PCB Essentials: Understanding the Basics
Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are the backbone of modern electronics. They are used in almost every electronic device, from smartphones and computers to medical equipment and automotive systems. Advanced Circuits is a leading provider of high-quality PCBs, offering a wide range of services to meet the needs of their customers. In this article, we will discuss 10 essential things you should know about Advanced Circuits PCB.
1. What is a PCB?
A PCB is a flat board made of insulating material, such as fiberglass or plastic, with conductive copper traces printed on its surface. These traces connect various electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits, to form a complete electronic circuit. PCBs are designed using specialized software and manufactured using a multi-step process that includes etching, drilling, and plating.
2. Advanced Circuits: A Leader in PCB Manufacturing
Advanced Circuits is a US-based PCB manufacturer that has been in business since 1989. They offer a wide range of PCB services, including standard and advanced PCB fabrication, assembly, and design. Advanced Circuits is known for their high-quality products, quick turnaround times, and excellent customer service.
3. PCB Layers and Thickness
PCBs can be classified based on the number of layers they have. The most common types are single-sided, double-sided, and multi-layer PCBs. Single-sided PCBs have conductive traces on only one side of the board, while double-sided PCBs have traces on both sides. Multi-layer PCBs have multiple layers of conductive traces sandwiched between insulating layers. Advanced Circuits offers PCBs with up to 28 layers and thicknesses ranging from 0.003″ to 0.250″.
| PCB Type | Number of Layers | Thickness Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single-sided | 1 | 0.003″ – 0.250″ |
| Double-sided | 2 | 0.003″ – 0.250″ |
| Multi-layer | 4-28 | 0.003″ – 0.250″ |
4. PCB Materials
The choice of PCB material depends on the specific application and its requirements. The most common PCB materials are:
- FR-4: A fiberglass-reinforced epoxy laminate that is widely used for general-purpose PCBs.
- High Tg FR-4: A variant of FR-4 with improved thermal stability, suitable for high-temperature applications.
- Rogers: A family of high-frequency laminates with low dielectric loss, used in RF and microwave applications.
- Polyimide: A flexible, high-temperature material used in flex and rigid-flex PCBs.
Advanced Circuits offers a wide selection of PCB materials to suit various applications.
5. PCB Surface Finishes
The surface finish on a PCB serves two main purposes: protecting the copper traces from oxidation and providing a solderable surface for component assembly. Advanced Circuits offers several surface finish options, including:
- HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling): A tin-lead alloy is applied to the PCB surface and leveled using hot air.
- Lead-Free HASL: Similar to HASL, but uses a lead-free alloy to comply with RoHS regulations.
- ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold): A layer of nickel is deposited on the copper, followed by a thin layer of gold.
- OSP (Organic Solderability Preservative): A thin, organic coating is applied to the copper to protect it from oxidation.
The choice of surface finish depends on factors such as the assembly process, environmental requirements, and cost.
6. PCB Design Software
Advanced Circuits offers free PCB design software called PCB Artist. This software is easy to use and includes features such as schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D viewing. PCB Artist also includes a library of common electronic components and footprints, making it easier for designers to create their PCBs.
7. PCB Fabrication Process
The PCB fabrication process involves several steps, including:
- Design: The PCB is designed using specialized software, such as PCB Artist.
- Printing: The PCB design is printed onto a photosensitive film or directly onto the copper-clad board.
- Etching: The exposed copper is etched away, leaving only the desired traces.
- Drilling: Holes are drilled through the board for component leads and vias.
- Plating: The holes are plated with copper to create electrical connections between layers.
- Solder Mask: A protective layer is applied to the PCB, covering the copper traces but leaving the pads exposed.
- Silkscreen: Text and symbols are printed onto the PCB for component identification and assembly instructions.
Advanced Circuits has a state-of-the-art facility that allows them to produce high-quality PCBs efficiently and consistently.
8. PCB Assembly
Advanced Circuits offers both PCB fabrication and assembly services. Their assembly services include through-hole and surface mount assembly, as well as mixed technology assembly. They use automated assembly lines with pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and wave soldering machines to ensure high-quality and reliable assembly.
9. PCB Testing and Quality Control
To ensure the highest quality products, Advanced Circuits employs a rigorous testing and quality control process. This includes:
- Automated optical inspection (AOI) to detect surface defects and component placement errors.
- In-circuit testing (ICT) to verify the electrical connectivity and functionality of the assembled PCB.
- Functional testing to ensure that the PCB performs as intended in its final application.
- X-ray inspection to detect hidden defects, such as voids in solder joints.
Advanced Circuits is certified to ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 standards, demonstrating their commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
10. PCB Services and Support
Advanced Circuits offers a range of PCB services to support their customers throughout the entire PCB lifecycle. These services include:
- Free PCB design software (PCB Artist)
- PCB design review and feedback
- Prototyping and low-volume production
- High-volume production
- PCB assembly (through-hole, surface mount, and mixed technology)
- PCB testing and quality control
- Technical support and customer service
Advanced Circuits also provides online resources, such as design guides, tutorials, and FAQs, to help their customers navigate the PCB design and manufacturing process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
Q: What is the minimum order quantity for PCBs at Advanced Circuits?
A: Advanced Circuits offers prototype quantities starting at just one piece, making it easy for customers to test their designs before committing to larger production runs. -
Q: How long does it take to receive a PCB order from Advanced Circuits?
A: Advanced Circuits offers standard lead times of 5-7 business days for PCB fabrication and assembly. They also provide expedited services for customers who need their PCBs faster. -
Q: Can Advanced Circuits handle complex PCB designs?
A: Yes, Advanced Circuits has the expertise and technology to handle complex PCB designs, including high-density interconnect (HDI), flexible, and rigid-flex PCBs. -
Q: Does Advanced Circuits offer PCB design services?
A: While Advanced Circuits does not offer PCB design services directly, they provide free PCB design software (PCB Artist) and design review services to help customers create manufacturable PCB designs. -
Q: What certifications does Advanced Circuits hold?
A: Advanced Circuits is certified to ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 standards, demonstrating their commitment to quality and continuous improvement in PCB manufacturing and assembly.
Conclusion
Advanced Circuits is a leading provider of high-quality PCBs and related services. By understanding the basics of PCBs, including their layers, materials, surface finishes, and the fabrication process, customers can make informed decisions when working with Advanced Circuits. The company’s commitment to quality, quick turnaround times, and excellent customer support make them a top choice for PCB fabrication and assembly. Whether you need prototypes or high-volume production, Advanced Circuits has the expertise and technology to meet your PCB needs.
