to mass production. If you’re interested in our service, welcome to contact us at sales@bestpcbs.com.

What Is RGB LED PCB?

RGB LED PCB is a type of printed circuit board (PCB) that integrates Red, Green, and Blue LEDs. It achieves a wide variety of color effects by mixing the light of these three colors (the primary colors of light) and is commonly used in lighting, decoration, and display devices.

What Are the Advantages of RGB LED PCB Board?

Excellent heat dissipation performance– Adopting aluminum substrate design and suitable for high-power RGB LED applications
‌Precise color control and diversity-supports dynamic gradient and breathing light and can mix a million of colors.
‌High integration and design flexibility-‌ integrate multiple RGB LEDs, driver chips and control circuits and support modular design
‌Energy saving and environmental protection– 80% energy saving compared to traditional light sources‌ and adopt recyclable aluminum substrate and LED does not contain harmful mercury.
‌High reliability and stability-‌resistant to high temperature, moisture and impact, and can adapt to complex environments (such as outdoor display screens and industrial equipment).
‌Fast response and dynamic performance-‌ LED response speed reaches nanoseconds, and with high-speed PCB signal transmission, smooth dynamic effects (such as game lighting synchronization) can be achieved.
‌Wide application scenarios-‌ decorative lighting (ambient lighting, advertising screens), electronic equipment (keyboard backlight), industrial indication and so on.

Advantages of RGB LED PCB Board

What Is the Use of LED RGB PCB board?

Decorative lighting– Ambient lighting, holiday decorative lights, dynamic color gradient, breathing lights, music-synchronized lighting effects.
‌Electronic equipment-‌ Keyboard backlight, computer case lighting effects, status indication of mobile phones/headphones, personalized lighting feedback of mouse, monitor.
‌Display and advertising– ‌LED large screen(stage, shopping mall, stadium), full-color dynamic display of billboards and signboards.
‌Industrial and signal indication -‌ Equipment status indicator (operation/fault/warning) and multi-color prompts for traffic signals and security systems.
‌Smart home -ceiling lights, table lamps with adjustable color temperature/color.
‌Art and entertainment– ‌Stage lighting, art installations, interactive light shows, background light adjustment for movies/studios.
‌Automotive lighting-‌ Interior atmosphere lights, chassis lights.

What Is the Use of LED RGB PCB board?

RGB LED PCB Manufacturers

Selecting the right RGB LED PCB manufacturer ensures high-quality PCBs for efficient LED performance. Reputable manufacturers provide design support, high-precision manufacturing, and customized solutions. Best Technology, a leading PCB manufacturer, offers expert engineering services and high-quality RGB LED PCBs tailored to specific applications. Here are more information about our company:

Technology leadership-Utilizes aluminum-based board with high-precision Surface Mounted Technology(SMT) , supporting monochrome/full-color RGB solutions.
One stop PCB solution: provide a wide range of RGB LED PCBs (including RGB LED strip PCB ) and matching electronic components, such as RGB LED driver PCB and RGB LED controller PCB.
Customized Solutions-Provide customized service( including custom logo) with low MOQ( one piece)
Quick Respond to Customers-Professional team online 24 hours, providing full process tracking from scheme design to prototyping and mass production.
Fast Delivery-Have a electronic manufacturing supply chain, providing one-stop solutions and PCBA services.

What Are the Materials of RGB LED light PCB?

Aluminum substrate– Suitable for high-power RGB LED scenarios (outdoor displays, wall washers).
FR4 board – Suitable for low-cost, low-power solutions (advertising light boxes, indoor decorative lights).
Flexible substrate (PI base material) : Suitable for bendable scenarios (LED strip lights, curved decorations).
Copper substrate– Suitable for high-power precision equipment (industrial equipment, high current modules).
Double-sided fully fiberglass PCB board-Suitable for high stability scenarios (commercial lighting, moisture resistance requirements).

Materials of RGB LED light PCB

How To Design RGB LED PCB?

1. Select LED and drive solution ‌

‌LED model‌: Prioritize models with integrated driver IC (such as WS2812B) to reduce peripheral circuits.

Diver Mode: Low power suitable for Direct MCU PWM drive (such as Arduino). High power suitable for Constant current driver chip (such as TLC5940) or MOSFET+resistor.

‌Interface type‌: Determine common anode or common cathode, and unify circuit logic.

‌2. Circuit schematic design ‌

‌Power input‌: Indicate voltage (5V/12V/24V) and maximum current.

Series control: short signal line + data flow direction mark (such as DIN→DOUT of WS2812B).

Parallel control: independent PWM signal line grouping.

‌Filter design‌: Add capacitor (10μF~100μF) to the power supply end, and add RC filter (100Ω+100pF) to the signal line.

‌3. PCB layout planning‌

‌LED arrangement‌: uniform spacing (avoid light spots), high-power LED spacing ≥10mm. Close to the edge of the PCB (reduce heat impact on sensitive components).

‌Component partitioning‌: the power module is away from the signal line. The MCU/driver chip is centrally arranged to shorten the signal path.

‌4. Power and ground wiring‌

‌Power line‌: line width ≥1mm/1A current, avoid right-angle routing.

‌Ground copper laying‌: full board laying to reduce noise and impedance.

‌Single-point grounding‌: digital ground, analog ground, and power ground are connected through 0Ω resistors or magnetic beads.

‌5. Signal line optimization‌

‌Signal priority‌: high-frequency signals (such as PWM) are given priority to short and straight routing.

Avoid parallel long-distance power lines (anti-interference).

‌Impedance control‌: add termination resistors (22~100Ω) when necessary.

‌6. Add test and debug interface‌

‌Power test point‌: VCC and GND reserved pads or through holes.

‌Signal test point‌: Key PWM signal lines are led out to the pin header.

‌Reserve jumper next to LED‌: Convenient for disconnection detection in case of fault.

‌7. Silkscreen and marking‌

‌Polarity mark‌: All LEDs are marked with “+” or “-” poles.

‌Interface marking‌: Clearly define the position of power, signal, and ground wires (such as “VIN”, “DIN”, “GND”).

‌Version number‌: The version is marked in the corner of the PCB (such as V1.0).

‌8. DRC rule check‌

‌Line width/spacing‌: Comply with PCB factory process (for example: minimum line width 0.2mm, spacing 0.15mm).

‌Short circuit/open circuit‌: EDA tool automatically checks (such as KiCad, EasyEDA).

‌Heat dissipation verification‌: Ensure that there are no dense traces in high-power areas.

‌9. Prototyping and test verification

‌After you made a RGB LED PCB prototype, you can do some functional and heat tests with it.

‌Color switching: Check whether the RGB mixing is normal.

Brightness consistency: Measure the voltage/current of each LED.

‌Heat test‌: Run continuously for 1 hour in a high-power scenario and measure the temperature rise (recommended ≤60℃)

FAQs of RGB LED PCB

What is the lifespan of an RGB LED PCB?
RGB LED PCBs can last over 50,000 hours, depending on heat management and component quality.

Can RGB LED PCB be customized?
Yes, RGB LED PCBs can be customized in terms of size, shape, and control features based on application needs.

What is the difference between RGB LED FR4 PCB and RGB LED aluminum PCB?
RGB LED aluminum PCB offer better heat dissipation, while RGB LED FR4 PCB are more cost-effective and suitable for low-power LEDs.

How do I control the colors in an RGB LED PCB?
Colors are controlled using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) technology via an LED driver or microcontroller.

Where can I buy high-quality RGB LED PCBs?
Best Technology provides high-quality RGB LED PCBs with expert design and manufacturing services.

In conclusion, that’s all about RGB LED PCB. If you want to know more about RGB LED PCB design, prototype and production, please feel free to contact Best Technology.(The email is at the beginning of this blog). Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Tags: rgb led light pcb, rgb led pcb
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, FR4 PCB, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

SMD LED PCB Board Design,Prototype&SMD LED PCB Manufacturer

March 18th, 2025

SMD LED PCB board design is very important in electronic products industry. From precise pad layout to efficient heat dissipation solutions, every detail is related to light efficiency and life. Whether it is rapid iteration in the prototype verification stage or cost optimization in the mass production stage, professional design needs to integrate electrical performance and process compatibility. In this blog, let’s learn together how to design SMD LED PCB boards and how to choose a good SMD LED PCB manufacturer.

If you want to move design to prototype and manufacture, Best technology can meet your all requirements for SMD LED PCB Board. Because we specializing in SMD LED PCB Board design, prototyping and production over 18 years, and we have an experienced PCB designers team who can give you free technical support. And we can provide you PI Analysis, SI Analysis, EMC Testing with the SMD LED PCB you designed. Then we can provide you with customized services (including customized Logo) with low MOQ (one piece is okay) at reasonable prices. You can feel free to contact us sales@bestpcbs.com if you have any request for SMD LED PCB.

What Is SMD LED PCB Board Design?

SMD LED PCB board design refers to the process of designing printed circuit boards that support Surface Mount Device (SMD) LEDs. These boards are commonly used in lighting applications, display panels, and electronic signage. Unlike through-hole LEDs, SMD LEDs are mounted directly onto the PCB surface, enhancing efficiency and reducing assembly costs.

SMD LED PCB Design Software

Here are common SMD LED PCB design software:

‌Altium Designer-Offers comprehensive PCB design tools with 3D visualization.

KiCad: A free, open-source option for designing SMD LED PCBs.

EAGLE: User friendly and widely used in hobbyist and professional projects.

Cadence Allegro: Suitable for High-speed signal design field

SMD LED PCB Design Layout

The design layout of SMD LED PCBs mainly includes the following aspects:

Heat dissipation priority‌: copper is laid in the concentrated area of LED for heat dissipation, away from high-temperature components to avoid heat accumulation.
‌Wire optimization‌: the power line is short and wide to reduce impedance; the signal line and the power line are layered or spaced to prevent interference.
‌Uniform arrangement‌: the LED spacing is consistent, avoiding obstructions to ensure that the light-emitting surface faces the same direction.
‌Pad matching‌: the pad is designed according to the package size to avoid cold soldering; sufficient soldering spacing is reserved.
‌Polarity identification‌: clearly mark the positive and negative poles of the LED to avoid reverse patch; leave debugging marks on the board.

SMD LED PCB Design Layout

SMD LED Circuit Board Diagram

Here is an example of SMD LED Circuit Board Diagram for reference:

This picture is only for reference, please refer to the actual SMD LED Circuit board design diagram. If you need support on this aspect, please contact us.( the email is at the beginning of this blog)

SMD LED PCB Board Manufacturer

When you have finished the design and want to find a SMD LED PCB Board Manufacturer to verify your design. At Best Technology, we can provide affordable prototyping cost with fast delivery, Here are more information about us:

Focus on SMD LED PCB Board design, prototype and manufacturing over 18 years and have an experienced designers team. We can provide you professional and free technical support quickly.

Have a complete electronic manufacturing supply chain, providing one-stop solutions and PCBA services. All components you needed we can help you purchase and assemble with PCB.

Provide PI Analysis, SI Analysis, EMC Testing with the SMD LED PCB you designed.

Strong process capability

Here is a chart of our process capabilities:

Base material	Aluminum/Copper/Iron Alloy
Thermal Conductivity	0.8, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 W/m.K.
Board Thickness	0.5mm~3.0mm(0.02″~0.12″)
Copper thickness:	0.5 OZ, 1.0 OZ, 2.0 OZ, 3.0 OZ, up to 10 OZ
Outline:	Routing, punching, V-Cut
Solder mask:	White/Black/Blue/Green/Red Oil
Legend/Silkscreen Color:	Black/White
Surface finishing:	Immersion Gold, HASL, OSP
Max Panel size:	600500mm(23.62″19.68″)
Packing:	Vacuum/Plastic bag
Samples L/T:	4~6 Days
MP L/T:	5~7 Days

How To Design SMD LED PCB Board?

1. Parameter confirmation and selection ‌

Single LED operating voltage (such as 3V), current (20mA) and maximum power consumption (power = voltage × current).

Series/parallel configuration: series voltage superposition (total voltage = single voltage × quantity), parallel connection requires current equalization design.

Materials For general scenario‌: FR4 board (cost-effective, temperature resistance 130℃).

Materials For high power scenario‌: Aluminum substrate (thermal conductivity ≥2.0W/m·K, temperature resistance 150℃).

‌2. Layout design‌

‌Similar LED spacing‌ rule: ≥0.3mm (to prevent solder bridging).

‌Dissimilar device spacing‌ rule: calculated according to the formula ‌0.13×height difference (mm)+0.3mm‌ (such as LED height 1mm, resistor height 0.5mm, spacing = 0.13×0.5+0.3≈0.365mm).

All LEDs have the same long axis direction and are perpendicular to the reflow soldering direction (to prevent hot air from causing deviation).

The distance between the component and the edge of the PCB is ≥3mm. If it cannot be avoided.

V-Cut board division‌: Cut after extending the board edge, and wiring is prohibited at the cut.

‌Stamp hole board division‌: Separated by a 0.8mm diameter hole array, the hole center is ≥1.5mm from the board edge

‌3. Routing and power design‌

‌Line width calculation‌: Under 1oz copper thickness, line width (mil) = current (A) ÷ 0.024 (such as 1A current requires ≥42mil).

‌Copper plating stiffener: The LED negative pad is connected to a large area of copper plating (to reduce impedance and assist heat dissipation).

Filter capacitor layout‌: Each LED is connected in parallel with a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor (mounting distance ≤5mm).

Add 10μF~100μF electrolytic capacitors to the power inlet (to suppress low-frequency ripple).

‌Ground plane division‌: Single-point connection between digital ground and power ground to avoid noise coupling.

‌4. Thermal management design‌

Heat dissipation hole array‌: 0.3~0.5mm diameter through holes (1~2mm spacing) are drilled directly below the high-power LED, and the inner wall of the hole is metallized (to enhance thermal conductivity).

Copper foil area expansion‌: The copper area under the LED is ≥ 3 times the pad area (the aluminum substrate can be omitted).

The distance between LED and heating components such as driver IC and MOS tube is ≥ 5mm.

Avoid arranging electrolytic capacitors in high-temperature areas.

‌5. Design for manufacturability (DFM)‌

‌Pad design‌: The pad size is 0.2mm larger than the LED pin (e.g. LED pin is 1.6×0.8mm, and the pad design is 1.8×1.0mm).

The solder mask opening is 0.05~0.1mm wider than the pad (to prevent the solder mask from covering the pad).

Polarity mark‌: Add a “+” symbol or silk screen frame next to the LED pad (to prevent reverse connection).

Mark point: a solid copper point with a diameter of 1mm is arranged diagonally, and there is no component within 3mm around it. ‌

‌6. Test and debugging reservation‌

Reserve a 30mil diameter circular test point for each LED string circuit (connect to the positive pole of the power supply, ground and dimming signal).

The test point spacing is ≥2mm to avoid probe short circuit.

Reserve ≥1.5mm channels in dense LED arrays to facilitate hot air gun rework.

7. Design verification and simulation‌

‌Thermal simulation‌: Use ANSYS Icepak or similar tools to verify the high temperature area (the temperature rise of the aluminum substrate should be ≤30℃).

‌Power integrity simulation‌: Check the power ripple through Sigrity or HyperLynx (target ≤5% rated voltage).

‌DRC inspection‌: Focus on checking line spacing (≥0.2mm), aperture (≥0.3mm), and pad and through-hole avoidance (≥0.15mm).

‌8. Production file output‌

‌Gerber file‌: Contains circuit layer, solder mask layer, silk screen layer, and drilling file (aperture tolerance ±0.05mm).

Process marking‌: Clearly specify the solder mask color (white is preferred), surface treatment (immersion gold/OSP), and whether the aluminum substrate needs an insulation layer.

Lastly, you can move the production file to the make a SMD LED PCB board prototype.

What Are SMD LED PCB Board Design Rules?

Minimum spacing rule: When SMD layout is in progress, ensuring a certain spacing between components can reduce the probability of problems such as cold soldering, bridging, and shadow effects during welding.

PCB edge requirements: SMD components should not be laid out within 3mm from the two sides of the SMD PCB. This is because the guide groove of the placement machine requires that no components are allowed within 3 to 5mm of the PCB board edge. If this size cannot be guaranteed, consider using V-grooves or stamp holes to lengthen the board, and then remove the excess board after welding.

Arrangement direction: The arrangement direction of the same components should be as consistent as possible, and a test point with a diameter of 30mil must be left on the same gold track. In addition, the arrangement direction of CHIP, SOT, and SOIC components should be perpendicular to the tinning direction as much as possible to avoid shadow effects.

Shadow effect: When wave soldering is used, components with large height differences should not be arranged close together to prevent the shadow effect of high components from affecting the soldering of low components.

Test point requirements: When a right-angle (vertical) arrangement is required, sufficient tinning space must be reserved. The distance of this space should be 0.635mm.

SMD LED PCB Board Design Rules

FAQ of SMD LED PCB Board Design

1. ‌Improper pad design leads to welding defects‌

Use “water drop” routing transition to avoid right-angle connection of pads.

Symmetrically design the pad size to ensure balanced heat capacity on both sides.

2. ‌Insufficient heat dissipation leads to shortened LED life‌

Lay a sufficient area of heat dissipation copper foil (≥50mm²/W) under the LED and add heat dissipation through holes.

Aluminum substrate or metal core PCB is preferred for high-power scenarios.

3. ‌Uneven current distribution of parallel LEDs‌

Use star topology wiring to ensure that the length and impedance of each parallel branch are consistent.

Use constant current driver chip instead of traditional resistor current limiting solution.

4. ‌Process problems caused by overly dense component layout‌

Ensure that the LED spacing is ≥0.5mm and is more than 3mm away from the board edge.

During wave soldering, adjust the LED arrangement direction perpendicular to the tinning direction, and use a stepped steel mesh to control the amount of solder paste.

5. ‌Polarity marking error or silk screen blocking the pad‌

Clearly mark the LED polarity (such as the “+” symbol), and keep the silk screen away from the edge of the pad by ≥0.2mm.

During design verification, check whether the solder mask opening fully exposes the pad.

To sum up, the above is about SMD LED PCB design and how to select a good PCB supplier. If you have any other questions about designing SMD LED PCB, please leave a message below our blog. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Tags: LED PCB board design, SMD LED PCB Board Design
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, SMT Technology | No Comments »

How To Make a LED PCB Board Design For Beginners?

March 14th, 2025

LED PCB Board design is very important for modern lighting systems, so learning how to design LED PCB Board is a necessary step for both beginners and engineers. As a beginner, you may be confused about how to start LED PCB design. This article will explore the design tools, design principles, design layout of LED PCB. Let’s start the discussion now!

If you want to find a supplier to help you design, prototyping and production, Best technology would be a good choice. Because we focus on LED PCB design, prototyping and production for 18 years, and we have a complete PCB production chain that can respond to your needs quickly and achieve fast delivery. We can provide you with customized services (including customized Logo) with low MOQ at affordable prices. which can turn your good design into high quality PCB products. Then you can have one piece LED PCB that only belongs to you. Please feel free to contact us at sales@bestpcbs.com if you’re interested in us.

What is LED PCB Board Design?

‌LED PCB board design‌ refers to the process of designing PCBs for packaging and mounting LED chips. The main purpose of LED PCB design is to ensure that the LED chip can emit light efficiently and then the entire circuit board has good electrical performance and thermal management capabilities.

Which Software Tool is Used for LED PCB Board Design?

Here are some common LED board design software as below:

Altium Designer– best for complex, professional designs, high cost, hard to learn.

KiCad-best for open-source, hobbyist projects, Free cost, Not too easy and not too hard to learn.

Autodesk Eagle– best for small-scale designs, Freemium cost, easy to learn.

Proteus– best for simulation-driven workflows, need to be paid, Not too easy and not too hard to learn.

‌Here is a small tip can help you how to choose the right software tool:

‌Beginners‌: Start with KiCad or Eagle for affordability.

‌Professionals‌: Altium for advanced features like 3D modeling.

Software Tool for LED PCB Board Design

What Is the Best Practice for LED PCB Board Design Layout?

LED PCB Board Design Layout best practices include the following aspects:

‌Design optimization‌: During the design phase, DFM (design for manufacturability) checks are required to avoid concentrated distribution of high-heat generating components and to design heat dissipation channels reasonably. Ensure that pad size, line width and line spacing meet process capabilities.

Layout principles‌: Layout designers usually use schematics as a guide for placing components on the board to ensure optimal network connectivity between parts. Fixed-position parts such as connectors and switches should be placed first, and processors and memory components should be placed close to their connectors for optimal routing.

‌Signal routing tips‌: Add a common ground layer under the signal routing to minimize the impedance between ground points. Add vias in the grid to avoid hot spots, and use 135° routing bends when routing high-speed signals to reduce characteristic impedance changes and signal loss of transmission lines. Increase signal spacing outside the bottleneck area to avoid crosstalk, use daisy chains to maintain signal integrity, and maintain a constant distance when laying out differential pairs to achieve the specified differential impedance.

‌Power supply layout‌: The power supply should be placed near the load to prevent long traces from affecting power supply accuracy and dynamic load response. In multi-layer PCB design, a ground or DC voltage layer should be added between the high current layer and the sensitive small signal layer as a shielding layer to reduce interference.

What Is the Basic Rule of LED PCB Board Design?

The basic rules of LED PCB Board Design is mainly about the following aspects:

Control trace length: In design, it is advisable to control the trace length as much as possible, especially for important signal lines such as clock signals. The oscillator should be placed very close to the device to reduce unnecessary interference.

Control trace width and spacing: To reduce crosstalk between lines, ensure that the line spacing is sufficient. When the center-to-center distance of lines is no less than three times the width of the lines, 70% of the electric field can remain unperturbed from each other, known as the 3W rule.

Avoid sharp corners and right angles: In PCB design, avoid creating sharp corners and right angles, as they can produce unnecessary radiation and affect process performance. All line-to-line angles should be ≥135°.

Avoid self-looping traces: During design, pay attention to whether signal lines form self-loops between different layers, especially when routing on multilayer boards. Self-loops can cause radiated interference.

Avoid ‘antenna effect’: Generally, do not allow one end of a trace to be suspended to avoid the ‘antenna effect’, which reduces unnecessary interference radiation and reception.

Crosstalk control: Crosstalk refers to the mutual interference caused by long parallel traces between different networks. The main measures to overcome crosstalk are to increase the spacing between parallel traces, follow the 3W rule; insert grounded isolation lines between parallel lines; and reduce the distance between the wiring layer and the ground plane.

Ground loop rule: The area enclosed by the signal line and its return path should be as small as possible. The smaller the loop area, the less external radiation there is, and the less interference from the outside world.

Basic Rule of LED PCB Board Design

How To Design a LED PCB for Beginners?

That’s all you need to know about how to make LED PCB Board Design for beginners:

1. Define Your Requirements

‌Start with the basics‌:

‌Voltage‌: Will it run on 5V (USB), 12V (car battery), or 24V (industrial)?
‌Current‌: Calculate total current = Number of LEDs × Forward Current per LED.
Example: 10 LEDs × 20mA each = 200mA (0.2A).

LED Type‌:

Low-power‌: 5mm LEDs (0.1W each, good for indicators).
‌High-power‌: COB (Chip-on-Board) LEDs (3W+, for lighting).
‌Small Tips‌: Always add a 20% safety margin to your current/voltage calculations.

2.‌ Draw the Schematic

‌Tools for Beginners‌:

‌KiCad‌ (free): Easy-to-use symbol libraries.
‌Easy EDA‌ (web-based): Drag-and-drop interface.

Add LEDs: Place symbols in series/parallel.

Series‌: Higher voltage requirement (e.g., 3 LEDs × 3V = 9V).
‌Parallel‌: Same voltage, independent control (add resistors to each branch).
Add Resistors: Use Ohm’s Law
Include Drivers: For high-power LEDs, use constant-current drivers (e.g., LM3414).
‌Common Mistake‌: Forgetting reverse polarity protection (add a diode in series).

3. Choose Components

‌Critical Parts‌: ‌LEDs‌ and ‌PCB Substrate‌

‌LEDs‌:

CREE XML2 (for high brightness)
WS2812B (addressable RGB LEDs)
‌Resistors‌: 1/4W for low-power, 1W+ for high-current.

‌PCB Substrate‌:

‌FR4‌: Cheap, good for low-power (<1W/LED).
Aluminum Core (MCPCB)‌: Mandatory for high-power LEDs (3W+).

How To Design a LED PCB for Beginners?

Small Tips‌: Buy extra components – beginners often burn LEDs during testing!

4. Points of Wiring Technology

Power supply line

Main power line width ≥ 0.5mm (1A current corresponds to a line width of about 0.8mm)
Use star topology for power supply to avoid cascade voltage drop

Signal line

The distance between the control signal line (such as PWM dimming line) and the power line ≥ 3 times the line width.
Add terminal matching resistors to long-distance signal lines

Special treatment

Large-area copper grounding (grid copper can reduce thermal stress)
Avoid routing under the LED (to prevent light interference)

5. Design Verification

Electrical inspection‌:

Use DRC to check the minimum line spacing (recommended ≥0.2mm) and pad spacing‌
Verify current carrying capacity: 1oz copper thickness carries 1A current per mm line width‌

‌Actual test‌:

Use a multimeter to test short circuit/open circuit before welding
Use an infrared thermometer to detect LED temperature rise after power on (≤60℃)‌

6. Production File Output
When you are generating Gerber files, please pay attention to:

Mark the polarity of LEDs (+/- symbols)
Add silk screen layer positioning marks
Indicate board thickness (recommended 1.6mm) and surface process (recommended immersion gold)

7. Prototype & Test

If you have made a LED PCB prototype, the next step is testing. Here are three steps for testing:

‌Safety Checks‌:

Visual Inspection‌: Look for solder bridges or misaligned components.
Continuity Test‌: Use a multimeter to check shorts.

‌Power Up‌:

Start with 50% of max voltage.
Measure temperature with a ‌thermal camera‌ or IR thermometer.

‌Troubleshooting‌:

LEDs Not Lighting‌: Check polarity and resistor values.
Overheating‌: Reduce current or improve heat dissipation.

If you have any issues about this design process, welcome to leave a message below this blog.

How To Make LED Circuit Board?

Here are the production processes of how to make LED circuit board:

Cutting Materials: Cut the copper clad board into the required size to ensure that the material size meets the requirements of subsequent processing.

Drilling Holes: Use a high-precision drilling machine to drill precise through holes on the circuit board. The hole wall is smooth and burr-free to ensure that the hole wall has good adhesion.

Copper Plating: Chemically treat the hole wall of the PCB to ensure that the hole wall has good adhesion. The copper ions in the electrolyte are evenly deposited on the hole wall by electrochemical methods to form a thin and uniform copper foil layer.

Graphic Transfer: Use LDI (laser direct imaging) technology to accurately project the circuit diagram onto the copper clad layer of the PCB, and display the prototype of the circuit diagram through exposure and development processes

Electroplating: Further increase the thickness of the copper layer on the developed circuit and hole wall to ensure Its conductive properties and mechanical strength

Etching: Remove unnecessary copper foil through etching process and retain the required circuit pattern.

Solder Mask: Apply solder mask on PCB board to reduce short circuit risk and provide electrical insulation.

Legends Identification: Identify different component types through a combination of letters and numbers to avoid mounting errors.

Surface Treatment: Protect copper layer, improve welding performance, enhance corrosion resistance, etc., including hot air solder leveling (HASL), immersion tin (IMSN), chemical nickel immersion gold (ENIG), etc.

Molding: Cut into specific shapes as needed.

Testing: Detect defects such as open circuit and short circuit that affect functionality through electronic testing.

Final inspection: Visually inspect the appearance defects of the board and repair minor defects.

LED PCB Manufacturers

When you have completed the design and want to find a LED PCB Manufacturer to produce samples to verify your design. Are you worried about the high cost and long delivery time of PCB prototyping? Choose Best Technology, we can provide affordable prototyping cost with fast delivery, so you don’t worry about these problems. Here are more information about us.

Specialize in high quality LED PCB design, prototype and manufacturing over 18 years and have an experienced production teams. We can handle a lot of issues quickly if there is any issue with the production and achieve fast delivery.

Providing customized services based on customer’s need with low MOQ and competitive price.

Strict Quality Management Systems. We have obtained ISO certificate and adopted automatic optical inspection (AOI) and X-ray machines.

Have a complete electronic manufacturing supply chain, providing one-stop solutions and PCBA services. You don’t need to spending time and energy to purchase electronic parts everywhere.

Have professional pre-sales and after-sales team. Pre-sales can help you solve various design and production questions. and after-sales can help you deal with after-sales problems if your goods have any quality problem.

Have a branch factory in Vietnam to respond to fast delivery.

FAQs of LED PCB Board Design

1. What is the best material for LED PCB?

Aluminum are preferred for their heat dissipation properties.

FR4 is another option but requires additional cooling mechanisms.

2. Can I design an LED PCB without software?

While hand-drawing is possible, software provides accuracy, efficiency, and simulation capabilities for better results.

3. What are the challenges in LED PCB design?

Managing heat, ensuring uniform brightness, and optimizing power efficiency are key challenges. Proper layout and material selection help overcome these issues.

4. How to reduce heat in an LED PCB?

Use aluminum substrates, thermal vias, and heat sinks. Proper component placement and copper pours also improve heat dissipation.

If you want to know more about how to design a LED PCB board, welcome to contact us. (The email is at the beginning of this blog) Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Tags: LED PCB board design, led pcb design
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Metal Core PCB Design, Manufacturer Over 18 Years Experience

March 14th, 2025

Metal core PCB is designed for applications requiring efficient heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-power electronics. Unlike standard PCBs, it features a metal base, typically aluminum or copper, that enhances thermal conductivity and improves durability. This design helps prevent overheating, ensuring stable performance in LED lighting, automotive systems, and power electronics. As industries demand reliable and heat-resistant circuit boards, metal core PCBs have become a preferred choice.

Best Technology has over 18 years of experience designing metal core PCBs. We are a professional metal core PCB manufacturer, mainly involved in all types of PCB manufacturing. If you need a metal core PCB, please feel free to contact us at sales@bestpcbs.com.

What is a Metal Core PCB?

A metal core PCB (MCPCB) is a specialized type of printed circuit board that features a metal core instead of the standard FR4 or other non-metallic substrates. The metal core, typically made of aluminum, copper, or steel, helps dissipate heat efficiently, making it a preferred choice for high-power applications such as LED lighting, automotive electronics, and power conversion systems.

Unlike regular PCBs, which rely on thermal vias or external heat sinks for cooling, MCPCBs conduct heat directly through their metal base. This results in better thermal management, increased reliability, and a longer lifespan for electronic components. If you’ve ever wondered why some circuit boards perform better under high temperatures, chances are they are using metal core PCB technology.

What Are the Different Types of Metal Core PCBs?

Metal Core PCBs (MCPCBs) are classified based on three key dimensions: Layer Structure, Heat Dissipation, Application-Specific Features.

1. Classification by Layer Structure

Single-Layer MCPCB

Structure: A metal base, an insulating dielectric layer, and a single copper layer for circuit traces.
Best For: LED lighting, power supplies, and basic thermal management applications.
Key Benefit: Simple and cost-effective with efficient heat dissipation.

Two-Layer MCPCB

Structure: Two copper layers put on the one side of MCPCB, with an aluminum or copper base.
Best For: Power circuits requiring more routing flexibility than single-layer MCPCBs.
Key Benefit: Improved circuit complexity and higher current capacity.

Double-Sided MCPCB

Structure: Copper layers on both sides of the metal core, connected via plated through-holes (PTHs).
Best For: Automotive control systems, industrial power converters, and motor drivers.
Key Benefit: Enhanced circuit routing options and improved electrical performance.

Multilayer MCPCB

Structure: Multiple copper and dielectric layers stacked on a metal core.
Best For: Advanced applications like aerospace, telecommunications, and high-power LED lighting.
Key Benefit: Increased circuit density, better signal integrity, and superior heat dissipation.

2. Classification by Heat Dissipation Technology

Standard MCPCB

Structure: A conventional metal core PCB with a dielectric layer that transfers heat from components to the metal base.
Key Benefit: Moderate thermal performance, widely used in consumer electronics and LED modules.

SinkPAD MCPCB (Enhanced Thermal Management)

SinkPAD is a specialized MCPCB technology designed for superior heat dissipation by reducing thermal resistance. Unlike standard MCPCBs, SinkPAD boards allow heat to transfer directly from the component to the metal base without passing through an insulating dielectric layer.

1L SinkPAD Board (Single-Layer SinkPAD)

Structure: A single copper layer with direct thermal pathways to the metal core.
Best For: High-power LED modules and power supplies requiring fast heat dissipation.
Key Benefit: More efficient cooling than standard single-layer MCPCBs.

2L SinkPAD Board (Two-Layer SinkPAD)

Structure: Two copper layers with a thermal connection to the metal core.
Best For: Medium-power applications, such as LED drivers and automotive lighting.
Key Benefit: Improved thermal performance and better electrical conductivity.

Double-Sided SinkPAD Board

Structure: Copper layers on both sides of the metal core, providing heat dissipation pathways on both surfaces.
Best For: High-power industrial electronics, automotive systems, and power management circuits.
Key Benefit: Balanced thermal performance and high electrical efficiency.

Multi-Layer SinkPAD Board

Structure: Multiple copper layers with direct heat dissipation channels integrated into the metal core.
Best For: Aerospace, military, and high-end LED applications requiring extreme heat management.
Key Benefit: Maximized thermal efficiency for complex, high-power circuits.

3. Classification by Application-Specific Features

COB (Chip-on-Board) MCPCB

Structure: LED chips are mounted directly onto the metal core PCB without individual packaging.
Best For: High-brightness LED applications such as streetlights, automotive headlights, and stadium lighting.
Key Benefit: Lower thermal resistance, higher efficiency, and reduced size compared to traditional LED modules.

Selecting the right MCPCB depends on your thermal management needs, power requirements, and circuit complexity. For simple applications, a single-layer MCPCB may suffice, while high-power and heat-sensitive applications benefit from SinkPAD or multilayer MCPCBs.

What Materials Are Used to Make Metal Core PCBs?

MCPCBs are made from a combination of conductive and non-conductive materials to ensure durability and heat dissipation. Here’s a breakdown of the materials:

Metal Core – The base material is typically aluminum, copper, or stainless steel. Aluminum core PCBs are lightweight and cost-effective, while copper metal core PCBs offer superior heat dissipation but are more expensive.
Dielectric Layer – This electrically insulating but thermally conductive layer separates the copper circuit layer from the metal core. It plays a crucial role in transferring heat while preventing electrical shorts.
Copper Layer – The conductive layer where circuit traces are formed. The thickness of this layer varies based on current-carrying requirements, with heavy copper PCBs featuring thicker traces for power electronics.

The selection of metal core PCB materials depends on your design needs, thermal requirements, and budget.

‌How to Design a Metal Core PCB?‌

Designing a metal core PCB (MCPCB) requires meticulous planning to ensure optimal performance. Here are some key considerations for designing an effective MCPCB:

‌Component Placement‌

High-Power Components Near the Metal Core‌: Position high-power components close to the metal core to enhance heat dissipation and maintain thermal stability.

‌Thermal Management‌

‌Thermal Vias‌: Incorporate thermal vias to efficiently transfer heat from the components to the metal core.
‌Proper Spacing‌: Ensure adequate spacing between components to prevent overheating and maintain air circulation for effective cooling.

‌Layer Stack-up‌

‌Bonding Strength‌: When designing multilayer MCPCBs, ensure robust bonding between the dielectric and metal layers to maintain structural integrity and thermal conductivity.

‌Trace Width and Spacing‌

‌Wider Traces for Current Flow‌: Use wider traces to reduce resistance and improve current flow, especially for high-power applications.
‌Adequate Spacing for Safety‌: Maintain sufficient spacing between traces to prevent electrical shorts and ensure safety.

‌Drilling and Routing‌

‌Special Manufacturing Techniques‌: Due to the hardness of metal core boards, special drilling and routing techniques are required. Consult with your manufacturer to ensure compatibility with their production processes.

‌Design Software‌

‌Professional PCB Design Software‌: Utilize professional PCB design software to optimize the manufacturing process, prevent design flaws, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Additionally, consider the following for a comprehensive MCPCB design:
‌Material Selection‌: Choose the appropriate metal core material (e.g., aluminum, copper) based on your thermal and mechanical requirements.
‌Dielectric Layer Properties‌: Select a dielectric layer with good thermal conductivity and electrical insulation properties.
‌Antipad Application‌: In double-sided MCPCB designs, apply an antipad to indicate the via-hole region that requires an insulating filter to prevent electrical shorts.

As a leading metal core PCB manufacturer over 18 Years Experience, we excel in metal core PCB design. We can design a metal core PCB that maximizes performance, ensures reliability, and meets your specific application needs.

‌What Are the Benefits of a Metal Core PCB?‌

Why should you choose MCPCBs over traditional FR4 boards? Here are the key advantages:

‌Superior Heat Dissipation‌: The metal core (e.g., aluminum or copper) rapidly absorbs and distributes heat away from components, ‌reducing thermal stress‌ and preventing performance degradation in high-power circuits.

‌Higher Durability‌: MCPCBs withstand extreme temperatures, mechanical shocks, and vibrations better than FR4, making them ideal for harsh industrial or automotive environments.

‌Improved Electrical Performance‌: Lower thermal resistance minimizes voltage drops and parasitic inductance, enhancing efficiency in high-current applications.

‌Extended Lifespan‌: Effective thermal management reduces component fatigue, significantly prolonging the operational life of electronics.

‌Compact Design‌: Eliminates the need for bulky heat sinks, enabling slim and lightweight solutions for space-constrained applications like LED modules or EV power systems.

‌What Are the Applications of Metal Core PCBs?‌

Thanks to their high thermal conductivity and reliability, MCPCBs are widely used in:

‌LED Lighting‌: Critical for high-brightness LED applications (e.g., streetlights, automotive headlights), where they prevent overheating and ensure consistent light output and longevity.

‌Automotive Electronics‌: Used in electric vehicle (EV) battery management systems, motor controllers, and brake systems to handle high currents and extreme temperature fluctuations.

‌Power Electronics‌: Essential for inverters, converters, and industrial power supplies that require heavy copper layers and stable thermal performance.

‌Medical Devices‌: Found in MRI machines, X-ray equipment, and surgical tools, where reliability and heat dissipation are critical for patient safety.

‌Telecommunications‌: Supports high-frequency RF/microwave circuits in 5G infrastructure and radar systems, reducing signal loss caused by heat buildup.

Why Choose Best Technology as Your Metal Core PCB Manufacturer?

With so many circuit board manufacturing companies out there, why should you choose Best Technology? Here’s what sets us apart:

18+ Years of Experience: We specialize in metal core PCB fabrication with cutting-edge technology over 18 years.

Wide Range of Solutions: From single-layer MCPCB to multi-layer SinkPAD board, we manufacture all types of PCBs. If you have related inquiries or questions, you are warmly welcome to contact us.

Custom Designs: Do you need a metal core PCB prototype? We offer quick-turn prototypes tailored to your needs.

High-Quality Standards: We use premium metal core PCB materials for better durability and performance.

FAQs of Metal Core PCB

1. What metals are in circuit boards?

Circuit boards contain different metals depending on their type. Copper is the most common metal used for conductive traces due to its excellent electrical properties. In metal core PCBs (MCPCBs), the core is typically made of aluminum or copper to improve heat dissipation. Steel is rarely used because it’s heavier and less effective at conducting heat.

2. What is the difference between FR4 and MCPCB?

MCPCB VS Regular PCB: What are Differences? FR4 PCBs are made from fiberglass-reinforced epoxy, offering a low-cost, durable, and electrically insulating solution. However, they have limited heat dissipation capabilities, making them suitable for applications with moderate power levels.

MCPCBs (Metal Core PCBs) have a metal base (usually aluminum or copper) with a thermally conductive dielectric layer, allowing them to dissipate heat 5–8 times better than FR4. These are ideal for high-power applications, such as LED lighting and power electronics, where heat management is critical.

3. How are metal core PCBs laminated?

Laminating a metal core PCB involves several steps:

Metal Base Preparation – The aluminum or copper core is cleaned and sometimes treated to improve insulation and corrosion resistance.
Dielectric Layer Application – A thermally conductive but electrically insulating layer is applied between the metal base and the copper circuitry.
Copper Lamination – The copper foil is bonded to the dielectric layer using high pressure and heat to ensure strong adhesion.

This process ensures the PCB can effectively transfer heat away from components while maintaining electrical insulation.

4. How to make metal core PCB?

The manufacturing process for metal core PCBs includes:

Cutting and Cleaning the Metal Core – The aluminum or copper base is cut to the required size and cleaned to remove any impurities.
Applying the Dielectric Layer – A heat-conductive but non-conductive layer is added to separate the metal core from the copper circuit.
Etching the Circuit Pattern – The copper layer is coated with a photoresist, exposed to UV light, and etched to create circuit traces.
Drilling and Plating – Holes are drilled for vias and plated with copper to establish electrical connections.
Surface Finishing – A protective finish like ENIG (Electroless Nickel/Immersion Gold) or OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) is applied to prevent oxidation and improve solderability.
Testing and Quality Control – The finished boards undergo electrical and thermal testing to ensure they meet performance requirements.

This process results in a highly durable and heat-efficient PCB, making it suitable for applications that require superior thermal management.

In conclusion, metal core PCBs are the go-to solution for applications that demand superior thermal management, durability, and high performance. Whether you’re working with high-power LED lighting, automotive electronics, or power conversion systems, MCPCBs ensure stable operation under extreme conditions. With different types such as single layer MCPCB, multi layers MCPC, and advanced SinkPAD MCPCBs, designers can choose the right configuration based on their specific thermal and electrical requirements.

At Best Technology, we leverage 18+ years of experience in PCB manufacturing to deliver high-quality metal core PCBs tailored to your needs. From prototype development to mass production, we provide reliable, high-performance solutions with strict quality control. For inquiries or more info about metal core PCB, welcome to email us at sales@bestpcbs.com.

Tags: MCPCB, Metal Core PCB, Metal Core PCB Design, PCB, pcb design, printed circuit board
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB | No Comments »

Direct Thermal Path MCPCB Stack Up, Design & Prototype

March 13th, 2025

What is Direct Thermal Path MCPCB?

A Direct Thermal Path MCPCB (DTP MCPCB) also called sink Pad MCPCB, or thermoelectric separation MCPCB. It is a specialized type of metal-core PCB that design with a thermal convexity Pad to create a direct thermal path. It made of copper core/pedestal, so that the thermal Pad of LED chips can touch the convexity area of metal core directly, ensure a better heat dissipation.

The core of these boards is typically made of copper for ultra-high conductivity. The magic happens in the convexity Pad —a thin, thermally conductive that bonds the circuit layer to the metal base directly. See the stack up of a direct thermal path PCB as below for make sense:

Why Does Direct Thermal Path PCB Matter?

Heat is the enemy of electronics. When components overheat, performance drops, lifespans shorten, and failure risks rise. For example, an LED’s brightness can fade by 30% if its temperature rises just 20°C above optimal levels. Direct Thermal Path MCPCBs solve this by:

Cutting thermal resistance: Heat escapes 8–10x faster than in standard boards.
Preventing hotspots: Even temperature distribution avoids component burnout.
Improving reliability: Cooler parts = 50% fewer breakdowns in harsh environments.

For industries where reliability is non-negotiable—like aerospace or medical devices—this tech is a game-changer. A drone’s flight controller using DTP MCPCBs, for instance, can handle prolonged use without throttling performance.

Benefits of Direct Thermal Path MCPCB

Superior Heat Management: Direct contact with the metal core allows faster heat transfer, 8–10x faster than standard FR4 PCBs.
Higher Component Reliability: Stable temperatures reduce stress on electronic parts.
Compact Designs: No bulky heatsinks needed—ideal for slim devices like VR headsets.
Longer Lifespan: Heat-sensitive components last longer due to better thermal management.
Cost-Effective: Fewer cooling parts mounted, reducing 15-20% assembly costs.
Versatility: Works in extreme temps (-50°C to 300°C).
Increased Energy Efficiency: Lower thermal resistance enhances overall power efficiency.
Consistent Performance – Devices run more reliably under high-power conditions.

Direct Thermal Path MCPCB Key Components

The materials used in DTP MCPCBs play a significant role in performance. Common options include:

1. Metal Core (Base Layer)

The metal core provides structural integrity and acts as the primary heat dissipator. Options include:

Copper – Mostly used. Superior thermal performance (up to 400 W/m·K) but heavier and more expensive.
Aluminum – Lightweight, but it is rarely made, because normal aluminum PCB can meet most of heat dissipation needs.

2. Circuit Layer (Copper Foil)

1oz to 6oz copper thickness depending on the application. Thicker copper enhances current-carrying capacity and heat dissipation.

3. Dielectric Layer (Optional in Some Designs)

In regular MCPCBs, this layer insulates the circuit from the metal core.
In DTP MCPCBs, selected areas have no dielectric layer, ensuring direct heat transfer.

4. Solder Mask & Silkscreen & Surface Finish

Solder Mask – Protects the copper circuit from oxidation and damage.
Silkscreen – Printing labels, company logo, trace names etc for identifying and smooth PCB assembly process.
Surface Finishes – Options like ENIG, OSP, or HASL prevent corrosion and enhance solderability.

Types of Direct Thermal Path MCPCB

Single-Layer DTP:

Basic design with one conductive layer.

Ideal for simple LED lighting (e.g., household bulbs).

Cost-effective for high-volume production.

Double-Layer DTP:

Extra layer for complex circuits.

Used in automotive controls (e.g., EV battery monitors).

Supports moderate power loads (50–100W).

Multi-Layer DTP:

Advanced setups with 4+ layers for high-density electronics.

Common in servers, 5G infrastructure, and industrial robots.

Handles 200W+ components with ease.

For more information of each type and direct thermal path MCPCB stack up, click into our official website:

DTP MCPCB vs. Regular MCPCB

The thermal conductivity of the thermoelectric separation MCPCB is as high as 380W/m.K, which is much higher than the 1-2W/m.K‌ of the regular metal core PCB. The thermoelectric separation structure makes the LED chip directly touch with copper substrate, reducing the thermal resistance, thus improving the heat dissipation effect. In addition to this, the fabrication process of DTP MCPCB is more complex‌, manufacturers need to purchase copper base and insulation layer, then processing and laminating separately. Here are some other differences between the two:

Feature	DTP MCPCB	Regular MCPCB
Thermal Resistance	Lower due to direct heat path	Higher due to dielectric layer
Heat Dissipation	Faster and more efficient	Slower, limited by dielectric layer
Weight	Slightly heavier due to copper core	Lighter in some cases (when used aluminum as core)
Thermal Path	Direct (no gaps)	Insulated (slower transfer)
Applications	EVs, industrial lasers	Consumer electronics, low-power

Applications of Direct Thermal Path MCPCB

DTP MCPCBs are widely used in industries requiring high-performance thermal solutions:

LED Lighting – Enhances efficiency and longevity in high-brightness LED modules.

Power Electronics – Used in inverters, power supplies, and energy storage systems.

Telecommunication – Improves stability in high-frequency and RF applications.

Medical Devices – Ensures reliability in imaging systems and diagnostic tools.

Automotive Industry – Supports high-power applications like EV battery management.

Aerospace & Defense – Used in radar systems and avionics for thermal stability.

Manufacturing Process of Direct Thermal Path MCPCB

1. Preparation of Manufacturing Files

The first step is preparing the manufacturing files. This involves separating the copper core and circuit traces from a single Gerber layer into two distinct layers. The trace layer contains only the circuit traces without the central heatsink pad of the LED, while the copper core layer consists solely of the heatsink pad. This separation ensures precise processing in later stages.

2. Production of the Trace Layer and Copper Core Layer

Both layers are produced separately.

Trace Layer Production

The trace layer follows a standard PCB manufacturing process, using materials like FR4 or BT (Bismaleimide-Triazine), with BT being the preferred choice due to its thermal properties.

Copper Core Layer Processing

Processing the copper core is more complex.

a) The copper core thickness typically ranges from 0.8mm to 2.0mm and comes with protective blue film on both sides. The film is removed before etching to expose the copper surface.

b) After the raw material is cut, the copper core undergoes grinding to remove impurities, ensuring a clean surface for the next steps.

c) A blue film layer is applied over the entire copper core. After the developing and etching process, only selected areas of the blue film remain, marking the locations of the heatsink pad.

3. Lamination of the Trace Layer and Copper Core Layer

Once both layers are prepared, they are laminated together.

Glue is applied to the bottom side of the trace layer for bonding.
CNC milling/routing is performed to remove the cutout areas where the raised heatsink pad will be placed.
After peeling off the white release paper, the trace layer is aligned and placed onto the copper core, forming the SinkPAD structure that enhances thermal performance.

4. Solder Mask Application

After hot lamination, the boards are cleaned before applying the solder mask.

A stencil is used to align the board before printing solder mask ink.
The solder mask color is applied using either a manual process for small batches or an automatic printer for mass production. Common colors include white, black, green, blue, yellow, and red.
The boards are left to stand for one hour before being baked in an oven.
The solder mask is then developed using UV light exposure and etched, leaving only the required solder mask areas.

5. Silkscreen Printing

Silkscreen markings are printed using a silk-screening process without requiring additional development or etching. This step ensures component labels and markings are clearly visible.

6. Surface Finishing

A suitable surface treatment is applied to the exposed copper areas to improve solderability and prevent oxidation.

Common finishes include OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative) and ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold).
HAL (Hot Air Leveling) is not used for SinkPAD boards due to process limitations.
Special surface finishes can be applied based on customer requirements.

7. Final Inspection and Shipment

Each board undergoes a strict electrical test (E-testing) and final quality control (FQC) to verify circuit integrity and manufacturing accuracy. Once approved, the boards are carefully packed and shipped according to customer specifications.

Throughout the entire process, every step is closely monitored to ensure high-quality solder masks, precise silkscreen printing, and flawless surface finishing, meeting all design and performance expectations.

Why Choose Best Technology?

With over 18 years of experience, Best Technology is a trusted name in PCB manufacturing. Our DTP MCPCBs deliver superior thermal management, longer lifespan, and excellent performance. Whether you need high-power LED PCBs, automotive PCBs, or industrial thermal solutions, we provide tailored solutions to meet your needs.

Our Direct Thermal Path MCPCB Manufacturing Capability

Best Technology specializes in custom DTP MCPCBs with the following capabilities:

Base material: Copper core: 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.2mm, 1.4mm, 1.5mm

Thermal Conductivity: 400 W/m.K.

Board Thickness: 1.0 mm~2.0mm(0.04″~0.08″)

Copper thickness: 0.5 OZ, 1.0 OZ, 2OZ, (specially 3-10 OZ)

Outline: Routing, punching, V-Cut

Soldermask: White/Black/Blue/Green/Red Oil

Legend/Silkscreen Color: Black/White/Yellow

Surface finishing: Immersion Gold, ENEPIG, Immersion Tin, OSP

Max Panel size: 600*500mm(23.62″*19.68″)

Packing: Vacuum/Plastic bag

Samples L/T: 1.5~2.5 weeks

MP L/T: 2.5~3.5 weeks

For premium Direct Thermal Path MCPCBs, contact Best Technology today!

Tags: Direct Thermal Path MCPCB, thermoelectric separation MCPCB
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, SinkPAD | No Comments »