Consider This

May 31, 2021

Consider This: Designing Via-in-Pad for Higher Density Flexible Circuits

For flex circuit designs with high layer counts utilizing high density outer layers, the extra area utilized for separate pads and SMT components, severely limits the available space for trace fan out. By designing via-in-pad in flex and rigid flex circuits, it can significantly increase density, utilizing vias as mounting pads. The copper or silver filled flat vias allow for soldering components directly on via holes.

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April 26, 2021

Consider This: Termination of Flex Circuits

There are many ways to terminate and connect flexible circuits to a rigid PCB. The most widely used technologies fall into four main categories: Reinforced male finger contacts, unreinforced male finger contacts, standard through-hole and surface mount PCB connectors and insulation displacement connectors.

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March 31, 2021

Consider This: Reaching the Limit on Stiffeners

Flexible printed circuit boards, by their very nature, are designed to be flexible. This presents problems in securely and reliably attaching the ends of the flex circuits to a solid, stiff, main PCB or other electronic devices.

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February 17, 2021

Consider This: PCB Technologies We Need Now and Later

RF high frequency circuits are in almost every vehicle being produced today, with side, front, and rear radar to warn of potential collisions. Specialized RF technology high frequency PCBs are in high demand.

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January 21, 2021

Consider This: Advancements in Printed Circuit Manufacturing Equipment

Computers, lasers, and artificial intelligence are infiltrating every area of the PCB manufacturing facility. Over the last few years, most printed circuit manufacturers have invested heavily in integration of the complete shop equipment, controlled from one central computer mainframe. The interconnecting intelligence allows for quicker file processing, higher accuracy, and vastly improved yields.

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October 15, 2020

Consider This: Heavy-Copper Flex Circuits See Large Growth

Flex circuits can be designed and manufactured to handle heavy currents. The thicker copper—three oz. to 20 oz.—prevents true high cycle flexing. However, the circuit can be used in “bend to fit” and limited bend applications in high-current situations. John Talbot explains how heavy copper—as thick as 20 oz.—has been manufactured in single-side and double-side applications.

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December 10, 2020

Consider This: Buried Capacitance Power Planes

Why do we need capacitance between the power and ground planes? When you think of voltage, remind yourself it must be a loop. What you send out to power the chip you have to get back to ground to complete the path. Basic electrical law states that every power or signal line needs a ground or return. John Talbot explores this and more.

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September 13, 2020

Consider This: Let’s Talk About the Basics of Flex

Flexible PCBs, by their very nature, are designed to be flexible. This presents problems in securely and reliably attaching the ends of the flex circuits to a solid, stiff, main PCB or other electronic devices. A combination of hard, as well as semi-flexible stiffeners, is used for this purpose. John Talbot explains.

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September 19, 2018

Acrylic vs. Epoxy Adhesives for Flexible Circuits

One of the most misunderstood materials in flexible circuit fabrication is the adhesive system used to laminate the layers together. Since flexible circuits go through several lamination processes, it’s important to know the options and where best to use them in your electronic products.

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August 19, 2018

RMAs: Negative Experience or Valuable Opportunity?

Non-conforming material that is sent back by the customer can easily be interpreted as a negative experience. However, if it is perceived as an opportunity to learn and support the customer it becomes a much more pleasant and satisfying endeavor.

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