• Latest from Automation

    SiC JFET Empowers Next-Gen Switching Applications
    Dreamstime_Bernardo-Varela_13899324
    dreamstime_bernardovarela_13899324
    Dreamstime_Tero_Vesalainen
    ed_quick_poll_dreamstime_tero_vesalainen_promo
    ID 23149447 © Joe Sohm - ID 160236318 © Tea - Dreamstime.com
    id_23149447__joe_sohm__id_160236318__tea__dreamsti
    Heiko Kabutz
    mclari_spider_promo
    ID 36550735 © Barlic | Dreamstime.com
    factory_dreamstime_l_36550735
    Motor Driver Targets Medium-Voltage Applications
    Arch Systems
    arch_systems_ai_dashboard_vision_promo_image_web
    Dreamstime_Welcomia_33977184 and Kassow Robots
    gears_dreamstime_welcomia_33977184_promo

    Designing with Ultra-Thin, Flexible Printed Circuit Boards (.PDF Download)

    Sept. 18, 2017
    Designing with Ultra-Thin, Flexible Printed Circuit Boards (.PDF Download)

    Flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs) aren’t much different than rigid boards during the design phase, except that the designer must account for the mechanical complexity associated with flex circuits (Fig. 1). For instance, a flexible PCB can tear if flexed beyond its capability during installation.

    Therefore, it’s very important to create a mechanical model of the PCB and test it for a proper fit, before taking up the electrical design. This would also involve testing the ergonomics of the installation, any misalignments, and servicing. In addition, it necessitates that designers understand the different types of flex circuits available and the way they work.

    Types of Flexible PCBs

    Depending on the application, several types of flexible PCBs are available, chief among them being the flex, rigid-flex, and the high-density-interconnect (HDI) flex.

    Flexible PCBs

    These are flexible versions of the commonly available rigid PCBs, with unique capabilities such as flexibility and vibration resistance. The extra features come along with the usual reliability, repeatability, and high density already offered by rigid PCBs. The major advantage over rigid PCBs is flex circuits have the ability to assume three-dimensional configurations. One of the most common applications of flexible PCBs is as a replacement for wire harnesses.

    Rigid-Flex PCBs

    These PCBs are a blend of the rigid and flex, offering the best of both constructions, while adding some unique capabilities that neither possesses alone. For instance, a typical rigid-flex configuration would be a series of rigid PCBs linked by integrated flex circuits. By integrating rigid areas added to the flexible parts, designers can greatly increase the design capability of their circuits.

    While the rigid areas are excellent as hard mounting points for chassis, connectors, and components, the flex areas offer dynamic flexing, vibration-resistance zones, and flex-to-fit. Such blending offers designers multiple options for arriving at creative solutions for the most demanding applications.

    HDI Flexible PCBs

    High-density-interconnect PCBs are useful when the options offered by typical flexible circuits aren’t adequate. HDI flex circuits offer better design, layout, and construction options by incorporating fine features such as micro-vias. Increased functionality, smaller form factor, and highly dense flex circuitry are among their features.

    Download