What Is a PCB?

Types of PCBs

The main types of PCBs include:

• Single-layer PCBs are the simplest type of PCBs and are coated with a single layer of conducting material and a layer of solder mask. The PCB’s components are marked with a silkscreen.
• Double-layer PCBs have a layer of conducting material on both the top and bottom of the board, which gives them more flexibility and a smaller size than single-layer PCBs.
• Multi-layer PCBs have more than two conductive layers and are used in more complex applications.

Other common types of PCBs include flexible PCBs, rigid PCB, and flex-rigid PCBs.

Materials Used

The substrate material for PCBs is usually fiberglass, composite epoxy or another laminate material. The conducting material on one or both sides of the board is most often copper. The printed circuits, which are plated or etched onto the substrate according to the design, are also made of copper. The circuits are coated with tin-lead to prevent oxidation. PCBs have contact fingers on their outer edges, which are also coated with tin-lead, as well as other materials, such as nickel and gold, to increase conductivity.

Applications

PCBs are used in a wide range of electronic devices, including consumer electronics, heavy machinery, robotics, vehicle components and medical equipment. Examples include:

• Computers
• Cell phones
• TVs
• Radios
• Printers
• Calculators
• Appliances
• Lighting systems
• Medical imaging systems
• Pacemakers
• Engine management systems
• Industrial controls
• Telecom towers
• Data storage equipment
• Satellite systems