How Does a Flex PCB Manufacturer Support Customers?
Flex PCB Manufacturer Support Customers
In the recent past, the world has witnessed a phenomenal rise in demand for advanced technology products. This includes devices that enable burgeoning connectivity, lightning-fast data processing capabilities, and much more. While most of these advanced devices are manufactured on rigid PCBs, some have been built on flexible circuit boards. The latter have unique advantages including their ability to bend and contour to enclosures, eliminating the need for wiring harnesses and reducing the overall weight of the device.
For companies requiring high-quality flex pcb manufacturer, working with a top-notch manufacturer is critical for success. The right supplier will offer a wide range of engineering services, manufacturing capabilities and quality assurance testing, as well as competitive pricing. They should also be able to meet demanding production and delivery deadlines.
Considering the unique requirements of a flexible circuit, finding a qualified fabricator can be challenging. A seasoned manufacturer will have the expertise and knowledge to help you navigate the design and fabrication process from start to finish. To make the process as seamless as possible, you can ask for references and samples of previous work, and evaluate each prospect’s capabilities against your project’s specifications.
How Does a Flex PCB Manufacturer Support Customers?
To ensure a high-quality flex PCB, you need to choose the right materials. Most professionals opt for a copper-clad laminate (CCL) due to its superior thermal control and excellent performance in dynamic environments. However, the choice of material is dependent on your product’s specific application, such as its expected maximum allowed bending radius or environmental factors like moisture, chemicals, shock and vibration.
The first step in flex circuit design is creating a layout using PCB design software. This helps to define the expected mechanical and electrical requirements of your device, as well as the location of components and routing of traces. After the design is complete, output files are generated that are used to create the copper layers on the substrate. A photosensitive etch resist is applied to the film surfaces, and the desired mask pattern is exposed and developed prior to chemical etching of the copper. Afterwards, the drilled holes are plated with copper to provide an effective connection between the layers.
Finally, a solder mask is applied to protect the copper from corrosion and oxidation, as well as making it difficult for unintentional connections between different layers. This layer is also helpful in keeping the board clean and ready for assembly.
Depending on the design of your flex circuit, you may need to incorporate through-holes. These holes are plated with copper in order to connect components to the pads of your circuit board. They are also useful in maintaining the integrity of your flex circuit. Through-hole plating is generally performed with a 1 mil copper thickness, which is significantly thicker than the 1/2 mil core of a rigid PCB.