Archive for the ‘PCB News’ Category

Rigid flex pcb Design & Prototype Right the First Time

Monday, August 12th, 2024

rigid-flex printed circuit board ,Rigid flex pcb manufacturer. More than 5 years design team of 10 people. Quick proofing within 1 week. A 3,000-square-meter factory for small batch to mass production and assembly.

What is a rigid flex pcb?

Rigid flex pcb,rigid-flex printed circuit board，Rigid flex circuit are a hybrid construction flex circuit consisting of rigid and flexible substrates which are laminated together into a single structure. Each layer of rigid-flex circuit are electrically interconnected by plated through holes (PTH), which is different from a flexible circuit with FR4/PI stiffener on top or bottom of flex circuit only by the means of presensive or thermal senstive adhesive only, no PTH.

Rigid-flex PCBs can be divided into single-sided boards, double-sided boards and multi-layer boards according to the number of conductive circuit layers. Multi-layer boards usually contain multiple rigid layers and flexible layers, and the circuits are connected and interconnected through interlayer connections.

Is Rigid flex PCB reliable?

Design and manufacturing efficiency: Designers of rigid-flex boards can use a single component to replace a composite printed circuit board connected by multiple connectors, multiple cables and ribbon cables, which not only has stronger performance and higher stability, but also limits the scope of the design to one component, optimizing the available space by bending and folding the lines like a stacked paper swan.
Space and weight optimization: In PCB prototyping for consumer electronics, the use of rigid-flex boards not only maximizes space use and minimizes weight, but also greatly improves reliability, eliminating many needs for solder joints and fragile and fragile wiring that are prone to connection problems. The design of this circuit board allows the size and weight of equipment and systems to be reduced while maintaining functionality.
High stress environment adaptability: Rigid-flex boards also have high impact resistance and can survive in high stress environments, which makes it widely used in military, aviation and medical equipment.
Excellent electrical performance: Rigid-flex boards provide excellent electrical performance, and good thermal conductivity makes components easy to cool. The lower dielectric constant of the flexible part allows for fast transmission of electrical signals, and the PI substrate has a higher glass transition temperature or melting point, which allows the components to operate well at higher temperatures.
Assembly reliability: Rigid-flex boards reduce the hardware required for traditional rigid boards and flexible boards to be connected, such as traditional jumper sockets, etc., and can provide higher assembly reliability.

What is the difference between rigid flex and semi flex?

Definition and structure
Rigid-flexible board: It is a combination of soft board and hard board, that is, a thin layer of flexible bottom layer and rigid bottom layer are combined and laminated into a single component to form a circuit board1. It changes the traditional flat design concept and expands it to a three-dimensional space concept. It has both rigid layer and flexible layer and is a multi-layer printed circuit board.
Semi-flexible board: It is a PCB used in the field of static bending obtained by combining controlled deep milling or rigid-flexible board processing technology (such as milling cover or opening window, etc.) in the standard hard board processing process2. It often uses FR4 material, first processes the PCB according to the normal process, and then mills the middle part that needs to be bent to make it flexible.
Flexibility and application
Rigid-flexible board: It has higher flexibility and can be bent, folded or rounded, and then integrated into various products, such as aerospace equipment, military aircraft, high-end medical equipment, digital cameras, portable cameras and high-quality MP3 players. ‌
Semi-flexible board: Although it can be bent or curved, its flexibility is not as good as that of rigid-flexible board. It is mainly used in situations where static bending is required, such as endoscopes in medical equipment, injection needle tip protection circuit boards, and medical equipment temperature control circuit boards. ‌
Processing and cost
Rigid-flexible board: Due to the mixed use of multiple materials and multiple production steps, its processing time is longer and the production cost is higher. ‌
Semi-flexible board: Although its processing process is also more complicated, its processing cost is lower than that of rigid-flexible board, and it is more suitable in some applications. ‌
Features and advantages
Rigid-flexible board: It has stronger performance and higher stability, can reduce space and weight, and improve the reliability of connection. ‌
Semi-flexible board: It has the advantages of low cost, good dimensional stability, bendable three-dimensional installation to reduce space, and reduce the number of interfaces during assembly to improve reliability.‌

how do they add rigid layers to flex pcb?

Design layout: Before starting the manufacturing process, the PCB design layout is first carried out to determine the location and connection method of the components. ‌
Substrate preparation: Clean the laminate containing the copper layer to prepare for the subsequent manufacturing process. ‌
Pattern generation: The generation of circuit patterns is completed by screen printing or photo imaging. ‌
Etching process: The laminate with the circuit pattern is soaked in an etching tank or sprayed with an etchant solution for etching. ‌
Mechanical drilling: Circuit holes, pads and via patterns are drilled using a precision drilling system or technology, such as laser drilling technology. ‌
Copper plating process: Deposit the required copper in the plated vias to establish electrical interconnections between layers. ‌
Covering layer application and lamination: Apply the covering layer material (such as polyimide film) and adhesive, and laminate under specific temperature, pressure and vacuum limits to ensure proper adhesion of the covering layer. ‌
Apply stiffeners: Apply local additional stiffeners before additional lamination processes as required by the board design. ‌
Flexible board cutting: Cut flexible boards from production panels using hydraulic punching methods or specialized punching knives. ‌
Electrical testing and verification: Conduct electrical testing in accordance with IPC-ET-652 guidelines to confirm that the insulation, connection, quality, and performance of the circuit board meet the requirements of the design specifications.

What are the disadvantages of rigid flex PCB?

Material damage or breakage: The flexible materials used in rigid-flex boards are susceptible to flexure and bending. Long-term use or improper handling may cause damage or breakage of the flexible part, resulting in an open circuit.
Poor welding: The manufacture of rigid-flex boards requires welding processes. If the welding is poor or the solder joints are of poor quality, it may cause loose connections or solder joints to fall off, resulting in an open circuit.
Excessive bending or stretching: Excessive bending or stretching during use may cause the connection wires or wires of the flexible part to be stretched excessively and break, causing an open circuit.
Design defects: If the design of the rigid-flex board is unreasonable or defective, such as insufficient design of the overbending area or too small bending radius, the material of the flexible part may be damaged by excessive stress, resulting in an open circuit.
Environmental factors: Under different environmental conditions, it may be affected by factors such as temperature, humidity, and chemicals. Long-term use in harsh environments may cause material aging or corrosion, resulting in an open circuit. ‌
Damage during assembly: During the assembly process, improper operation or external force may cause damage to the connecting wires or wires of the flexible part, resulting in an open circuit.

Application fields of rigid flex PCB

Automotive electronics: Rigid-flex boards are widely used in automotive electronic systems such as dashboards, navigation systems, and in-car entertainment systems in the automotive industry. Their flexibility and high reliability enable them to adapt to the complex spatial layout and vibration environment inside the car.
Medical equipment: In the field of medical equipment, rigid-flex boards also have important applications, such as medical monitoring equipment, medical imaging equipment, etc. Its flexible part can adapt to different equipment shapes and size requirements, while having stable circuit connection performance.
Aerospace field: Rigid-flex boards are usually used in aircraft dashboards, navigation systems, communication equipment, etc. in the aerospace field. Due to their light, thin and flexible characteristics, rigid-flex boards have become an ideal choice for aerospace equipment.
Smart wearable devices: With the rapid development of smart wearable devices, rigid-flex boards are widely used in products such as smart watches and health monitoring equipment. They can be combined with curved display screens, sensors and other components to achieve a more humanized design.
Industrial control field: In the field of industrial automation control, rigid-flex boards are often used in PLC controllers, robot control systems, sensor interfaces, etc. Its flexibility and reliability ensure the stable operation of the equipment in harsh environments.

Rigid flex pcb manufacturer

rigid flex pcb.rigid-flex printed circuit board，Rigid flex circuit are a hybrid construction flex circuit consisting of rigid and flexible substrates which are laminated together into a single structure. Each layer of rigid-flex circuit are electrically interconnected by plated through holes (PTH), which is different from a flexible circuit with FR4/PI stiffener on top or bottom of flex circuit only by the means of presensive or thermal senstive adhesive only, no PTH.

Multilayer circuitry-from 3 to 14+ layers
Min LW/LS: 4mil/4mil
Adhesive-based and adhesiveless constructions, including thermoplastic and thermoset stiffener attachment.
Polyimide substrates: 1/2mil – 4mil
Copper: 1/3OZ – 2OZ, RA or ED type
Stiffeners include Polyimide (0.075-0.20mm), FR4 (0.15-2.0mm), and punched or formed metal parts (0.075-1.0mm)
Low-cost, conventional fabrication and lamination completed with PTH based plating
Screened inks, photo-imageable soldermasks, or laminated coverlay dielectrics
Surface finishes: ENIG, electroplated nickel/gold, immersion silver, tin,
EMI Shielding

how to design flex rigid pcb?

Rigid-Flex Circuit Design Guidelines

To form a rigid-flex, follow these considerations to ensure the best results.

Considerations When Designing Rigid-Flex Circuits

To produce a rigid-flex PCB with unmatched quality and functionality, you must follow the correct manufacturing specifications. This is the set guidelines and standards that manufacturers must consider when designing and manufacturing flexible circuit boards.

Determine Manufacturing Process and Materials Beforehand

Depending on the flexibility you require, you need to decide beforehand what materials to use and the methods to use. Example; When the board you are designing only needs to be folded during manufacturing and thereafter be in a fixed position without bending, you can decide the following

Copper type and grade
Manufacturing method
Number of layers to be used.

On the other hand, if the board is for an application with frequent movement, vibration, and impact, you must be clear in choosing the following:

Copper Coils
Adhesives and
Number of Layers

Place Copper Traces at Right Angles to Rigid-Flex

Copperworks is a great fit when placed on the right edge of the board. Avoid bending copper traces at corners as it will pull stress and may not create the best bend. For PCB flex that requires bending, use sharp radius bends to avoid smudging copper traces.

Provide adequate pad support for exposed copper

Repetitive stress from frequent bending can cause copper on the circuit to break away from the polyimide substrate. Support exposed copper with pads to prevent separation.

Use hatched polygons

Hatched polygons instead of solidified copper help maintain the flexibility of flexible PCBs.

Leave at least 1/2mm gap between copper ring and adjacent vias

1/2mm helps avoid fatigue caused by frequent bending. Placing vias in fixed areas of the board helps avoid frequent movement and bending, resulting in the best rigid-flex.

Tags:PCB, PCBA
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Design Guide, FAQ, FR4 PCB, Our News, PCB News, PCBA, RF Board | No Comments »

hs code printed circuit board,pcb boards hs code

Friday, August 9th, 2024

The customs code for printed circuit boards is 8534-0000. 8534 is the classification code for this item, and 0000 represents the sub-classification code under this item. In the actual customs declaration process, it is necessary to select the corresponding sub-classification code according to the specific classification standard of printed circuit boards.

hs code printed circuit board：85340000
PCBs made of FR-4 material (i.e. silicon tetrachloride fiberglass board) are classified under HS code 8534.00.00
hs code printed circuits with more than six layers：85340010
hs code printed circuits with four layers or less:85340090
The HS code for PCB (printed circuit board) is 8534001000.
HS code of PCBA is 8543709990

How do you classify printed circuit boards?

According to different classification standards, printed circuit boards can be divided into many types, such as single-sided boards, double-sided boards, multi-layer boards, rigid boards, flexible boards, etc.

The role of HS codes for printed circuit boards

HS codes are a way for customs to classify goods, and are also an important basis for import and export statistics. As an electronic component, printed circuit boards also need to be HS coded so that customs can accurately classify and manage them.

Types of HS codes for printed circuit boards

There are two main HS codes for printed circuit boards: 85340010 and 85340090. Among them, 85340010 is mainly used for printed circuits with more than six layers, while 85340090 is mainly used for printed circuits with four layers or less. The difference between the two codes lies in the number of layers of the printed circuit board, because printed circuits with more than six layers require higher technical requirements and more complex production processes.

How to choose the correct HS code

The specific HS code may vary depending on product specifications, materials and other factors. Therefore, in actual operation, it is recommended to consult relevant departments or professionals according to the specific situation to ensure accuracy. If you are not sure which HS code to choose, you can consult the printed circuit board manufacturer or relevant industry associations for more professional advice.

How do I do a customs declaration?

Declare the code accurately. Select the sub-classification number corresponding to the printed circuit board according to the actual situation to avoid penalties or detention caused by coding errors.
Provide a complete production process. The production process of the printed circuit board needs to be provided in the customs declaration, including the procurement, production, processing, testing and other links of the materials, so as to facilitate the customs inspection of the printed circuit board.
Declare accurate materials and technical parameters. The technical parameters such as the substrate, copper foil thickness, board thickness, drilling diameter, line width, line spacing, etc. used in the printed circuit board need to be accurately declared in the customs declaration.
Re-declaration is required if the dominant production process is changed. If the dominant production process is changed, it is necessary to re-declare to the customs and re-make the customs declaration.
Comply with relevant national quality standards. Printed circuit boards need to meet relevant national quality standards, such as ISO, UL, etc.

hs code electronic,How do I find an HS code?The HS code for PCB (printed circuit board) is 8534001000. PCBs made of FR-4 material (i.e. silicon tetrachloride fiberglass board) are classified under HS code 8534.00.00

Tags:HS CODE
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FR4 PCB, PCB News, PCBA | No Comments »

What is Tda7294 amplifier board &tda7294 datasheet

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

TDA7294 is a class AB monolithic audio amplifier integrated circuit launched by SGS-THOMSON Microelectronics in the 1990s. It swept away the raw, cold and hard sound of previous linear integrated amplifiers and thick film integrated amplifiers, and is widely used in HiFi fields, such as home theaters, active speakers, high-performance TVs and other fields.

TDA7294

The chip adopts a 15-pin dual-row asymmetric plug-in package, the differential input stage is composed of bipolar transistors, and the driver stage and power output stage use DMOS field-effect transistor semiconductor technology. This hybrid semiconductor manufacturing process allows TDA7294 to take into account the advantages of bipolar signal processing circuits and MOS power tubes, and the playback sound is very friendly (it is praised by audiophiles as a “tube-flavored amplifier”); the built-in silent standby function, short-circuit current and overheating protection functions make its performance more perfect. It can be used in HiFi home audio, active audio, high-performance TVs and other fields.

Tda7294 amplifier board

tda7294 amplifier board PCBA

This circuit is an official standard circuit, stable and reliable.
The filter uses a large electrolytic capacitor with a withstand voltage of 50V and a capacity of 2200uf.
Power supply voltage: dual 12-36V ring transformer, dual 32V ring transformer is recommended
Output power: 85W*1 undistorted rated power, peak power 100W
Can easily drive speakers above 100W, speaker impedance: 4-8 ohms
PCB size: 50*50mm

Basic parameters:
Power supply: dual 18-28V AC
Power: 2X80W+160W subwoofer
Circuit board size: 218x98MM
Potentiometer function: low frequency frequency adjustment, subwoofer volume. Left and right channel volume, treble, bass.

Adopting the new laser dark word TDA7294
The power filter uses 6 63V3300UF capacitors, and the rectifier uses a 25A imported rectifier flat bridge.
PCB uses 1.6mm thick double-sided board, 2.0 ounces copper thickness, and full tin spraying process to ensure good passing performance of large and small currents.
Fever component assembly, the subwoofer part consists of two new TDA7294 BTL output,
The low-pass filter is designed according to the frequency adjustable design of home theater style (50-150HZ), with strong power!
The left and right channels are served by two TDA7294 respectively, and the input coupling capacitor uses the German imported WIMA 2.2UF coupling capacitor, which makes the sound sweeter!
The signal-to-noise ratio of the board is also very high, and even if you put your ear close to the speaker, you can’t hear the AC noise! It is the best choice for upgrading 2.1 amplifiers!

TDA7294 datasheet

TDA7294 Main Features

Wide supply voltage range: ±10V ~±40V
High output power: 70W (up to 100W)
Standby and mute functions
Noiseless ON/OFF switch
Low noise and low distortion
Short circuit protection and overheat protection

TDA7294

Pin function
Pin 1 is the standby terminal;
Pin 2 is the inverting input terminal;
Pin 3 is the positive input terminal;
Pin 4 is grounded;
Pins 5, 11, and 12 are empty pins;
Pin 6 is the bootstrap terminal;
Pin 7 is +Vs (signal processing part);
Pin 8 is -Vs (signal processing part);
Pin 9 is the standby pin;
Pin 10 is the mute pin;
Pin 13 is +Vs (final stage);
Pin 14 is the output terminal;
Pin 15 is -Vs (final stage)

DIY Production

1) The first step is to get the PCB. Here you can make the PCB yourself by DIY ironing method. Since the PCB is easy to make, the PCB design is kept single layer only, or you can get ready-made quality PCB from best.or custom tda7294 amplifier board.
2) After the PCB is completed, carefully mount all small components like jumpers, resistors, diodes, etc. to the PCB and trim their terminals, then solder them to the PCB first, because there are many components on this board, so it is better to solder them one by one
3) After installing the small components, install the large components like capacitors, fuse holders, rectifiers to the PCB and solder them. (Don’t install the power filter capacitor, 22000uF capacitor for now. Completed in the following steps)
4) After that, it’s time to mount all 7 ICs to the PCB and solder them.
5) Now properly mount the heat sink on the IC using insulating MICA and insulating plastic shoulder washers. Remember to use good quality thermal paste between the heat sink and IC.
6) After mounting the IC on the heat sink. Check the continuity between the heat sink and the IC back plate using a multimeter. There should not be any continuity between them. Please note the heat sink isolation
7) Now mount the cooling fan to the PCB using cable ties or any other suitable method.
The board assembly is now complete. Clean the track side of the board using IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) or cleaning flux and then power the board using a 20-0-20 VAC transformer or a 24-0-24 VAC transformer.

Which one has better sound quality, TDA7294 or LM3886? Voltage AC 28v

LM3886 has better bass because its maximum current can reach 10A, which means it can drive a 2-ohm box without any problems. From the parameters alone, LM3886 is worse than 7294. And it is true in practice, especially for bass. If the transformer is OK, it feels very powerful. 7294 is not as good as 3886 in bass. The current is large when it comes to bass. 7294 itself has overcurrent protection. When the current reaches a certain level, it starts to limit the output current. However, 7294 is better in treble.

Tags:PCB, PCBA, SMT
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FR4 PCB, PCB News, PCBA | No Comments »

How Much Does A PCB Board Cost?

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024

When communicate with clients, they always ask why the PCB board are so expensive? Is there any basis for that? Actually, the price of PCBs are made specifically according to its manufacturing process, layers, complexities and so on. Today, Best Technology is deeply sharing the composition of PCB cost. Welcome to keep reading.

Why is PCB Board So Expensive?

The cost of a PCB can sometimes seem high due to several reasons. Firstly, the complexity of the design plays a significant role. High-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs, multi-layer PCBs, and those requiring advanced materials or special finishes can drive up the cost. Additionally, stringent quality control measures and the need for precise manufacturing processes add to the expense.

Another factor is the cost of raw materials. Copper, laminates, and specialty substrates can vary in price, affecting the overall cost of the PCB. Furthermore, labor costs in the region where the PCB is manufactured, along with overhead costs such as utilities and facility maintenance, contribute to the final price.

What Factors Affect the PCB Board Cost?

PCB board can cost from $10 to $500 to produce. Buyers are always amazing that why PCB cost so high? But they don’t know there are numerous factors a manufacturer considers in determining PCB costs. If you are in the market to design a PCB, this guide provides factors to consider that could increase or decrease the cost of circuit boards.

Manufacture technology

The specific technology used in the PCB can significantly impact the cost. Advanced technologies such as HDI (High-Density Interconnect), embedded busbar or flexible PCBs often require more complex manufacturing processes, which can increase the cost.

Material Type

The type of materials used for the PCB, such as standard FR4, high-frequency laminates, or other specialty substrates, can influence the cost. Higher quality or specialized materials typically cost more.

IPC Grade

The IPC standards and grades indicate the quality and reliability requirements of the PCB. In electronics manufacturing, printed circuit boards are divided into three levels: level 1, level 2 and level 3. These grades reflect the quality level of each board type, from the lowest (Level 1 standard) to the highest (Level 3 standard). This classification system was developed and defined by IPC and is specified in the IPC-6011 series.

Circuit Design

The complexity of the circuit design, including the number of layers, trace width, and spacing, affects the cost. More intricate designs require more precision and advanced techniques, leading to increased expenses.

PCB Size & Yield

The physical dimensions of the PCB and the yield rate during production play a role in the overall cost. Larger boards or designs with lower yield rates (more defects) will typically cost more to produce.

Material Thickness

The thickness of the materials used in the PCB construction, such as the substrate and copper layers, can impact the cost. Thicker materials may be more expensive and require more resources to process.

Copper Thickness

The thickness of the copper used in the PCB, measured in ounces per square foot, can affect the cost. Thicker copper layers provide better electrical performance but are more expensive.

Stack-up

The method of layering and stacking the materials in the PCB, known as the stack-up configuration, can influence the cost. Complex stack-ups with multiple layers and specific arrangements can be more costly to manufacture. Read our another post of How Can I Reduce and Optimize the Cost of My PCB in A Best Way?

Manufacturing Process of A Standard PCB

PCB Design and Layout

The manufacturing process begins with the design phase, where engineers use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to create the PCB layout. This includes defining the circuit paths, components, and layers, ensuring the design meets the electrical and mechanical requirements.

Once the design is finalized, a photomask is created, which is a transparent film with the PCB design printed on it. The PCB substrate, typically made of FR4, is then coated with a light-sensitive material called photoresist.

Drilling

Precise holes are drilled into the board for through-hole components and vias using computer-controlled drilling machines. The board is cleaned and deburred to remove any rough edges or debris from the drilling process.

Plating and Copper Deposition

A thin layer of copper is deposited on the surface of the board and inside the drilled holes through an electroless plating process, providing a conductive base. Additional copper is electroplated onto the board, building up the thickness of the copper traces and plated through-holes.

Pattern Transfer

The photomask is placed over the photoresist-coated substrate and exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light hardens the photoresist where the design allows light to pass through, and the board is then developed to wash away the unhardened photoresist, leaving behind the desired circuit pattern.

Etching

The PCB undergoes an etching process using a chemical solution to remove unwanted copper, leaving only the copper traces that form the circuits. The remaining hardened photoresist is then stripped away to reveal the clean copper pattern.

Applying Solder Mask

A layer of solder mask is applied to the board to protect the copper traces from oxidation and prevent solder bridges during assembly. The solder mask is cured using UV light, hardening it and making it durable.

Surface Finish/Surface Treatment

A surface finish is applied to the exposed copper areas to protect them and facilitate soldering. Common finishes include HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling), ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold), and OSP (Organic Solderability Preservatives).

Outline Routing

One the surface treatment finish, it will be routed according to the manufacturing file by CNC machine. And then individual PCBs are cut from the larger panel using routing or V-scoring, depending on the board design and requirements.

Electrical Testing & FQC

The PCB undergoes electrical testing to check for short circuits, open circuits, and other defects. This is typically done using a flying probe tester or a bed-of-nails tester. Then the board is visually inspected for any cosmetic defects or anomalies, and further tests and inspections are performed to ensure the PCB meets all specified requirements and standards. Below you can see the full manufacturing process video of a PCB:

Best Technology – A 18+ Years Experience PCB Manufacturer

When you are looking for a reliable PCB manufacturer, considering Best Technology. We have transparent price and 5years quality warranty. We 24/7 hours online and welcome all the technical questions and PCB inquiries. Contact us for more!

Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FAQ, FR4 PCB, HDI PCB, PCB News, PCB Technology | No Comments »

How to Check PCB with a Multimeter?

Monday, August 5th, 2024

Common PCB failures are mainly concentrated on components such as capacitors, resistors, inductors, diodes, transistors, MOSFETs, integrated chips (IC), and crystals. Some obvious damages can be visually detected, while others require the use of tools. Today, let’s learn how to troubleshoot PCB faults using a multimeter.

How Will You Diagnose a Faulty PCB By Visually?

For some printed circuit boards, we can check by our naked eyes. Here are some common ways to follow:

1. Check the condition of components

When you get a faulty PCB, first observe if there are any obvious component damages, such as burnt or swollen electrolytic capacitors, burnt resistors, and damaged power devices.

2. Inspect the soldering of the PCB

Check if the printed circuit board (PCB) is deformed or warped; if there are any loose or poorly soldered joints; if the copper cladding on the PCB is lifted, burnt, or blackened.

3. Examine the component plug-ins

Ensure the correct orientation of integrated circuits, diodes, and the PCB power transformer.

How to Check PCB with a Multimeter?

Before you start testing your PCB, ensure you have the right tools and environment. Here’s a checklist to get you started:

1. Safety First: Wear anti-static gloves and ensure you are working on an anti-static mat to prevent damage to the PCB.

2. Multimeter Selection: Choose a multimeter with the ability to measure voltage, resistance, and continuity. A digital multimeter is preferred for accuracy.

3. Visual Inspection: Examine the PCB for visible signs of damage such as burnt components, broken traces, or solder bridges.

4. Power Off the Board: Always test the PCB with the power off to avoid any electrical hazards and damage to the multimeter.

How Do You Test Individual Components on a PCB?

Testing individual components like resistors, capacitors, and diodes can pinpoint the exact failure. Here’s a general approach:

Diode
Transistor
MOSFET
Electrolytic Capacitors

How to Test Diodes?

1. Set the MF47-type multimeter to measure resistance.

2. Place the red and black probes on the two ends of the diode and read the value.

3. Swap the probes and measure again.

4. Judge based on the two measurements: the forward resistance of small power germanium diodes is 300-500Ω, silicon diodes are about 1kΩ or larger. The reverse resistance of germanium diodes is tens of kilo-ohms, and silicon diodes are above 500kΩ (values are much smaller for high-power diodes). A good diode has low forward resistance and high reverse resistance, and the larger the difference, the better.

5. If both forward and reverse resistances are very low, the diode is short-circuited; if both are very high or infinite, the diode is open-circuited and needs to be discarded.

How to Test Transistors?

1. Set the digital multimeter to the diode mode.

2. Measure the PN junction with the probes. If it conducts forward, the displayed value is the forward voltage drop of the PN junction.

3. Determine the collector and emitter: measure the forward voltage drop of the two PN junctions, the larger drop is the emitter (e), and the smaller drop is the collector (c). If the red probe is connected to the common terminal, the transistor is NPN type, and the common terminal is the base (b); if the black probe is connected to the common terminal, the transistor is PNP type, and the common terminal is the base (b).

4. For in-circuit testing, measure the forward and reverse resistance of the PN junction to determine if the transistor is damaged. If the branch resistance is larger than the forward resistance of the PN junction, there should be a clear difference between the forward and reverse resistances, otherwise, the PN junction is damaged.

The Way to Test MOSFETs?

1. Connect the black probe to the drain (D) and the red probe to the source (S), the resistance should be 500-600.

2. Without moving the black probe, touch the gate (G) with the red probe, then measure the source (S) again; it should conduct.

3. Connect the red probe to the drain (D), touch the gate (G) with the black probe, then measure the source (S); the resistance should be the same as the first measurement, indicating the MOSFET is working normally.

How to Test Electrolytic Capacitors?

1. Select the appropriate range on the MF47-type multimeter based on the capacitor’s capacity. Use R×1K range for capacitors below 47μF, and R×100 range for those above 47μF.

2. Connect the red probe to the negative lead and the black probe to the positive lead of the capacitor.

3. On initial contact, the multimeter needle will deflect right and then gradually return to the left until it stops at a certain position (close to infinity). This value is the capacitor’s forward leakage resistance; the larger the value, the better the capacitor’s performance.

4. Swap the probes and repeat the process. The measured value will be the reverse leakage resistance, slightly smaller than the forward leakage resistance.

5. If no charging phenomenon occurs (the needle doesn’t move), the capacitor is either open or short-circuited internally. If the resistance is very small or zero, the capacitor is leaky or has broken down and cannot be used.

This is the end of this article, if you want to know more about it, welcome to contact us.

Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FAQ, FR4 PCB, PCB News, PCB Technology, PCBA | No Comments »

What is Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB?

Saturday, August 3rd, 2024

As electronic devices become increasingly miniaturized and high-performance, traditional circuit boards are no longer sufficient for certain high-demand applications. To address these challenges, the Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB has emerged. This innovative composite circuit board combines the efficient heat dissipation characteristics of thermal-electric separation copper substrates with the flexibility of flexible PCBs (FPC). It is widely use for high-performance electronic products, which requires efficient heat dissipation and complex circuit.

What is Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB?

The Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB is a composite material that combines a rigid thermal-electric separation copper substrate with a flexible circuit board. It integrates the advantages of both, providing superior performance in high-power and high-density applications.

1. Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate

The thermal-electric separation copper substrate is designed for high-power electronic devices, providing an efficient heat dissipation solution. It separates the paths of heat and electrical signals to avoid thermal interference with electrical performance. Its structure typically includes:

Single-sided design: Electronic components are placed on one side of the copper substrate, while the other side is used for heat dissipation.
High thermal conductivity materials: Such as copper or aluminum, which can quickly conduct heat, like copper is 400W/m.k, aluminum is 237W/m.k.
Thermal vias: Vertical heat conduction paths that rapidly transfer heat to the dissipation layer.

2. Flexible PCB (FPC)

Flexible PCBs (Flexible Printed Circuits, FPC) use flexible materials like polyimide (PI) or polyester (PET) that can bend and fold to adapt to complex three-dimensional structures and dynamic application scenarios. Their advantages include:

Lightweight: Reducing the overall weight of the device.
High-density wiring: Achieving complex circuit designs in limited space.
Flexibility: Meeting diverse design needs.

Structure and Characteristics

The structure of the Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB includes rigid and flexible parts, connected together using conductive adhesives or other bonding materials to form a unified whole.

1. Rigid Part

The rigid part uses the thermal-electric separation copper substrate, responsible for efficient heat dissipation and mechanical support. This part usually carries high-power components to ensure rapid heat transfer and dissipation.

2. Flexible Part

The flexible part uses the flexible PCB, which can bend and fold to fit the complex internal structure of devices. This part is typically used to connect the rigid part with other modules that require flexible connections.

3. Bonding Method

The flexible and rigid parts are bonded together using conductive adhesives, welding, or mechanical connections. The design of the bonding area ensures stable electrical connections and reliability during bending and dynamic use.

Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB Advantages

1. Efficient Heat Dissipation

The thermal-electric separation copper substrate provides excellent heat dissipation, effectively conducting away the heat generated by high-power components to maintain a reasonable operating temperature range. This is especially important for applications like high-power LEDs and power semiconductor devices.

2. Flexibility

The use of the flexible PCB offers great design freedom, allowing adaptation to the complex three-dimensional structures and dynamic application needs within devices. This enables designers to achieve more complex circuit designs in limited spaces, increasing device integration and functionality.

3. Reliability

The thermal-electric separation design and high thermal conductivity materials enhance the reliability of the circuit board, reducing the impact of heat on electrical performance. The flexible part reduces the number of connection points, lowering the risk of failure.

4. Space Saving

Combining the advantages of rigid and flexible circuit boards allows for efficient heat dissipation and complex circuit in limited space. This is crucial for modern miniaturized and high-density electronic product designs.

Where Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB used?

1. High-Power LED Lighting

High-power LEDs generate a significant amount of heat during operation. The thermal-electric separation copper substrate provides an efficient heat dissipation solution, ensuring the stable operation and long lifespan of LEDs. The flexible part is used to connect different LED modules, accommodating diverse design requirements.

2. Automotive Electronics

In automotive electronics, such as in-vehicle cameras and sensor modules, efficient heat dissipation and compact design are required. The thermal-electric separation copper substrate with flexible PCB can meet these demands, enhancing device reliability and performance.

3. Consumer Electronics

Devices like smartphones and tablets require lightweight and miniaturized designs. The thermal-electric separation copper substrate with flexible PCB offers efficient heat dissipation and flexible circuit, optimizing device performance and user experience.

4. Medical Devices

In applications that require flexibility and reliability, such as portable diagnostic equipment and implantable medical devices, the thermal-electric separation copper substrate with flexible PCB can help to enhancing device performance and reliability.

How does Thermal-Electric Separation Copper Substrate with Flexible PCB manufactured?

The manufacturing process for the thermal-electric separation copper substrate with flexible PCB is complex, typically including the following steps:

Material Preparation: Selecting appropriate rigid and flexible materials and performing pre-treatment.
Circuit Printing: Printing circuit patterns on both rigid and flexible materials.
Lamination and Bonding: Combining the flexible circuit board with the thermal-electric separation copper substrate, usually using conductive adhesives or other bonding materials.
Drilling and Plating: Drilling holes and electroplating to form conductive paths on the combined board.
Surface Treatment: Performing surface treatments such as pad coating on the circuit board.
Testing and Inspection: Conducting electrical and mechanical performance tests to ensure the quality and reliability of the board.

The thermal-electric separation copper substrate with flexible PCB, as an innovative composite circuit board, combines the advantages of efficient heat dissipation and flexible wiring. It is widely used in high-performance and complex design electronic products. With continuous technological advancements and growing market demand, this composite circuit board will play an important role in more fields, driving the ongoing innovation of electronic manufacturing technology. Want know more about it, just feel your free to contact us.

Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FAQ, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB News, PCB Technology, Special PCB | No Comments »

How to Test a PCB Board? – Best Technology

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

Nowadays, PCBs became more and more important and you can see it in every electronic device. The PCB plays a critical role in our daily life. With circuit board, the device can power on and help to transmit signals, manage heat and perform electricity. A good PCB can help to improve the overall of your device. However, not all the PCBs are work good and within your expectable, you must know how to test it and ensure it enables a good performance. As an experienced PCB manufacturers in Asia, today we want to share with you how we test a PCB, and we try to use simple words to make you sense.

What is a printed circuit board?

Before knowing the methods of testing circuit board, let’s understand the definition of PCB. A PCB is a flat board made from insulating materials like fiber glasses with conductive pathways etched onto its surface. The pathways we called circuit or traces. These pathways connect different electronic components, so that they can communicate and function together. PCBs come in various materials, shapes and sizes, which always is customized to meet specific applications and performance requirements.

PCBs can be divided into different types according to substrate material used. They are – normal FR4 PCB, polyimide flexible PCB, metal core PCB, ceramic PCB, rogers PCB. Different has its own properties and advantages. The choice of materials and the design of the PCB significantly impact the performance and reliability of the final product. Understanding the materials used in PCBs is crucial for anyone involved in electronics, from hobbyists to professional engineers/designers.

Common PCB Circuit Board Issues

Though PCB has a strong construction, they are easy to be broken or failure since they always encounter a range of issues. These problems can stem from manufacturing defects, wear and tear, or improper handling. Identifying and diagnosing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the reliability and performance of electronic devices. Common issues we faced are including:

Open Circuits: These occur when a break in the circuits prevents current flow normally. Open circuits can result from physical damage or manufacturing errors.

Short Circuits: Due to improper soldering, unreasonable circuit design and other reasons, resulting in a short circuit between two or more points in the circuit that should not be connected. This can cause excessive current flow, potentially damaging components.

Grounding: The unreasonable design of ground area leads to interference signals on the grounding, which affects the normal operation of the circuit.

Signal: The signal circuit design is not reasonable, resulting in interference signals on the signal.

Component Failures: Individual components on a PCB can fail due to aging, overheating, or electrical stress breakdown. And incorrect orientation will lead to the failure of PCB.

Soldering Issues: Poor soldering can lead to weak connections, causing intermittent faults or complete circuit failure. This including the dents in the solder joints, this also can make the PCB failure.

Corrosion: PCB exposure to moisture and contaminants for a long time can cause corrosion, degrading the conductive pathways and component leads.

How to check a PCB?

In generally, there are four common ways to check whether if your PCB are good or failure.

1. Visual inspection

The easiest way is visual inspection. Through naked eye observation, check whether the solder joint on the PCB circuit board is firm, whether there is short circuit, open circuit and other phenomena. And look for burnt components, discolored areas, or broken traces, such as somewhere became black or be burned obviously. These are clear indicators of damage.

2. Use a multimeter

Multimeter is a common tool used for measuring PCB. Multimeter is versatility and it has multiplied modes. Select the appropriate mode on the multimeter, such as continuity, voltage, or resistance mode, depending on what you are testing. Before testing, make sure probes are in good condition and properly connected to the multimeter, with the red probe typically being positive and the black probe negative or ground. Click here to read What is the PCB flying probe test?

3. E-tester

E-tester is a good way to test short or open circuit when it is a mass production. If you just want to test one piece PCB, multimeter is much better.

4. Use oscilloscope

An oscilloscope is a powerful diagnostic tool used to observe the waveform of electrical signals in a circuit. Connect the oscilloscope probes to the test points on the PCB, it can capture the waveform. By observing the waveform, determine whether the circuit is working normally.

5. Use a thermal imager

A thermal imager also is a effective way to check the condition of PCB. It can capture the temperature distribution on the PCB. It helps identify areas with excessive heat, which can indicate potential issues.

How to Test a Circuit Board with a Multimeter Effectively?

Testing a circuit board with a multimeter is essential for diagnosing and fixing electronic issues. A multimeter can measure voltage, current, and resistance, helping you identify problems with the PCB. The main way to test a PCB with a multimeter is to measure voltage, ‌ resistance, and ground. ‌

Measuring voltage

By measuring the voltage on the circuit board, ‌ can quickly test whether the circuit is working properly. Use the voltage gear of the multimeter, ‌ select the appropriate range, ‌ then measure the input and output of the power supply on the circuit board respectively, ‌ to check whether the voltage is within the normal range. If the voltage is abnormal, ‌ may indicate that the circuit is open or short. ‌

Measuring resistance value

By measuring the resistance value on the circuit board, can detect whether the circuit is smooth. Use the resistance level of the multimeter, select the appropriate range, then measure the key nodes on the circuit board, check whether the resistance value is within the normal range. If the resistance value is abnormal, may indicate that the circuit is open or short. ‌

Check the grounding

Grounding is critical to the proper operation of the circuit board. Use the multimeter’s ground test function, to check that key points on the board are properly grounded, ‌ this helps to spot potential electrical connection problems. ‌

In addition, for industrial-grade PCB measurement, the use of higher-precision multimeters and special pens can improve the accuracy and efficiency of the measurement. ‌ For example, the ‌ Fluke 17B Max multimeter is equipped with an extra-pointed stylus, enables more accurate measurement of patch components and pins, and ‌ improves measurement fineness and accuracy.

Generally speaking, using a multimeter to test the PCB board needs to master the correct measurement methods and skills. At the same time according to the complexity of the circuit board to choose the appropriate measurement tools, to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the test.

How to Tell if a Circuit Board is Bad?

Identifying a bad circuit board requires a combination of visual inspection and multimeter testing. Here are some signs and methods to determine if a PCB is faulty:

Visual Signs

Look for burnt components, discolored areas, or broken traces, such as somewhere became black or be burned obviously. These are clear indicators of damage.

Component Testing

Use the multimeter to test individual components. A component that doesn’t show the expected resistance or voltage is likely faulty.

Continuity Testin

Check for open circuits. Lack of continuity in a path indicates a broken trace or solder joint.

Short Circuit Detection

Identify any unintended connections between different paths. This can be done by checking for continuity where there should be none.

Functionality Testing

Test the circuit board in its intended application. If the device does not function correctly, there may be an issue with the PCB.

Why Choose Best Technology?

By reading this post, you may know how to test a PCB by multimeter already and other methods to identify them. Best Technology has engaging in the PCB manufacturing for more than 18 years, we have served over 2000+ customers all around the world. We have strong R&D team and equipped with advanced equipment to improve the yield and product quality.

At Best Technology, we provide various PCB manufacturing, including metal core PCBs, ceramic PCBs, rigid-flex PCBs and some other special PCBs like HDI PCB, busbar PCB, heavy copper PCB. If you have similiar projects, you are welcome to contact us.

Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, Ceramic PCB, FAQ, FR4 PCB, HDI PCB, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB News, PCB Technology | No Comments »

What is a heavy copper PCB?

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

Heavy Copper Board does not have a set of definition per IPC. According to PCB industry, however, peopel generally use this name to identify a printed circuit board with copper conductors 3 oz/ft2 – 10 oz/ft2 in inner and/or outer layers. And Extreme heavy copper PCB refers to 20 oz/ft2 to 200 oz/ft2 printed circuit board.

Heavy copper normally used for a various products but not limited to: high power distribution, heat dissipation, planar transformers, power convertors, and so on.

Generally, the thick copper plate is about 3oz, and the larger current is 3oz~6oz. To achieve 15 ounces, the requirements for process and manufacturers are more stringent. Best provides 3-15oz 1-99 layers of PCB. It is a professional PCB manufacturer with 18 years of experience, providing one-stop PCB and PCBA services from design, manufacturing to after-sales.

Common copper foil thicknesses have the following options:

1 oz (35 μm): This is the most common and standard copper foil thickness, widely used in general electronic product manufacturing. It has good electrical and thermal conductivity.
2 oz (70 μm): This thickness of copper foil is usually used in circuits that require higher current carrying capacity, such as power amplifiers, high-power LEDs, etc.
0.5 oz (18 μm): This thinner copper foil thickness is suitable for some light and small electronic products, such as electronic watches, mobile phones, etc.
Other thicknesses: According to special needs, you can also choose copper foil of other thicknesses, such as 3 oz, 4 oz, etc.

What is copper foil

Copper foil is a cathodic electrolytic material, a thin, continuous metal foil deposited on the substrate layer of the circuit board, which serves as the conductor of the PCB. It is easy to adhere to the insulating layer, accept the printed protective layer, and form a circuit pattern after corrosion. The copper mirror test is a flux corrosion test, using a vacuum precipitation film on a glass plate. Copper foil is made of copper and a certain proportion of other metals. Copper foil generally has two types: 90 foil and 88 foil, that is, the copper content is 90% and 88%, and the size is 16*16cm.

How thick is the PCB copper foil

The commonly used international PCB copper foil thicknesses are: 35um, 50um, and 70um.
Generally, the thickness of copper foil (copper cladding) of single-sided and double-sided PCB boards is about 35um (1.4mil), and the other specifications are 50um and 70um.
The surface thickness of multilayer boards is generally 35um=1oz (1.4mil), and the inner layer is 17.5um (0.7mil). 70% of circuit boards use a copper foil thickness of 35um, which mainly depends on the purpose of the PCB and the voltage and current of the signal; in addition, for PCBs that need to pass large currents, some will use 70um copper thickness, 105um copper thickness, and rarely 140um, etc. The copper foil thickness is usually expressed in oz (ounces). 1oz refers to the thickness of 1oz of copper evenly covering an area of 1 square foot, which is about 1.4mil. It uses the weight per unit area to express the average thickness of the copper foil.
Expressed in formula, that is, 1oz=28.35g/ FT2 (FT2 is square feet, 1 square foot = 0.09290304 square meters).

Different uses have different copper foil thicknesses,

Ordinary 0.5oz, 1oz
2oz, mostly used in consumer and communication products.
Thick copper products above
3oz are mostly used for large currents, such as high-voltage products and power boards!

Copper foil thickness (track width) affects the current size. Although there is a formula that can directly calculate the current load capacity of copper foil, it is not so simple when actually designing the circuit. Therefore, safety should be fully considered when designing.

How thick is 2 oz of copper for PCB?

In the PCB industry, 1OZ means the thickness of 1OZ of copper evenly laid on an area of 1 square foot (FT2). It uses the weight per unit area to express the average thickness of the copper foil. Expressed in formula, 1OZ=28.35g/FT2 (FT2 is square feet, 1 square foot=0.09290304 square meters).
First, we know that the density constant of copper and the conversion formula of related units are as follows:
1 cm = 10 mm; 1 mm = 1000 um
1 FT2≈929.0304cm2
According to the mass calculation formula m=ρ×V(volume)=ρ×S(area)×t(thickness), we know that the weight of copper foil divided by the density and area of copper is the thickness of copper foil!
So, t=28.35÷929.0304÷8.9cm≈0.0034287cm=34.287um≈34.287÷25.4mil≈1.35mil
Copper thickness 1.OZ(0.035mm) Copper thickness 1.5OZ(0.05mm) Copper thickness 2.OZ (0.07mm)

What are the materials of PCB board

FR-1——phenolic cotton paper, this base material is commonly known as bakelite (more economical than FR-2)
FR-2——phenolic cotton paper
FR-3——cotton paper, epoxy resin
FR-4——glass cloth, epoxy resin
FR-5——glass cloth, epoxy resin
FR-6——matte glass, polyester
G-10——glass cloth, epoxy resin
CEM-1——cotton paper, epoxy resin (flame retardant)
CEM-2——cotton paper, epoxy resin (non-flame retardant)
CEM-3——glass cloth, epoxy resin
CEM-4——glass cloth, epoxy resin
CEM-5——glass cloth, polyester
AIN——aluminum nitride
SIC——silicon carbide

Tags:heavy copper pcb, PCB
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FR4 PCB, PCB News | No Comments »

led light circuit board

Friday, July 26th, 2024

The led light circuit board, also called the LED circuit board, is actually the abbreviation of the printed circuit board (PCB). PCB is a stable carrier of electronic components, which not only realizes electrical connection, but also plays a supporting role. In LED lamps, the PCB board integrates LED components, and through this integrated PCB board, the LED lamp can realize its function. The driving circuit of the LED lamp, such as constant voltage drive, constant current drive, PWM drive, etc., are all integrated on this small circuit board, which is necessary to light up the LED lamp beads. Therefore, it can be said that the circuit board of the LED lamp is the printed circuit board inside it, which is responsible for converting electrical energy into visible light, and controlling the brightness and performance of the LED through different driving methods.

Customized process of led light circuit board

Support small and medium batch orders of 1-14 layers, consult customer service for more layers;
Can do HDI blind buried hole process;
The board uses Jiantao A-grade board (KB-6164), which can be made into halogen-free board;
The maximum size can be one meter;
Various ink colors such as pink, transparent, purple, etc.;
Support copper thickness of 10oz, hole copper 35μm;
Multi-layer board can be customized with pressing structure;
Support multi-level impedance matching;
Board edge copper package, two-color ink, plug hole, countersunk hole, square groove, stepped hole, stepped groove, nickel palladium gold and other special processes;
PCBA can be pasted in one set, single and double sides can be pasted;

led light circuit board

What fields can led light circuit board be applied in?

PCB LED lamp has excellent energy efficiency, low cost and maximum design flexibility, so it can be incorporated into many lighting applications.

Telecommunications: LED indicators and displays are always used in telecommunications equipment due to the surrounding machinery, and they have great heat transfer capabilities. Therefore, aluminum-based LED PCBs play an important role in their applications.
Automotive: Aluminum PCB LEDs are also used in the indicator lights, brake lights, and headlights of automobiles, among other applications. There are factors that make aluminum PCBs ideal in the automotive industry, such as durability and competitive pricing.
Computers: LED displays and indicator lights are becoming increasingly popular in computer applications. Aluminum PCB LEDs are an ideal solution due to the heat sensitivity of computer machinery. In addition to LED applications, aluminum PCBs are also used in computer components such as power supply units and CPU boards due to their ability to dissipate and transfer heat.
Medical: Lighting tools used in surgical procedures and medical examinations often use high-power LED lights, which often use aluminum PCBs, mainly because of the durability and heat transfer capabilities of aluminum PCB LEDs – this ensures that medical equipment operates properly, regardless of the number of patients that are cycled through the medical office. In addition to lighting tools, medical scanning technology also often uses aluminum PCBs.

What fields can LED PCB be applied in?

Advantages of led light circuit board

Lower power consumption: Replacing incandescent lamps with LED lamps can reduce power consumption by more than 80%.

Longer life: The service life of LEDs can generally exceed 20,000 hours, and they can be used around the clock for 3 years, which is 25 times longer than incandescent lamps. Not only can it save costs, but it also reduces the frequency of replacement.

Higher efficiency: Incandescent lamps release more heat. LED lamps can reduce it by up to 20%. This means that while using more powerful LED lamps, unnecessary heating can be reduced.

Smaller size: Due to their small size, LED lamps can have various sizes and can be used in different places. Manufacturers can add LEDs to anything, whether it is electronic equipment or cars, and even traffic lights and signs on the road.

Environmental protection: Compared with other bulbs, LED lamps do not contain mercury. Therefore, LEDs have less impact on the environment and are easier to handle.

LED is the abbreviation of light-emitting diode, which is a semiconductor diode. LEDs are soldered to a printed circuit board and equipped with a chip that generates light through electrical connections. A heat sink and a ceramic base are used to connect the chip. Undoubtedly, LED PCB is the core of LED lighting. An LED PCB tends to generate a lot of heat, but it is difficult to cool it by traditional methods. Metal core PCB is widely used in LED applications due to its strong heat dissipation ability, especially aluminum is often used in the production of PCB for LED lamps. Usually, aluminum PCB contains a thin layer of thermal conductive medium material, which can transfer and dissipate heat much more efficiently than traditional rigid PCB.

Why led light circuit board use mcpcb

Aluminum substrate is a metal-based copper-clad board with good heat dissipation function. Generally, a single-sided board consists of three layers, namely circuit layer (copper foil), insulation layer and metal base layer. There are also designs for high-end use as double-sided boards, with the structure of circuit layer, insulation layer, aluminum base, insulation layer and circuit layer. Very few applications are multi-layer boards, which can be made of ordinary multi-layer boards with insulation layer and aluminum base.
LED aluminum substrate is PCB, which also means printed circuit board, but the material of the circuit board is aluminum alloy. In the past, our general circuit board material was glass fiber, but because LED generates more heat, the circuit board used for LED lamps is generally aluminum substrate, which can conduct heat quickly. The circuit boards used for other equipment or electrical appliances are still glass fiber boards!

How are LED patches installed on PCB boards?

Use double-sided PCB board, patch LED on the front, and drive power circuit on the back. LED can be designed into a circle shape, through metallized holes to the back, there are plenty of places to handle these leads
On the corresponding pads of PCB board, brush tin, use patch machine to apply it, and then reflow soldering, it is on, but in actual operation, you need to pay attention to many problems, anti-static, equipment quality, etc.

Tags:LED, LED aluminum pcb, LED circuit board, LED flexible PCB, LED light
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, mcpcb, Metal Core PCB, PCB News | No Comments »

What is a Zero PCB Board? – Best Technology

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

A zero PCB, also known as a prototype PCB or breadboard, is a type of circuit board used for building and testing prototypes. Unlike traditional PCBs, which have pre-defined paths for electric connections, zero PCBs offer a grid of holes. This grid allows for custom circuit designs using wires and components. Engineers and hobbyists use zero PCBs to experiment and develop new electronic circuits without committing to a specific design.

What is a zero PCB?

Zero PCBs are particularly helpful in testing circuit designs for any shortcomings. They provide a cost-efficient way to evaluate the circuitry before committing to a final solution. The term ‘zero’ in this context signifies a fundamental distinction. It implies that there are no predefined connections, layouts, or functions on the PCB.

Generally, there is no solder mask and silkscreen on the zero board. The primary purpose of a zero PCB is to offer a blank canvas for users to create and test custom circuits. As a result, they are intentionally kept simple in structure to allow for maximum customization. Users are free to design and solder their circuits and components directly onto the board without the constraints of a predefined layout or solder mask.

What is the use of a zero board?

Zero boards serve a variety of purposes in the electronics industry. They are particularly useful for prototyping and testing new circuit designs. Here are some common uses:

Prototyping
Educational purposes
Quick fixes
Small-scale production

Zero PCBs have a layer of copper traces or pads on the substrate. These copper elements provide the conductive pathways for soldering electronic components and forming connections. However, the copper traces on zero PCBs are usually unconnected, meaning there is no predefined circuit layout. You can build a circuit on them by inserting components into the holes and then connecting them with wires.

What is the cost of a zero PCB board?

The cost of zero PCB boards varies based on size, material, and supplier. Generally, they are quite cost-effective, so that both professional engineers and hobbyists can afford it. Prices can range from a few cents for small boards to several dollars for larger or more specialized versions. Bulk purchasing often reduces the cost per unit. Additionally, different materials, such as fiberglass or phenolic, can affect the price.

What size is a zero PCB board?

Zero PCB boards come in various sizes to accommodate different project needs. Common sizes include:

Small: Typically around 5×7 cm, ideal for simple projects.
Medium: Sizes like 10×15 cm offer more space for complex circuits.
Large: Boards as large as 30×30 cm are available for extensive projects.

The grid pattern usually remains consistent, with a standard pitch of 2.54 mm (0.1 inches) between holes, regardless of the board’s overall size.

What is a bare board?

A bare board, also known as a blank PCB, is a printed circuit board that has not yet been populated with any electronic components. It is essentially the foundation of a PCB, consisting only of the substrate material (such as fiberglass) and the copper traces that form the circuit pathways. A bare board typically include base core, prepreg and copper trace layer.

Features of a bare board

Substrate material

The base material of a bare board is usually fiberglass, FR4, or other insulating materials that provide mechanical support.

Copper traces

These are the conductive pathways etched onto the substrate. They form the circuit’s electrical connections but are not yet connected to any components.

Pads and holes

Bare boards include pads (flat areas of copper for soldering components) and drilled holes for through-hole components.

Pre-defined layout

The copper traces and pads are arranged according to a specific design, determined during the PCB design process.

No components

A bare board does not have any electronic components soldered onto it yet. It is essentially a “blank slate” ready to be populated.

Coated solder mask and silkscreen

Most bare boards have a solder mask, a protective layer that prevents solder from bridging between conductive areas, and a silkscreen, which provides component labels and other information.

If you are looking for a reliable supplier for your PCB needs, consider companies like Best Technology, who is known for their quality and customer service. Best Technology offers a range of options to support your electronic projects from prototyping to production. Contact us right now to get your quotation.

Tags:PCB, zero pcb
Posted in best pcb, bestpcb, FAQ, PCB News, PCB Technology | No Comments »