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Introduction to PCB Prototyping Printed Circuit Board (PCB) prototyping is an essential step in the electronics design process. It allows engineers and makers to test and validate their designs before committing to full-scale production. PCB prototyping involves creating a small batch of boards to verify the functionality, performance, and reliability of the circuit design. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of PCB prototyping, including the benefits, process, techniques, and tools involved. We Read more…

Understanding SMT stencil area ratio What is SMT Stencil Area Ratio? SMT (Surface Mount Technology) stencil area ratio is a crucial parameter in the SMT assembly process. It refers to the ratio of the aperture opening area to the wall area of the stencil. The area ratio determines the amount of solder paste deposited on the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) pads, which directly affects the quality of the solder joint. The area ratio is calculated Read more…

Introduction to SMT stencils and PCB prototyping Surface Mount Technology (SMT) has revolutionized the world of electronics manufacturing, enabling the production of smaller, more compact, and highly efficient printed circuit boards (PCBs). One of the key components in the SMT process is the use of SMT stencils, which play a crucial role in simplifying the PCB prototyping process. In this article, we will explore how and why SMT stencils are essential for efficient and accurate Read more…

What is Differential trace impedance? Differential trace impedance is a critical aspect of high-speed PCB design, especially in applications involving differential signaling. It refers to the impedance between two traces carrying differential signals, which are equal in magnitude but opposite in polarity. Maintaining a consistent differential impedance throughout the length of the traces is essential for ensuring signal integrity and minimizing reflections, crosstalk, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). In a typical PCB Stackup, differential traces are Read more…

Introduction to Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) is a crucial property for materials used in the manufacturing of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). It is the temperature at which a material transitions from a hard, glassy state to a soft, rubbery state. This transition is characterized by a significant change in the material’s mechanical and electrical properties, making it essential for designers and manufacturers to understand and consider when selecting materials for PCB Read more…

What are Annular rings? Annular rings, also known as PCB Annular Rings, are the copper-plated holes in a printed circuit board (PCB) that provide electrical connectivity between layers of the board. These rings are essential components in PCB design and manufacturing, as they ensure reliable connections and signal integrity throughout the board. Structure of Annular Rings An annular ring consists of two main parts: The hole (or via) drilled through the PCB The copper pad Read more…

How Does Peelable Soldermask Work? Peelable soldermask is typically made of a latex-based or synthetic rubber material that is applied in liquid form and then cured to create a solid, yet flexible coating over the PCB surface. The key characteristics of PSM are: Thermal stability: Withstands high temperatures during soldering without degrading Solderability: Prevents molten solder from wetting and adhering to coated areas Peelability: Easily removed by hand without leaving residue or damaging the PCB Read more…

Introduction In the world of printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing, the choice between copper defined and soldermask defined pads can significantly impact the overall quality, reliability, and manufacturability of the final product. This article will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, helping designers and manufacturers make informed decisions based on their specific requirements. Request PCB Manufacturing & Assembly Quote Now What are Copper Defined and Soldermask Defined Pads? Before exploring the pros Read more…

What is LPI Solder Mask? Liquid photoimageable (LPI) solder mask is a photosensitive polymer coating applied to printed circuit boards (PCBs) to protect the copper traces, prevent solder bridges, and provide electrical insulation. LPI solder mask selectively covers the areas of the PCB where components will not be soldered, while leaving the pads and other features exposed for soldering. The key advantages of LPI solder mask compared to other types include: Advantage Description High resolution Read more…

Introduction to Curtain Coating Curtain coating is a highly efficient and versatile method for applying liquid coatings to various substrates, such as paper, plastic films, and metal foils. This technique involves creating a continuous, free-falling curtain of the coating material and allowing the substrate to pass through it, resulting in a uniform and precise layer of coating on the surface. Curtain coating has gained significant popularity in industries such as packaging, printing, and electronics due Read more…