Introduction to Thermal Pads in PCB Design In the world of printed circuit board (PCB) design, managing heat dissipation is a critical factor in ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of electronic components. One effective solution for minimizing heat loss is the use of thermal pads, specifically spoked copper pads, […]

What is a Multilayer PCB? A multilayer PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is a complex circuit board that consists of multiple layers of conductive copper foil laminated together with insulating material. These layers are interconnected through vias, which are small holes drilled through the board and plated with conductive material. Multilayer […]

Introduction to Thermal Conductivity in Printed Wiring Boards Printed Wiring Boards (PWBs), also known as Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), are essential components in modern electronic devices. They provide mechanical support and electrical connectivity for electronic components. As electronic devices become more compact and powerful, managing heat dissipation becomes a critical […]

Understanding PCB Thickness PCB thickness is typically measured in either millimeters (mm) or thousandths of an inch (mils). One mil equals 0.001 inch or 0.0254 mm. The thickness of a PCB is determined by the combined thickness of the copper layers, substrate material, and any additional layers such as solder […]

Introduction to Wire-to-Board Connections Connecting wires to a circuit board is a fundamental skill in electronics. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, knowing how to properly wire-to-board can save you time and ensure your projects function correctly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about […]

Introduction to Test Heads When configuring an automated test equipment (ATE) system to test electronic devices, one of the most critical components to select is the test head. The test head is the interface between the ATE and the device under test (DUT). It houses the pin electronics that generate […]

Types of PCB Assembly There are three main types of PCB assembly: through-hole assembly, surface mount assembly, and mixed assembly. Through-Hole Assembly Through-hole assembly is the traditional method of PCB assembly. It involves inserting the leads of electronic components through holes drilled in the PCB and soldering them to the […]

Introduction to MOSFETs Metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors, or MOSFETs, are voltage-controlled semiconductor devices widely used for switching and amplifying electronic signals. MOSFETs have revolutionized the electronics industry due to their high input impedance, fast switching speeds, and excellent power efficiency compared to bipolar junction transistors (BJTs). MOSFETs are divided into two […]

What is a Bare PCB? A bare printed circuit board, also known as a blank PCB, is the foundation of any electronic device. It is a flat, rigid board made of insulating material, typically fiberglass or composite epoxy, with conductive pathways etched onto its surface. These pathways, called traces, connect […]

What is PCB Etching? PCB etching is a critical process in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs) where unwanted copper is removed from the surface of the board, leaving behind the desired copper traces that form the electrical connections. Etching is typically performed using chemical solutions that selectively dissolve […]