Important consideration for your PCBs

PCBs are the lynchpin as far as today’s technology is concerned; they are at the heart of everything that requires some form of electric function. In fact, without PCBs, our modern world would not be able to function at all, such is the influence of this incredible invention. They are the unsung heroes of modern life. As technology advances, so PCBs will become more common as we rely on them more and more.

Choosing the right PCBs for your device boils down to some important key factors as they will influence the overall performance and capabilities of your product.

Materials used in PCBs

Various materials can be used in the manufacturing of PCBs, all of which influence the cost and performance of each unit. Understanding what your PCBs are going to be used with and what’s expected from them is crucial. This will help you decide on the best option in order to provide the level of effectiveness you need at a price within budget.

A basic PCB consists of a flat sheet of insulating material and a layer of copper foil, laminated to the substrate. Copper is used due to its conductivity, durability and price, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of designs and applications.

Aluminium-based PCBs are another option and are best suited to single-sided PCBs, owing to the impracticality of manufacturing plated through holes through the metal base material.

Aluminium is very effective in thermal heat dissipation applications that involve high-power surface mount integrated circuits. It improves performance by dispersing heat and keeping other elements of the unit cool.

There are other materials and options out there, which our experts can assist you with to help you find the best choices for your requirements.

Thickness of PCBs

PCBs vary in thickness, with the standard PCB thickness typically falling around 0.063” (1.57 mm).

Deciding between single, double-sided and multi-layered is a significant consideration that has to match your PCB requirements and will depend on your objectives with the component. The thickness affects a PCB’s conductivity and resistance, and plays a major role in its functionality.

With no limitations on size, a single-layered PCB offers the most cost-effective option but if space is an issue, then it might serve your requirements better by looking at the other options.

A double-sided PCB enables both sides to be used, thus increasing performance and enabling you to work with a smaller design. Double-sided PCBs are often used in small devices, and while there is a growing trend in miniaturisation to keep up with the demands and technological advances of the modern world, the multi-layer PCB is playing the role of a backbone. Multi-layer PCBs are also offering extra durability, but as you might expect, the cost goes up.

Choosing the right thickness and materials is the first stage of the PCB manufacturing process. Once your design is complete, UK Circuits’ PCB prototyping ensures it functions as intended before progressing to the next phase of manufacturing your order.

 

UK Circuit’s approach

Seated at the helm of PCB manufacturing, the team at UK Circuits harnesses the latest practises and methods to provide a complete, solution-based approach to PCB and product design that matches your exact requirements. Every project must go through a rigorous PCB design phase, taking into account various aspects to ensure a successful outcome.

What sets UK Circuits apart is being able to offer a total, engineered solution that not only enables issues to be flagged, but also presents solutions from the outset.

A comprehensive, simulation, 3D modelling and rapid prototyping / 3D modelling offering enables a more complete prototype to be produced, one that is much closer to a functioning production model.

To find out more about what is required to make your PCBs the best they can be, contact our team at UK Circuits today on +44 (0)161 654 5969 or sales@ukcircuits.co.uk and let our experts unleash their engineering and technical support.