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Introduction to Flexible PCBs Flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs) have revolutionized the electronics industry with their versatility, durability, and lightweight design. Unlike traditional rigid PCBs, flexible PCBs can bend, twist, and conform to various shapes, making them ideal for applications where space is limited or where the device needs to move or flex. One such application where flexible PCBs have proven to be the best choice is in satellite technology. What are Flexible PCBs? Flexible Read more…

The Risks Associated with Traditional PCB Fabrication & Assembly Health Risks for Workers Conventional PCB manufacturing processes involve the use of various chemicals, including: Copper etchants (e.g., ferric chloride, ammonium persulfate) Photoresists and developers Solvents (e.g., isopropyl alcohol, acetone) Tin-lead solder Exposure to these chemicals can lead to a range of health issues for workers, such as: Respiratory problems Skin irritation and allergies Eye irritation Neurological disorders Increased risk of cancer Environmental Impact The chemicals Read more…

Introduction to MIL-PRF-31032 Certification MIL-PRF-31032 is a crucial certification for PCB Manufacturers that ensures the production of high-quality, reliable printed circuit boards for use in military and aerospace applications. This certification, issued by the United States Department of Defense (DoD), sets stringent requirements for the design, fabrication, and testing of PCBs to guarantee their performance in harsh environmental conditions and mission-critical situations. What is MIL-PRF-31032? MIL-PRF-31032 is a performance specification that outlines the requirements for Read more…

Introduction to PCB Manufacturing in China China has emerged as a global leader in the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs), with a thriving industry that offers high-quality products at competitive prices. PCB manufacturing in China has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades, thanks to the country’s vast resources, skilled workforce, and favorable government policies. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of PCB manufacturing in China, including its history, current Read more…

Understanding PCB Fabrication Before diving into the factors to consider when choosing a PCB fabrication service, let’s briefly understand what PCB fabrication entails. What is PCB Fabrication? PCB fabrication is the process of manufacturing printed circuit boards. It involves several steps, including: Designing the PCB layout Printing the circuit pattern on the copper-clad board Etching away the unwanted copper Drilling holes for components Applying solder mask and silkscreen Testing the finished PCB Types of PCB Read more…

What is Heavy Copper PCB? Heavy Copper PCBs are printed circuit boards that use thicker copper traces than standard PCBs. While a typical PCB uses 1-2 oz. copper (35-70 μm thick), heavy copper PCBs use copper traces ranging from 3 oz. to 20 oz. (105-700 μm thick). The thicker copper allows for higher current carrying capacity, better heat dissipation, and improved mechanical strength. Applications of Heavy Copper PCBs Heavy copper PCBs are used in various Read more…

What is a PCB Slot? A PCB slot, also known as a card edge connector or edge-card connector, is a type of electrical connector designed to accept the edge of a printed circuit board. The edge of the PCB features a series of conductive traces that align with the contacts inside the slot connector. When the PCB is inserted into the slot, a secure electrical connection is established between the board and the connector. PCB Read more…

What are Aluminum PCBs? Aluminum PCBs, also known as Metal Core PCBs (MCPCBs), are printed circuit boards that use aluminum as the base material instead of the traditional FR-4 material. The aluminum substrate provides excellent thermal conductivity, allowing heat to dissipate quickly from the components mounted on the PCB. This makes aluminum PCBs ideal for applications that generate a lot of heat, such as high-power LEDs, power electronics, and automotive systems. Key Features of Aluminum Read more…

Understanding MOSFET Failure Modes Before diving into protection techniques, it is essential to understand the common failure modes of MOSFETs. The primary causes of MOSFET failure include: Overvoltage: When the gate-to-source or drain-to-source voltage exceeds the maximum rated value, it can cause gate oxide breakdown or avalanche breakdown, leading to permanent damage. Overcurrent: Excessive drain current can cause thermal runaway, where the increased temperature leads to higher current, creating a positive feedback loop that eventually Read more…

What are PLCC Packages? PLCC stands for “Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier”. PLCC packages are a type of surface-mount integrated circuit package used for housing and connecting microchips and other electronic components. They consist of a plastic housing with metal leads or pins extending from the sides that are used to solder the package onto a printed circuit board (PCB). Key Characteristics of PLCC Packages PLCC packages have several defining characteristics: Plastic housing material Leads/pins on Read more…