6 Types of PCBs

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are at the heart of every piece of electronic equipment. You can find various types of these components segregated by the manufacturing process, specifications, applications, and much more. Complex PCBs are tailored to meet the unique requirements of customers. Before choosing a PCB, you’d need to look at your application, space, and stability. Here are the types of PCBs to help you determine the one that best fulfills your needs.

Single-Sided PCBs

Single-Sided PCBs are the most common type of PCB available on the market. It comprises a substrate that is covered by a single conductive copper layer. You’ll find the electrical components soldered on the side of the board, while the other side will have the entire circuit. Due to these boards having a single conductive layer, the paths can’t intersect, and therefore it takes a lot of space.

These PCBs are ideal for low-density designs and basic and low-cost electrical equipment. You’d see single-sided PCBs used in calculators and small power supplies.

Double-Sided PCBs

In double-sided PCBs, a copper conducting material is added to both top and bottom sides of the component. The holes in the circuit board enable the connection of metal parts. Double-sided PCBs connect the circuits on both sides using a through-hole or surface mount method. They are used in various applications such as mobile phones, HVAC equipment, and UPS systems. They are cheaper than other types of PCBs and are perfectly suited for advanced electronic systems.

Multi-Layered PCBs

In multi-layered PCBs, you’ll find more than two copper conductive layers. The PCBs are sandwiched with double-sided conductive layers and insulating material sheets. These are soldered, bonded, and laminated together using high-pressure techniques to ensure no airflow in between. High-end mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and medical equipment use multi-layered PCBs. They are compact and are more robust compared to other PCBs.

Rigid PCBs

As the name suggests, PCBs cannot be folded or molded into different shapes. You’ll find a rigid substrate material that gives the board robustness and strength. They are also multi-layered, and you’ll find a copper, solder mask, and a silkscreen layer bundled together with adhesives. The drawback of such circuit boards is that they can’t be modified once manufactured. They have an extensive ability to absorb excess vibrations, are compact and lightweight, and are used in various applications.

Flex PCBs

If you want a PCB molded to your application, you should consider Flex PCBs. They are made from polyamide or polyether ketone. These boards can be found in a single-sided, multi-sided, or double-layered configuration. Flex PCBs save space and are more reliable than other equipment. They are suitable for signal trace density applications.

While choosing an EMS provider who can supply quality PCBs, you need to consider the costs, material, delivery time, and much more. We understand that such EMS suppliers can be hard to find; therefore, our Find An Ems platform is the perfect avenue for OEMs to find reliable manufacturers. You can find service providers expert in electronic design services, assembly services, electronic contract manufacturing services, and much more.

Please email us at info@findanems.com to learn more or visit our website for more information.