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Let you know about PCB copper layer thickness
Friday, August 16th, 2024

In the printed circuit board industry, the most common way to express the copper layer thickness on a PCB is in ounces (oz). 1oz means 1oz of copper evenly covers an area of 1 square foot, which is about 1.4mil. It uses the weight of the tissue area to express the average thickness of the copper foil. Expressed in terms of formula, 1oz=28.35g/FT2 (FT2 is square feet, 1 square foot = 0.09290304 square meters).

What is the standard thickness of a copper layer on a PCB?

In the manufacture of printed circuit boards (PCBs), the thickness of the copper layer is an important parameter that directly affects the electrical performance and reliability of the circuit board. Depending on the application requirements, the thickness of the copper layer can vary within a certain range. Generally speaking, the conventional copper layer thickness is between 1-35μm, with 35μm being the most commonly used thickness. For some applications with high reliability requirements, the copper layer thickness may reach more than 50μm.

The selection of the thickness of the copper layer is a decision-making process that takes into account a variety of factors, including the conductivity, heat dissipation, mechanical strength, cost and manufacturing difficulty of the circuit board. A larger copper thickness can reduce resistance and improve the conductivity and heat dissipation of the circuit board, but it will also increase material costs and production difficulties. Therefore, when designing PCB boards, engineers need to select a suitable copper thickness standard range based on specific application scenarios and design requirements to ensure the performance and reliability of the circuit board.

1oz copper thickness in mm = 0.035mm

0.5 oz copper thickness in mm = 0.0175mm

1.5 oz copper thickness in mils = 0.0525mm

2 oz copper thickness in mils =  0.07mm‌

How thick is PCB copper after plating?

PCB printed circuit boards are usually bonded to glass epoxy substrates with a layer of copper foil, usually 18, 35, 55 and 70 microns thick. The most commonly used copper foil is 35 microns thick.

The copper foil used by PCB manufacturers is generally 35~50 microns thick, and some are thinner than this, such as 10 microns, 18 microns, and thicker such as 70 microns. The thickness of the composite copper foil on a 1~3 mm thick substrate is about 35 microns. The thickness of the composite copper foil on a substrate with a thickness of less than 1MM is about 18 microns, and the thickness of the composite copper foil on a substrate with a thickness of more than 5 mm is about 55 microns.

The copper layer thickness of PCB (printed circuit board) can be adjusted according to different needs and designs. Common copper layer thicknesses include 1oz (35μm), 2oz (70μm), 3oz (105μm), and other thicker options. For most applications, a copper layer thickness of 1oz is sufficient and suitable for general signal transmission. ‌For circuit boards that need to carry large currents, such as switching power supplies, a copper layer thickness of 2oz or higher is usually used. ‌In addition, there are some special cases where manufacturers provide extremely heavy copper up to 20 oz/ft2 (26.8 mils or 0.34 mm) to meet special needs. ‌

When choosing the thickness of the copper layer, factors such as the purpose of the circuit board and the magnitude of the signal voltage and current need to be considered. ‌For example, for circuit boards that require excessive current, a copper thickness of 70μm or 105μm may be used. ‌For thin laminates that require ultra-high density patterns, a copper thickness of 12μm may be used. ‌Therefore, the specific thickness of the PCB after copper plating is determined according to design requirements and specific applications.‌

How thick is 2 oz copper for PCB?

If 1 ounce (28.35 grams) of copper were flattened to evenly cover a surface area of 1 square foot (0.093 square meters), the resulting thickness would be 1.37mils (0.0348mm). A conversion chart for different units of measurement can be found below.

PCB copper layer thickness 

What is the difference between different copper thicknesses in PCB?

‌Copper is an excellent conductive material, and the thickness of the copper layer directly affects the conductive effect of the circuit board. ‌Thicker copper layers can provide lower resistance, reduce signal transmission losses, and are particularly suitable for high-frequency and high-speed digital circuits. ‌

During the operation of electronic equipment, good heat dissipation is a key factor in ensuring the performance and life of components. ‌Thicker copper layers can conduct and dissipate heat more effectively, preventing components from overheating. ‌

In high-power electronic devices, thicker copper layers can carry larger currents, avoiding burnout or performance degradation caused by excessive current.

Below is the conductivity corresponding to different copper thicknesses.

PCB copper layer thickness 

How thick is high current PCB copper?

In PCB design, copper thickness (also called copper thickness) is an important parameter, which directly affects the performance indicators of the circuit board such as current carrying capacity, heat dissipation and reliability. For PCBs that need to withstand high currents, such as high-power LED light strips, power circuit boards, high-power motor control boards or high-power inverter control boards, thicker copper layers are usually used to increase current carrying capacity.

PCB copper layer thickness 

Different uses have different copper foil thicknesses. Common 0.5oz, 1oz, and 2oz are mostly used in consumer and communication products. Thick copper products above 3oz are mostly used for high currents, such as high-voltage products and power boards.

The thickness of copper foil (track width) will affect the current size. Although there is a formula that can directly calculate the maximum current carrying capacity of copper foil, it is not so simple when actually designing the circuit. Therefore, the safety factor should be fully considered during the design.

How thick is the copper in a flex PCB?

The thickness of copper foil in flexible PCB is generally 18μm, 35μm, 55μm and 70μm. These thickness specifications are suitable for different types of circuit board requirements, among which 35μm is the most commonly used copper foil thickness.

PCB copper layer thickness 

For flexible PCB, the choice of copper foil thickness depends on the specific purpose of the circuit board and the size of the signal voltage and current. For example, for PCBs that require excessive current, some parts will use 70μm copper thickness, while for signal transmission, 1oz (35μm) thickness is usually sufficient. In addition, for substrates of different thicknesses, the thickness of copper foil is also different. For example, the thickness of the composite copper foil on a 1mm thick substrate is about 18μm, and on a substrate thicker than 5mm, the thickness of the composite copper foil is about 55μm.

Conclusion:

PCBs for different usage scenarios correspond to different thicknesses of copper, and its thickness directly affects the conductive effect of the circuit board. If the copper layer is too thin, the conductivity may decrease, resulting in signal transmission attenuation or current instability. If the copper layer is too thick, although the conductivity will be very good, it will increase the cost and weight of the circuit board and easily lead to serious glue flow. In PCB manufacturing, it is necessary to select the appropriate copper thickness according to the design requirements and actual applications of the circuit board to achieve the best conductive effect.

BEST Technology is a professional PCB circuit board manufacturer with a large area of site and equipped with useful and experienced production personnel. Corresponding to different thicknesses of copper, we have rich production and processing experience. We can meet the requirements of any circuit board copper layer thickness.‌

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How to Make SMT? What is SMT Process?
Thursday, August 15th, 2024

What is the SMT?

Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is a production technique used to attach electronic components directly onto the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). This method enables automated manufacturing to handle most of the assembly process needed to create a functioning board. Components attached in this way are known as surface-mount devices (SMDs). Unlike traditional methods, SMT does not involve inserting components through holes in the board. Instead, components are soldered directly onto the surface using reflow soldering.

Originally known as Planar Mounting, SMT was pioneered by IBM in the 1960s for small-scale computer production, replacing the earlier Through-Hole Technology. However, SMT didn’t gain widespread use until 1986, when surface-mounted components achieved 10% market penetration. By 1990, SMDs had become a dominant feature in most high-tech circuit card assemblies (CCAs).

How to Make SMT? What is SMT Process?

What is the process of SMT manufacturing?

The SMT manufacturing process can be divided into three main stages: solder paste printing, component placement, and reflow soldering. Due to the complexity of the process, each stage is further broken down as follows:

1. Component and PCB Preparation

This initial stage involves selecting surface-mount components (SMCs) and designing the PCB. The board typically features flat copper pads plated with silver, tin-lead, or gold, which are called solder pads. These pads do not have holes and are used to support the pins of components like chips and transistors.

Another crucial element is the stencil, which is aligned with the solder pads to define the placement of solder paste during the next stage. The PCB and all materials involved must be thoroughly inspected to ensure there are no defects before proceeding with production.

2. Solder Paste Printing

Solder paste printing is a critical phase in SMT production. A stencil and squeegee are used to apply solder paste at an angle of 45° to 60°. The solder paste itself is a combination of powdered metal solder and flux, which temporarily holds components in place and cleans the soldering surfaces of impurities.

The paste is applied to the solder pads, connecting the SMCs to the PCB once melted in the reflow oven. It’s essential that the correct amount of paste is applied to each pad, as improper application can prevent proper connections from forming during reflow.

3. Component Placement

In this stage, pick-and-place machines accurately position components on the PCB. The machines use vacuum or gripper nozzles to remove each component from its packaging and place it onto the board. These machines are fast and precise, capable of placing up to 80,000 components per hour.

Precision is key here, as any misplaced components could lead to costly rework once soldered.

4. Reflow Soldering

After components are placed, the PCB is moved into the reflow oven for soldering. The board passes through several temperature-controlled zones:

  • Preheat Zone

The temperature is gradually increased to between 140℃ and 160℃ at a rate of 1.0℃-2.0℃ per second to ensure the board and components heat evenly.

  • Soak Zone

The PCB is maintained at this temperature for 60 to 90 seconds to stabilize the heat across the entire board.

  • Reflow Zone

The temperature is then raised to 210℃-230℃ to melt the solder paste, bonding the components to the PCB. The molten solder’s surface tension keeps the components in place during this process.

  • Cooling Zone

In the final zone, the solder is rapidly cooled to solidify the connections and prevent any soldering defects.

For double-sided boards, this process may need to be repeated, either using solder paste or adhesive to secure components.

How to Make SMT? What is SMT Process?

5. Cleaning and Inspection

Once the soldering process is complete, the PCB is cleaned and inspected for any defects. This is done using magnifying lenses, Automated Optical Inspection (AOI), flying probe testers, X-ray inspection, and other tools to ensure accuracy. Any flaws are repaired before the finished product is packaged and stored.

What are the basics of SMT?

SMT simplifies assembly by reducing the need for drilled holes and using smaller components. Unlike traditional through-hole components, SMT parts are placed on the surface of the PCB, making the design more compact.

The basic elements of SMT include:

  • PCBs: The base for components, designed with specific pads for each part.
  • Solder Paste: A mixture of metal solder particles and flux, used to create a bond between components and the board.
  • SMT Components: Small electronic parts, such as resistors, capacitors, and ICs, that attach to the PCB.

The transition from through-hole technology to SMT has improved manufacturing speed and performance in electronics.

How do I prepare for SMT?

As the core step of electronic product manufacturing, PCBA’s preparation before assembly directly affects the quality and reliability of the final product. The following is a detailed analysis from multiple dimensions:

1. Component inspection

Before assembly, all electronic components must undergo strict screening and inspection. This includes checking that the component type, package, number of pins, etc. are consistent with the BOM (Bill of Materials), as well as performing the necessary electrical performance tests.

2. Take ESD measures

Static damage to electronic components is invisible, but the consequences are serious. Therefore, when distributing materials and testing IQC, warehouse personnel should wear anti-static gloves, reliably ground the instrument, and lay anti-static rubber MATS on the work surface. During the assembly process, the operator should also wear anti-static clothes, anti-static bracelets and other protective equipment to ensure that the workbench and equipment are well grounded.

3. Cleanliness requirements

The work workshop and workbench must be kept clean to prevent contaminants such as dust and impurities from entering the circuit board, affecting the accuracy and quality of the patch. Clean the work surface and workshop floor regularly. Smoking, eating and drinking are strictly prohibited in the work area.

How to Make SMT? What is SMT Process?

4. Temperature and humidity control

Appropriate temperature and humidity should be maintained in the workshop to reduce static electricity generation and the impact on electronic components. It is usually recommended that the temperature be controlled at 23±3oC and the humidity be controlled at 45% to 70%RH. This environment helps to ensure the quality of welding and the stability of electronic components.

5. PCB appearance check

Before assembly, the PCB board should be visually inspected to confirm whether it is complete, whether the surface coated solder resistance layer is intact, and whether there are obvious short circuits and defects. Use a multimeter to check whether there is a short circuit between the power supply and the ground terminal on the printed board, and ensure that the printed board is fine.

6. Check the software and hardware

When the PCBA needs to be upgraded, the motherboards produced in different time periods should not be mixed together to avoid mixing problems. Before assembly, check whether the final use of the software is in accordance with customer requirements to ensure that the software and hardware are compatible and correct.

7. Welding process selection

According to the layout of the circuit board and the characteristics of the components, select the appropriate welding process (such as wave soldering, reflow welding, hot blast furnace welding, etc.). Each welding method has specific requirements for the placement, orientation and spacing of components that need to be planned in advance.

8. Manually prepare the post-welding plug-in components

For some components that cannot be automatically welded (such as large connectors, heat sinks, etc.), manual plug-in assembly is required. This requires the operator to have a wealth of experience and skilled skills to ensure the accuracy and robustness of the plug-in.

9. Perform ESD operations

During operation, use an ESD workbench and an ESD container to hold components and semi-finished products. All welding equipment should be grounded, the electric soldering iron must be anti-static type, and tested before use.

10 Cleaning and protective treatment

After the assembly is complete, the product needs to be cleaned to remove the residue and contaminants generated during the welding process. At the same time, appropriate protective treatment of the product, such as spraying three anti-paint, etc., to improve the product’s moisture, dust and corrosion resistance.

Which solder paste is used in SMT?

The type of solder paste used in SMT assembly process depends on several factors, such as the materials of the components and the PCB, as well as the operating conditions of the finished product. Generally, there are mainly include high temperature solder paste, ‌ medium temperature solder paste and low temperature solder paste. ‌

  • High temperature solder pastes are commonly used in applications where higher temperatures are required for welding. ‌ has a higher melting point and ‌ is suitable for welding electronic components with specific temperature requirements. ‌
  • Medium temperature solder paste and low temperature solder paste are suitable for medium and low temperature welding respectively, ‌ select the appropriate solder paste type according to the specific welding needs. ‌
How to Make SMT? What is SMT Process?

In addition, ‌ solder paste can also be classified according to the flux activity level, ‌ including “R” (‌ inactive) ‌, ‌ “RMA” class (‌ moderate activity) ‌, ‌ “RA” class (‌ completely reactive) ‌ and “SRA” class ‌ (‌ super activity). ‌ Different types of activity levels are suitable for different application scenarios, ‌ for example, ‌ “R” grade is usually used for welding aerospace, ‌ avionics products, ‌ and “RA” grade is suitable for consumer electronics products. ‌ This classification allows users to choose the right solder paste according to the specific application needs and cleaning process requirements. ‌

What temperature should a soldering iron be for SMT?

The right temperature for soldering in SMT can vary depending on the solder paste and components you’re using. Typically, the soldering iron should be set between 250°C and 300°C. Using a lower temperature might not properly melt the solder, while a higher temperature could damage components or the PCB.

Of course, different types of PCB requires different temperature. For example, ceramic PCBs has fragile surface, so a lower temperature is good.

What are the disadvantages of SMT?

  • Small volume (due to the limitation of components)
  • Fragility
  • High soldering requirements
  • Easily damaged or dropped
  • Challenging to inspect
  • Complex process and inspection
  • High equipment investment

How to solder SMT at home?

Soldering SMT components at home can be tricky, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s doable. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Tools: You’ll need a fine-tip soldering iron, tweezers, solder paste, and flux. You may also want a magnifying glass or microscope for better visibility.
  2. Apply Solder Paste: Use a small amount of solder paste on the pads of the PCB where you want to place your components.
  3. Place Components: With tweezers, carefully place the components onto the solder paste. Make sure they are properly aligned with the pads.
  4. Reflow the Solder: If you have a reflow oven, you can use it to heat the board. Alternatively, a hot air rework station can also work.
  5. Inspect: Once the solder has cooled, check the connections. If necessary, reheat or add more solder to fix any weak joints.

Best Technology is a one-stop PCB & PCB assembly manufacturer founded in 2006, with 5 assembly lines. If you have needs for PCB and PCBA fabrication, we can be your reliable supplier from prototypes to bulk production. In addition, we have SMT factory in Vietnam, if you don’t want to make smt in Shenzhen, then we can support you in Vietnam. Welcome to contact us if you have such PCB and PCBA projects.

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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.

What is a rigid flex pcb?

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?

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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?

  1. 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.
  2. 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. ‌
  3. 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. ‌
  4. Features and advantages
    Rigid-flexible board: It has stronger performance and higher stability, can reduce space and weight, and improve the reliability of connection. ‌
  5. 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?

  1. 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. ‌
  2. Substrate preparation: Clean the laminate containing the copper layer to prepare for the subsequent manufacturing process. ‌
  3. Pattern generation: The generation of circuit patterns is completed by screen printing or photo imaging. ‌
  4. Etching process: The laminate with the circuit pattern is soaked in an etching tank or sprayed with an etchant solution for etching. ‌
  5. Mechanical drilling: Circuit holes, pads and via patterns are drilled using a precision drilling system or technology, such as laser drilling technology. ‌
  6. Copper plating process: Deposit the required copper in the plated vias to establish electrical interconnections between layers. ‌
  7. 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. ‌
  8. Apply stiffeners: Apply local additional stiffeners before additional lamination processes as required by the board design. ‌
  9. Flexible board cutting: Cut flexible boards from production panels using hydraulic punching methods or specialized punching knives. ‌
  10. 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?

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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. ‌
  6. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
Application fields of rigid flex PCB

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.

Rigid flex pcb manufacturer

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

  1. Copper type and grade
  2. Manufacturing method
  3. 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:

  1. Copper Coils
  2. Adhesives and
  3. 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.

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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.

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

tda7294 amplifier board PCBA

  1. This circuit is an official standard circuit, stable and reliable.
  2. The filter uses a large electrolytic capacitor with a withstand voltage of 50V and a capacity of 2200uf.
  3. Power supply voltage: dual 12-36V ring transformer, dual 32V ring transformer is recommended
  4. Output power: 85W*1 undistorted rated power, peak power 100W
  5. Can easily drive speakers above 100W, speaker impedance: 4-8 ohms
  6. PCB size: 50*50mm
tda7294 amplifier board

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 datasheet
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.

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PCB vs CCA: What is a Circuit Card Assembly?
Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Hey there! If you’re curious about circuit card assembly (CCAs) and what makes them tick, you’ve come to the right place. CCAs are the unsung heroes behind many of the electronic devices we use every day. Let’s dive into what they are, their essential parts, how they’re made, and why they’re so important.

What is a circuit card assembly?

Circuit card assembly or CCA is the process of producing printed circuit boards. In essence, it is the same as PCBA (PCB assembly), just in different name. CCA is a manufacturing technology that converts raw materials into printed circuit boards. It is used in many industries, including the military and aerospace sectors. This type of manufacturing requires skilled professionals to lay out the design and then assemble it. If you are planning to buy a batch of circuit card components, here are some things you should know about CCA.

PCB vs CCA: What is a Circuit Card Assembly?

A circuit card is a thin, flat dielectric material on which conductive paths or traces are etched. These paths connect various electronic components. They are also used to connect components to sockets on printed circuit boards. Circuit card assy is the process of manufacturing circuit card components. The process involves adding electronic components to the substrate.

Key components of a circuit card assembly (CCA)

Circuit card assembly have several key components to make the circuit function properly. These can be divided into three basic components.

  • Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
  • Electronic component
  • Solder paste
  • Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

This is the backbone of the CCA. The printed circuit board provides the structural foundation on which all other components are mounted. A PCB is typically made of a flat, insulating material such as FR4 fiberglass, which is layered with conductive tracks made of copper. These tracks form the circuit pathways that connect various electronic components. The PCB board can be single-sided, with components and conductive tracks on one side only, or double-sided, with tracks and components on both sides. For more complex applications, multi-layer PCBs are used, which consist of multiple layers of insulating material and conductive pathways stacked together. These printed circuit boards are essential in ensuring that electrical signals are routed efficiently and reliably across the assembly.

PCB vs CCA: What is a Circuit Card Assembly?

  • Electronic Components

These include resistors, capacitors, integrated circuits, transistors, and more passive and positive components. Each part plays a specific role in the circuit, like pieces of a puzzle fitting together to make a complete picture. Resistors control the flow of electrical current, capacitors store and release energy, integrated circuits (ICs) perform various functions like processing and memory storage, and transistors act as switches or amplifiers. These components are carefully placed on the PCB in positions that allow them to connect and interact as designed.

PCB vs CCA: What is a Circuit Card Assembly?

  • Solder paste

Solder paste is like the glue that holds everything together, but it’s electrically conductive. It’s used to attach the electronic components to the PCB, so that they can stay put and work properly. Soldering creates a strong, conductive bond between the component leads and the PCB’s copper tracks. There are different types of soldering, such as lead-based and lead-free solders, each with its specific properties and applications. The soldering process can be done manually or using automated printing machines, depending on the complexity and volume of the assembly. Please noticed that solder paste should used in a very short time, otherwise, it will become dry solder paste.

PCB vs CCA: What is a Circuit Card Assembly?

What is the Difference Between a PCB and a CCA?

You might wonder, what’s the difference between a PCB and a CCA? Well, here’s a quick rundown:

AspectPCB (Printed Circuit Board)CCA (Circuit Card Assembly)
DefinitionA blank board with conductive pathwaysA PCB populated with electronic components
ComponentsNo electronic componentsIncludes electronic components like resistors, capacitors, ICs
FunctionalityServes as the foundation for electronic circuitsA functional electronic circuit ready for use in devices
Manufacturing StepsInvolves design, etching, and printing of conductive pathsInvolves PCB manufacturing plus component placement and soldering
Usage StageIntermediate stage in manufacturingFinal stage, ready for integration into electronic devices
ComplexityLess complex, involves fewer manufacturing stepsMore complex, involves multiple stages of assembly and testing

What is the circuit card assembly manufacturing process?

Making a CCA is a multi-step process:

Design

First, the PCB layout is designed using computer software. It includes numerous steps, like schematic drawing, layout design, SI, PI analysis, DFM. This can ensure the PCB board can fit all the necessary components and function correctly.

Fabrication

The PCB is then fabricated, which involves creating the physical board with layers of insulating and conductive materials. This is where the board gets its pathways. In this step, proceed strict quality control process to make sure the bare boards are qualified.

Component Placement

Next, printing solder paste and preparing components, then place them onto the PCB board according to the BOM file (bill of material). After setting up the pick and place machine, automated machines can precisely position each component based on the design.

Soldering

The components are soldered to the PCB. This can be done using methods like wave soldering or reflow soldering to ensure everything is securely attached and electrically connected. You must know, different products require different parameters, please make sure all the parameters like temperatures, time are suitable.

Inspection and Testing

The assembled CCA goes through rigorous inspection and testing to ensure it works as intended. This includes visual inspections, automated optical inspections (AOI), in-circuit testing (ICT), aging testing and functional testing.

Final Assembly

If the CCA passes all tests, it moves on to final assembly, where it’s integrated into the larger electronic system or device. That is we say the box building assembly.

What are the types of circuit card assembly?

CCAs can be divided into various types according to the different manufacturing technology.

Through-Hole Technology (THT) Assembly

Here, components have leads or pins inserted into holes drilled through the PCB and soldered on the other side. This method provides strong mechanical bonds, making it great for components that experience mechanical stress. It’s often used in aerospace, military, and industrial equipment.

Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Assembly

In SMT, components are mounted directly onto the PCB surface using solder paste. No drilling required, which allows for higher component density and smaller PCBs. This method is commonly used in consumer electronics, telecommunications, and automotive industries.

Box Building Assembly

Box building assembly involves the complete assembly of electronic systems, including CCAs, into enclosures or boxes. This process includes not only the assembly of the PCB but also the integration of cables, connectors, and other components into a final product. Box building is ideal for producing complete electronic devices ready for end-use.

Advanced materials for CCAs

Advanced materials help CCAs perform better and last longer:

  • High-Temperature Laminates (e.g., FR-4, Polyimide)

High temperature laminate like FR4 or polyimide. These materials can handle extreme conditions without breaking down. FR-4 is popular for its excellent thermal and mechanical properties, while polyimide is great for high-temperature stability.

  • Flexible Substrates (e.g., Kapton, PET)

Kapton and PET are the most common flexible substrate. These materials allow CCAs to bend and flex. Kapton, a type of polyimide, is known for its high thermal resistance and flexibility, making it perfect for wearable electronics and medical devices. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is another flexible material with good electrical insulation properties.

  • Advanced Solder Compounds

SAC305 (a lead-free alloy of tin, silver, and copper) is favored for its mechanical and thermal properties. Whatever you want to mount a ceramic PCB or the flexible PCB, it is the best choice. Sn63Pb37, a traditional tin-lead solder, is still used for its ease of use and excellent performance.

Reliable circuit card assembly manufacturers

Choosing the right manufacturer for your CCAs is key to getting quality products. PCBonline and Best Technology are go-to-choice reliable circuit card assembly manufacturers. Both of them has advanced pick and place machine, full-auto SPI, AOI equipment, ensuring a good quality.

As a leading manufacturer in the circuit card assembly, Best Technology prides full turn-key service, ranging from the PCB design, PCB fabricating, electronic component sourcing, circuit card assembly and box build assembly. We handle complex and high-volume orders efficiently, ensuring timely and fast delivery without sacrificing quality. In 2023 alone, we completed over 5000 high-complexity projects with a client satisfaction rate of over 98%.

It is crucial for anyone to fullly understand the circuit card assembly in the electronics industry. From their basic components and manufacturing process to the advanced materials used, CCAs are the backbone of modern electronic devices.

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How to Make a BOM?
Thursday, July 11th, 2024

If you are familiar with SMT or PCB assembly process, you may know BOM file. It is an important element in the SMT process. Creating BOM is a crucial step in the manufacturing process, especially for PCBs. A BOM serves as a comprehensive list of all the parts, components, and materials needed to build your product. It ensures that everyone involved in the production process is on the same page, reducing the risk of errors and delays. Today, Best Technology would like to introduce BOM and giving you a guide to create a BOM file step by step.

How to Make a BOM?

What is a Bill of Materials (BOM)?

A Bill of Materials (BOM) is a detailed list of all the parts, components, and materials needed to manufacture a product. In PCB manufacturing, a BOM outlines every item required to assemble a PCB, including quantities, part numbers, and descriptions. It serves as a guide to ensure that the manufacturing process runs smoothly and that no crucial components are missing.

Types of Bill of Materials

There are several types of BOMs used in different stages of production. Each type serves a specific purpose and provides unique details to streamline processes and ensure accuracy. Here are the primary types of BOMs:

  • Engineering BOM

This type of BOM is creating during the design phase. It lists all the parts and components designed by the engineering team, including specifications and relationships as intended in the final product. And of course, it mainly used by design engineers to communicate the product structure and details to manufacturing teams.

  • Manufacturing BOM (Formal)

It is a formal BOM files that used in the assembly phase. Different with engineering BOM, it includes additional details necessary for manufacturing, such as packaging, handling instructions and assembly details. And some special instructions.

  • Sales BOM

Sales BOM is used by sales teams and includes information relevant to the sales process, such as pricing and availability. It helps in providing accurate quotes, managing customer expectations, and handling sales orders efficiently.

What Should Include in an Effective Bill of Materials?

An effective BOM should be detailed, accurate, and easy to understand. It should include all the details of components and indicated revisions. As a 18 years expertise in PCBA production, we summarized the key elements that should be included in the BOM.

  • Component details

It should include all the components and their detailed information, such as names, part numbers (PN), and descriptions for each part.

  • Quantity (QTY)

The exact quantity of each component required for the product. Accurate quantities can prevent shortages and overstocking.

  • Foot print

It is the package of each component, helping to ensure the correction of part.

  • Reference Designators

Unique identifiers that match each component to its specific location on the product layout. These are essential for assembly and troubleshooting.

  • Manufacturer Information

Manufacturer information, including the manufacturer name of components and manufacturer part number. It helps to ensure correct parts are sourced. And convenient for alternative part sourcing if it is shortage.

  • Supplier information (Optional)

It means the name of the supplier or distributor. The part number used by the supplier, which may differ from the manufacturer’s part number.

  • Assembly instructions

Any special notes for assembly such as DNF remark, and version control to track revisions should also be included. Additionally, cost information helps in budgeting, and lifecycle status information helps plan for component availability and avoid discontinued parts.

How to Make a PCB Bill of Materials (BOM)?

Creating a PCB BOM is a systematic process that involves compiling all the necessary information about each component required for the assembly of the PCB. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create a PCB BOM:

  • Open a Blank Spreadsheet

Use software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to start with a blank spreadsheet. They are common to use, offering flexibility and ease of use for creating and managing BOMs.

  • Define Columns

Set up your spreadsheet with appropriate column headers. Common headers include:

  • Part Number
  • Component Name
  • Quantity
  • Reference Designator
  • Manufacturer
  • Manufacturer Part Number
  • Supplier
  • Supplier Part Number
  • Description
  • Package Type
  • Cost
  • Notes
  • Input Data

Enter the required details for each component under the appropriate headers. Please be make sure that all information is accurate and complete. This may involve referencing design files, datasheets, and supplier catalogs. If it is incorrect, then it needs a lot of time to find out and revise the errors, resulting in schedule delay.

  • Use Formulas

Utilize Excel formulas to automate calculations, such as summing total quantities or calculating costs. This helps in reducing manual errors and saves time.

  • Format for Clarity

Use cell formatting options to highlight important information and ensure the spreadsheet is easy to read. For example, you can use bold text for column headers, color coding for different component types, and borders to separate sections.

  • Include Version Control

Add a version control section to your BOM to track revisions and updates. This can be a simple row at the top or bottom of the spreadsheet, indicating the version number, date of revision, and a brief description of changes.

How to Make a BOM?
(BOM file reference)
  • Save and Update

Save your BOM and update it regularly to reflect any changes in the design or component availability. Regular updates ensure that the BOM remains accurate and up-to-date, preventing issues during production.

  • Review and Verify

Have multiple team members review the BOM for accuracy. Cross-check all component details, quantities, and part numbers against the design files. Verification helps catch errors early and ensures the BOM is reliable.

  • Communicate with Suppliers:

Maintain open communication with suppliers to confirm component details and availability. This ensures that you can source the correct parts and avoid delays in the production process.

How Can I Optimize My BOM for PCB Assembly?

Sometimes, a simple BOM is not good to process PCB assembly process, and manufacturers may need to spend a lot of time to optimize it, make into convenient for manufacturing. If you are a layman, here are some steps to help you in optimizing your BOM file.

First, it’s a good idea to standardize components where possible. Using standard parts that are readily available from multiple suppliers can simplify procurement and reduce costs. This approach minimizes the risk of shortages and ensures you can get parts quickly and affordably. Also, make sure all entries in your BOM are clear and concise to avoid confusion during assembly. Double-checking part numbers and quantities against design files is crucial to prevent errors that could lead to rework or delays.

Building strong relationships with your suppliers is another key factor. Good communication with suppliers helps ensure reliable component availability and keeps you informed about any changes in lead times or part availability. Regularly updating your BOM to reflect any design changes or component availability issues is essential. Keeping your BOM current and accurate prevents last-minute surprises during assembly.

How to Make a BOM?

What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid When Creating a PCB BOM?

Avoiding common mistakes in BOM creation can save time and reduce errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Incomplete information – ensure all necessary details are included for each component.
  • Incorrect quantities – double-check quantities to avoid shortages or excess inventory.
  • Outdated data – keep the BOM updated with the latest design changes and component information.
  • Ambiguous descriptions – provide clear and precise descriptions to prevent confusion.
  • Lack of version information – implement version control to track changes and ensure the correct BOM version is used.

Creating an effective and accurate PCB BOM is essential for smooth manufacturing and assembly. By following best practices and using the right tools, you can ensure your BOM is comprehensive, clear, and up-to-date, ultimately leading to a successful PCB production process.

Best Technology is an expert in SMT and PCB assembly, we have more than 18 years in this industry, that can offer you a best experience of PCBA solution. In our facotry, we have advanced equipment like full auto pick and place machine, online dual AOI, X-ray, 3D SPI, nitride reflow oven and three-proof paint machine. So that we can ensure the fast lead time and high quality of your PCBA products. Reach us to get a instant quote!

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India Customer Visit in Best Technology
Thursday, July 4th, 2024

On July 3rd, 2024, we had India customers visit our office and factory. All our staff of our customer warmly welcome the guest from afar.

Our sales manager Peter, along with Connie and Marina, gave a detailed introduction to our main business and product expertise. They talked about our strict quality control, careful selection of PCB board materials, advanced production equipment, and mature manufacturing processes. Our guests seemed quite impressed with how thorough we are in ensuring top-notch quality.

PCB product introduction

Actually, we’ve been working with this customer for several years now, and it’s been a fantastic journey of building trust and collaboration. This visit was a great chance to dive into a new PCB project and show off our latest innovations, including electric heating films, ceramic PCBs, and bendable aluminum PCBs.

When checking the sample books, the customers specially mentioned the blind vias and checked the related products for many times. It looks like they are extremely interested in this technology.  You know, blind vias, buried vias, through hole vias, micro vias and thermal vias are always our strengthens.

PCB samples sharing

Next day, Connie will be taking our guests on a tour of our metal dome and dome array factory. It’s always exciting to show our partners the heart of our operations and let them see firsthand the dedication and precision that goes into our work.

Metal dome project talking

Best Technology is a one-stop PCB and PCBA service provider in China and Vietnam. “High mix, Low-Middle Volume, High Quality and Fast Delivery” is our advantages. Custom PCBs available in our company as well. You can get high-quality PCB board and PCBA at a very transparent price. For more information, feel free to contact us at any time.

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What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Components?
Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024

In PCB electronics, components are classified into two main categories: active and passive components. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone working with electronic circuits. Active components control electricity flow and require an external power source. Passive components do not control electricity and do not need an external power source.

What are active and passive components meaning?

Active and passive components, simply say, the device that needs an energy (electrical) source is called an active device, and the device that does not need an energy source is a passive device. Active components, such as transistors and diodes, require external power to function. They can control the flow of electricity. Passive components, like resistors and capacitors, do not need external power. They cannot control electrical flow but can store, resist, or filter energy. Both passive and active components are common useful in PCB assembly and SMT technology.

Active components play a dynamic role in circuits. They can amplify signals, switch currents, and perform various complex functions. These components rely on an external power source to operate and influence the behavior of the circuit. For instance, a transistor can amplify a weak signal, making it stronger and more useful for further processing.

What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Components?

Passive components, on the other hand, are more static in nature. They cannot amplify signals or control current flow but are essential for other functions like energy storage and signal filtering. Resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transformers are common examples. Each of these components has a specific role in maintaining the stability and functionality of an electronic circuit.

What are the key differences between active and passive components?

The main difference between active and passive components is their ability to control electricity. Active components can amplify signals and perform complex tasks. Passive components can only store, resist, or filter energy. They cannot amplify signals or control current.

Active components are energy-dependent. They require an external source of power to function and can influence the flow of electricity within the circuit. For example, an integrated circuit (IC) can perform multiple functions like amplification, switching, and signal modulation, all of which require external power.

Passive components, in contrast, do not require an external power source. They can only perform their functions passively. For instance, a resistor can limit the current flowing through a circuit without needing additional power. Similarly, a capacitor can store electrical energy and release it when needed, all without external energy input.

Common active components in electronics

Active devices are the main components of electronic circuits. From the physical structure, circuit function and engineering parameters, active devices can be divided into discrete devices and integrated circuits.

1. Discrete devices

  • Bipolar transistor, generally referred to as transistor or BJT
  • Field effective transistor
  • Thyristor
  • Semiconductor resistors and capacitors – resistors and capacitors manufactured by integrated technology are used in integrated circuits.

2. Integrated circuit

Integrated circuit can be divided into analog IC and digital IC. Analog integrated circuits mainly deal with continuous analog signals, such as sound, light, temperature, etc., and retain the continuity and accuracy of the signal through amplification, filtering, mixing and other operations. In contrast, digital integrated circuits are used to process discrete time digital signals, convert the signal into binary digital form, and then perform logical operations and processing.

Basic analog integrated circuit devices generally include:

  • Integrated operational amplifier (operation amplifier)
  • Comparator
  • Logarithmic and exponential amplifiers
  • Multiplier/divider
  • Analog switching circuit (analog switch)
  • Phase lock loop
  • Integrated voltage regulator
  • Reference source
  • Wave-form generator
  • Power amplifier

Digital integrated circuit including:

  • Logic gate circuit
  • Flip-flop
  • Register
  • Decoder
  • Data comparator
  • Driver
  • Counter
  • Shaping circuit
  • Programmable Logic Device (PLD)
  • Microprocessor (MPU)
  • Microcontroller (MCU)
  • Digital signal processor (DSP)

Common passive components in electronics

Passive devices in electronic systems can be divided into circuit components and connection components according to the circuit functions they play. These components are essential for functions like energy storage, filtering, and impedance matching in electronic circuits. The common passive components are including:

Circuit components

  1. Diode
  2. Resistor
  3. Resistor network
  4. Capacitor
  5. Inductor
  6. Transformer
  7. Relay
  8. Key
  9. Speaker
  10. Switch

Connection components

  • Connector
  • Socket
  • Cable
  • PCB (printed circuit board)

Why are active components crucial in modern electronics?

The ability of active components to control and manipulate electrical signals makes them indispensable in a wide range of applications.

In computers, for example, active components such as processors and memory chips perform complex calculations and store large amounts of data. In communication systems, active components amplify weak signals, making long-distance transmission possible. Without these amplifiers, the signal would decay with distance, leading to a decline in communication quality. Power electronics, another key area of modern development, relies heavily on active components. Devices like power converters, inverters, and motor controllers use transistors and integrated circuits to efficiently convert and control electrical energy. This efficiency is crucial for applications ranging from renewable energy systems to electric vehicles.

It’s fair to say that without active components, devices like computers, smartphones, and TVS wouldn’t function the way they do today, and our era of big data wouldn’t be moving as fast as it is today.

How do passive components complement active components?

Both active and passive components are indispensable in a circuit. They depend on each other and complement each other. Without active components, the circuit cannot be activated or perform a specific work. Without passive components, the circuit cannot be controlled and adjusted, nor can it achieve a stable operating state. Such a relationship between the two is like the relationship between the “dynamic” and the “static” of a circuit.

What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Components?

For example, in an audio amplifier circuit, the power supply and amplifier are the active components, and the load and resistance are the passive components. The power supply provides energy, the amplifier amplifies the signal, and controls and limits it through load and resistance, and finally realizes the amplification and regulation of the audio signal. In signal processing, inductors filter out high-frequency noise and protect sensitive active components from interference. Transformers, on the other hand, enable efficient power transfer between different parts of the circuit, allowing active components to operate within their optimal voltage range.

Comparing the Energy Requirements of Active and Passive Elements

Active components need an external power source to function. They consume energy during operation. Passive components do not need external power and generally do not consume energy, except for minor resistive losses. This difference impacts the design and efficiency of electronic circuits.

Active components, such as transistors and integrated circuits, rely on external power to operate. This power requirement means that active components consume energy during their operation. The amount of energy consumed depends on the specific component and its application. For instance, a power amplifier consumes more energy than a simple transistor switch.

Passive components, in contrast, do not need external power to function. They operate solely based on the electrical energy present in the circuit. Resistors, capacitors, and inductors do not consume significant energy, except for minor resistive losses in resistors. This low energy requirement makes passive components more efficient in certain applications.

What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Components?

The difference in energy requirements between active and passive components impacts the overall efficiency of electronic circuits. Designers must carefully balance the use of active and passive components to achieve optimal performance and energy efficiency. For example, using passive filters instead of active ones can save energy in low-power applications.

Active and Passive Component Images and Symbols

Recognizing symbols are essential for reading and designing circuit diagrams. They provide a visual representation of the components and their functions, helping designers understand the overall structure and operation of the circuit. Recognizing these symbols is a fundamental skill for anyone involved in electronics. Here is a detailed images and symbols listing of common active and passive components.

Above all is the introduction to passive and active components, hope it is useful for every engineers. Best Technology is a professional PCB and PCBA manufacturer in Asia. We have our own factory in China and Vetnam. Welcome to contact us if you have any questions about components and PCB assembly.

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What needs to be paid attention during PCBA process?
Thursday, April 16th, 2020

PCB is an indispensable part for any electronic equipment in small toys or computers., etc. The complex interconnection components include resistor, diode and capacitor, which help components work normally in series. In a sense, it is similar to the “brainâ€Â of the system. PCB assembly process must be of no any mistakes. Here are some points that need to be paid attention:

1.Supply chain management: In order to create high quality PCB, the first thing needing consideration is supply chain. For the availability, both quality and price are important, so is delivery time of components.

pcbassembly
pcbassembly

2.PCB layout. The common question during manufacturing stage is pcb layout in minor differences. Even though various types of designs looks the same to outward seeming, the manufacturing processes are different. You need to ensure PCB layout is feasible during manufacturing process.

3.Test-test has to be conducted after PCB assembly. What needs to be done is to design test point. Some tests include:

Micro-section analysis-also referred to as cross section analysis. This test contributes to identifying components fault and thermal-mechanical faults.

pcbassembly
pcbassembly

Solderability test. This test contributes to testing reliability of PCB solder pad, to ensure a firm surface and a reliable soldering point. It also contributes to confirming if storage will have an effect on solder components.

PCB pollution test-This can test many issues, such as corrosion and degradation. Scaling powder residue will result in pollution and thereby case components failure. Pollution analysis is famous for its accuracy and preciseness.

Optical microscope-This can test the issues relevant to PCB and soldering as well as overall pcb assembly. The process is famous for its speed, as it involves using high-power microscope to inspect incorrect structure.

Best Technology specializes in PCB assembly solutions since 2006, and if you would like to know more about turnkey PCB services(one-stop solutions about PCB), contact us anytime.

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The Basics of Printed Circuit Board Assembly(SMT)
Friday, November 1st, 2019

Printed circuit board assembly(SMT), also known as “stuffing†or “populatingâ€Â the bare printed circuit board, is quite an intricate process which involves many different stages.  Best Technology’ in house printed circuit board assembly service makes ordering your turnkey printed circuit boards a hassle-free experience as you can count on the industry’s largest support team to help you control every step of the process.

Here are some of the basic elements involved in the printed circuit board assembly process:

Solder Paste Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Solder paste is a combination of flux, a chemical created to assist in the bonding and melting of the metal, and small fragments of metal (solder) so as to apply the electronic components to the printed circuit board. The paste is placed on the board in specific places along the board in exact amounts with the use of a Solder Stencil and a paste application machine, automatically.

Pick and Place Machine – This machine is essential in an automated printed circuit board assembly process.  The machine is programmed to automatically coordinate with complete accuracy the places to precisely mount each electronic component to be soldered to the printed circuit board. These machines are exact and quick.

Infrared Reflow Ã¢â‚¬â€œ After the precise bonding element (solder paste) is applied to the PCB, the board will be directed to the reflow oven to join the electronic components to the board by melting the solder paste. This “oven†is comprised of many heaters whose main function is to heat the board to a precise temperature and control the level of cooldown as the solder hardens. This process is crucial to the creation of properly functioning electronics. The printed circuit board will run through a series of testing to ensure no issues or short-circuiting nor misalignments have occurred.

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