Castellation PCB is a type of printed circuit board (PCB) that has a series of small, plated through holes along the edges of the board. These holes are used to create a connection between the board and other components in a circuit. This article delves into the design, manufacturing, and testing processes involved in creating castellation PCBs, providing insights into the key considerations and guidelines that engineers and manufacturers should follow to optimize their designs for performance, reliability, and manufacturability.   Close-up of the green kit circuit board Introduction Castellation PCB is a type of printed circuit board that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its unique […]

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are an essential component of nearly every electronic device, providing the foundation for the connections and features that enable functionality. As technology advances and devices become more complex, the importance of efficient and effective PCB layout design has become increasingly critical. This article will guide you through designing a PCB layout, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques and preparing for manufacturing.   Introduction Electronic devices rule our contemporary world. A PCB circuit board is present in all of them, whether they are smartphones with a continuous stream of notifications or widgets that passively monitor vital signs. To meet the rising demands of newer, quicker, […]

Chemical etching uses acidic chemicals to remove material and create an etched pattern on a metal surface. This article delves into the fundamental processes of chemical etching, its myriad applications, and nuanced techniques employed to achieve precision and perfection in the final product.   Electronic circuit chip (fabricated through chemical etching) Introduction In the intricate world of material fabrication and precision manufacturing, chemical etching is a powerful and versatile technique. This method, rooted in chemistry and metallurgy, has transcended its humble beginnings to become a cornerstone in creating intricate designs, fine patterns, and precision components. From the microscopic intricacies of electronic circuits to the artistic elegance of decorative metalwork, chemical etching […]

Testing PCBs involves using various methods and tools to ensure that all the individual elements of a PCB perform optimally, making up a high-quality PCB assembly. This article delves into the methods, procedures, and requirements of PCB testing. Electronic Circuit Board Introduction to PCB Testing Testing is integral to PCB manufacturing, ideally conducted throughout the production cycle to avoid errors in the final product. Early application of PCB design analysis techniques can minimize major issues during manufacturing. Various testing methods on physical boards, including prototypes and small-scale assemblies, focus on potential shorts, solder joint issues, and functionality, ensuring each PCB functions correctly. Hence maintaining the reliability and performance of electronic products. […]

Vias are small holes in a PCB that enable electrical connections between different layers of the board. In the context of PCB design, via tenting refers to the process of covering the vias with a protective layer, typically a solder mask or dry film. This protective layer shields the vias from environmental factors, such as dust, moisture, and chemicals, which can lead to corrosion or short circuits. As PCB technology continues to advance, the importance of via tenting in maintaining the performance and reliability of complex, high-density interconnect (HDI) and flexible PCB designs cannot be overstated. This guide explores the art and science of via tenting, shedding light on its […]

A microvia connects layers in HDI substrates and PCBs, enabling high input/output density in advanced packages. This article delves into the role and significance of microvias in modern electronics, exploring their impact on device miniaturization and functionality.   PCB with a green solder mask and high-density interconnects Introduction Microvias represent a crucial innovation in printed circuit board (PCB) design, marking a significant leap toward the miniaturization and enhanced functionality of electronic devices. These minute electrical connections are integral to multilayer PCBs, enabling interlayer connections in increasingly compact electronic assemblies. As the demand for smaller, faster, and more powerful electronic devices grows, microvias have become essential in meeting these stringent requirements. […]

Bare boards are the skeletal framework of printed circuit boards (PCBs). They are without electrical components which should have made it a fully functional PCB. This article details the uses, benefits, and drawbacks of bare boards, including the types of bare board testing.   Bare printed circuit board Introduction The bare printed circuit board is the foundational component of a printed circuit board, upon which other surface mounts or SMT components such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits are mounted and connected. The relative emptiness of the board allows technicians to conduct several tests to ensure suitability to the desired PCB design, and proactively correct errors where necessary. A bare […]