The Engineering Projects

A Detailed Guide on PCB Manufacturing Process

Hi Friends! I welcome you on board. Happy to see you around. In this post today, I’ll document a detailed guide on the PCB manufacturing process.

PCB is hands down a crucial part of modern electronics. From cell phones and digital clocks to remote control and television sets, you will find inside a printed circuit board that connects the electrical components through sophisticated layers of copper traces. These electrical copper traces help in the flow of current through the connected components.

Needless to say, PCB has revolutionized the electronics industry. You’ll never find bulky electronics incorporated with scores of wires and electrical components. Nowadays, electronic devices are more compact and sophisticated, cover less space, and are capable of doing more functions than their predecessors.

• If you don’t want to dive into the nuts and bolts of this hectic PCB manufacturing process, you can outsource your PCB design. There are many online PCB Companies i.e. NextPCB, PCBWay, etc. that help you design your PCB according to your projects' needs & requirements.

• You can simply submit your details, and they will create the PCB design customized to your exact requirements.

A Detailed Guide on PCB Manufacturing Process

Circuit boards are mainly categorized into three main types. And all these types are used in different applications.

You need to understand the main difference between all these types, so you can pick the right one based on your requirement.

Main Types of Printed Circuit Board

The following are the three main types of circuit boards.

Single-sided Circuit Boards

Single-sided PCB, also known as single layer PCB, is made with the rigid laminate of woven glass epoxy material which carries one layer of copper traces on one side of the board and another side is used to place the different component on the board. These electrical components are electrically connected through copper traces on the board.

Double-sided Circuit Boards

Double-sided PCB, also known as two-layer PCB, is composed of the same rigid laminate of woven glass epoxy material as single-sided PCB, but here in this case both sides of the board are covered with copper traces. And mainly based on the applications, these traces are made with varying thicknesses.

Multiple-sided Circuit Boards

Multiple-sided PCBs are similar to single-sided or double-sided boards, but here in this case copper foil is used instead of copper coating. The copper foil continues to make multiple layers until you get the desired number of layers.

Main Parts of PCB

Before we study the complete manufacturing process, let’s discuss the main parts of the printed circuit board.

Substrate

This is the skeleton of PCB – the most basic structure. Fiberglass is used to make the substrate. Fiberglass extends the core strength to the PCB and keeps the board from breakage.

Copper Layer

The next part is the copper layer. Based on the type of PCB, copper foil or copper coating is used on one side or both sides of PCB. The purpose of this copper trace is to provide an electrical signal between the connected components on the board.

This is similar to the brain nervous system where neurotransmitters are connected with the muscles to collect and provide information to the brain.

Solder Mask

The third part is the solder mask. It is a protective layer made of a polymer that acts as a PCB skin. It protects the copper layer and keeps it from short-circuiting.

Silkscreen

Silkscreen, also known as legend or nomenclature, is the final part of the PCB. It is normally laminated on the components side of the board. This layer is used to represent symbol switch settings, logos, part number, test points, and component reference.

PCB Manufacturing Process

Hope you understand the main parts of the PCB. Now, let’s dig deep into the manufacturing process.

Step 1: The Design

It all starts with the basic design. A detailed PCB design is made on the dedicated PCB design software or you can also use online PCB design services to design your PCB.

Commonly used PCB design software is Eagle, Altium Designer, Pads, OrCad, KiCad, or Proteus, etc

Once the design is finalized, the file is exported. Make sure… you export file in the format that the manufacturers support. The commonly used file format is known as extended Gerber. Know that… different software include different Gerber file generation steps, however, they all include detailed information about drill drawing, copper tracking layers, component notations apertures, and other options.

Step 2: The Print

The plotted printer is used to print PCB. It generates the resultant film which is composed of various layers. The blank ink represents the conductive copper traces while the clear ink indicates the non-conductive areas. This is the representation of the inner layers. In outer layers, this trend is reversed i.e. the clear ink indicates the conductive copper traces and black ink indicates the non-conductive areas.

Step 3: The Substrate

The substrate is the skeleton of the PCB that is composed of fiberglass. This is an insulating material that connects the various elements.

Step 4: The layers

In this step, a laminate is created using the blueprints. This laminate is then covered with the photo-sensitive film which is also called a resist. This resist is composed of photo-reactive chemicals which when exposed to UV light, hardens the resist.

Step 5: Hardening the Photoresist Layer

The next step involves the revealing of underlying copper pathways. This is done by hardening the photoresist layer.

When a combination of laminate and resist is sent to the room under UV light, it hardens the photoresist layer.

Step 6: Removing Unwanted Copper

This step involves the removal of unwanted copper. An alkaline solution is employed to get rid of unwanted copper. Make sure during this process, it doesn’t harm the photoresist layer.

Step 7: Inspection

In this step, layer alignment and optical inspection are carried out. The inner and outer layers are aligned by the holes. A punch machine is used to make sure everything is aligned and in place.

Step 8: Lamination Process

At step 8, inner and outer layers are pushed together for the lamination. These layers are fused together once they are inspected, making sure they are defect-free.

Epoxy resin known as Prepreg is used with the metal clamps to keep these layers in place. The layer of substrate and copper coil is placed over the Prepreg. A mechanical press is then used to punch everything together where specialized pins are used to keep each layer in place. The PCB layers are fused together in the presence of epoxy that melts down due to applied heat and pressure. The top press plate and pins are then removed to pull out the actual PCB.

Step 9: Drilling

After the lamination, there comes the drilling process. But before initiating the drilling process, drill spots are located using an X-ray machine.

A computer-guided drill is used to create holes. After the drilling process, additional leftover copper at the edges is removed.

Step 10: PCB Plating

Once the drilling step has been completed, a certain chemical is used to fuse all layers together. This process is known as PCB Plating.

The PCB layers are then thoroughly cleansed together in a series of chemicals. This bathing process applies the copper layer on the top of the layer and in between the drilled holes.

Step 11: Outer Layer Imaging

After PCB Plating has been completed, another layer of photoresist is applied to the outer layers of the design. Which gets harden in the presence of UV light.

After coating the outer layers with photoresist, they are again fused together in the presence of certain chemicals like we did for inner layers in the previous PCB plating step. Though the plating process is the same as the previous step, the outer layers develop the plating of tin, thus guarding the copper of the outside layer.

Step 12: The Last Etching

The tin guard developed in the last out layer imaging is used to protect the copper layer during the etching of the outside layer. The same copper solvent is used to remove the unwanted copper while the tin guard continues to protect the copper of the outside layer.

Step 13: Applying the Solder Mask

The proper PCB connections have been developed once the unwanted copper is removed. Now comes the solder masking. The final panels are cleaned before applying the solder mask. Once the cleansing is done, solder mask film is applied with ink epoxy.

The final product is then exposed to UV light to remove the unwanted solder mask. After the removal of the unwanted solder mask, the PCB is heated in the oven that cures the solder mask and results in the green color of the PCB panels.

Step 14: Final Surface Finish

The final surface finish is achieved by the plating of materials like silver and gold. This surface finish results in developing the core strength and improves the bonding of the elements.

Once the plating with gold and silver is achieved, the resulting product is then silkscreened. The necessary information including company ID numbers, manufacturer marks, and warning labels have been printed on the PCB during this silk screening process.

Step 15: Electrical Testing

Once the final surface finish has been completed, the entire PCB goes through a series of electrical tests to ensure functionality.

These electrical tests include isolation and circuit continuity tests. The isolation tests scan the isolation values of PCB to ensure if there is any short circuit. While the circuit continuity test confirms if there are any disconnections in any area of the board. These tests not only confirm the board’s functionality but also how the initial PCB design is observed during this manufacturing process.

Moreover, these tests can be applied both ways: in the automated environment or under the supervision of a practiced technician.

• If you don’t want to dive into the nuts and bolts of this hectic PCB manufacturing process, you can outsource your PCB design. PCBWay Fabrication House helps you design your PCB for the required project.

• You can simply submit your details, and they will create the PCB design customized to your exact requirements.

Step 16: Final Cutting Step

Once the final product is run through a series of electrical tests, there comes a cutting process that results in removing and cutting the PCB from the original panel. You can cut PCBs from the original panel using V-groove or CNC machine.

Your final PCB product design is now ready that you can use in your electrical project.

That’s all for today. I hope you find this article helpful. If you’re unsure or have any questions, you can pop your query in the section below. I’d love to help you the best way I can. Feel free to share your valuable suggestions and feedback around the content we share so we keep sharing quality content customized to your exact needs and requirements. Thank you for reading the article.

Top 10 Free Circuit Simulators for Engineering Students

Hi Friends! Hope you’re well today. I welcome you on board. In this post today, I’ll walk you through the Top 10 Free Circuit Simulators for designing electronic projects. It's our 6th chapter in the PCB learning series.

I am sharing this list of circuit simulators because you must simulate your circuit before designing its PCB. You’ll find scores of circuit simulators online. In this read, I’ve compiled the famous circuit simulators that help you design a circuit diagram for your electronics project. By designing these circuit simulations, you could text/debug your circuit. You can test it online before spending money on the real hardware. This will save you both time and money.

So, let’s get started:

Top 10 Free Circuit Simulators for Engineering Students

Following you’ll discover the top 10 free circuit simulators for engineering students.

1. Circuit IO Online Simulator

Bring your project to life with Circuit IO Online Circuit Simulator. Instantly get a test code and wiring guide for your electronic project. Developed by Autodesk, Circuit.Io gives you the ability to program the Arduino board with this circuit simulator. Get IoT solutions for your Arduino project. You can also purchase a component from this platform for your electrical project. Again, this is an open-source simulator, which means you can use it free of cost.

2. EasyEDA Circuit Simulator

EasyEDA is a powerful and robust PCB design online tool. If you’re a beginner, this simulator works best for you. As it comes with a simple interface and easy-to-use schematic capture. You cannot only design your electrical project, but you can also share it online for others to get a hold of your work. Other features include a PCB layout and a mixed-mode circuit simulator. Pick from more than one million free libraries. Design high-quality PCB in a cross-platform browser environment. The best part – you can use this simulator free of cost as this is an open-source simulator. You can Import different files including Altium/Kicad/Eagle, PNG, DXF If you find difficulty in designing the simulation, you can get help from the guide.

3. EveryCircuit PCB Simulator

Design your electrical project with EveryCircuit. Incorporate simulation into your web page, right from your system or smartphone. EveryCircuit app is available for both Android and iOS users. Test your design and share it with the online community of thousands of members. With custom-built circuit simulation, develop an arbitrary circuit and test it online. Get hold of dynamic parameters with impressive animated presentation of various designs. This platform is effective for beginners as it houses scores of already built simulations that you can learn from and build yours from scratch.

4. DcAcLab Circuit Simulator

DcAcLab helps you design your project in an online browser. It offers an interactive interface with a user-friendly easy-to-use simulator. Pick from a range of readymade circuit simulations or design your own from scratch. No registration is required to make simulations. Plus you get the option to share your work with the online community. They keep on updating their simulator to provide the best user experience. This online simulator comes with current flow and electron flow mode, helping you better understand the circuit with fantastic visuals.

5. PartSim Circuit Simulator

PartSim is another platform to test your circuit on the fly. It is a unique simulator of its type that includes a SPICE simulation engine, graphic waveform viewer, and web-based schematic capture tool. It is an open-source platform which means you can use it free of cost. You can purchase parts for your electrical circuits from vendors. This simulator is recently introduced so you will get few components to make simulations.

6. TinaCloud Online Circuit Simulator

TinaCloud is a web-based version of famous Tina software. You don’t need to install anything to use this simulator. It will run in your online browser. TinaCloud is an easy-to-use simulator that helps you design both digital and analog electronic circuits. It gives you the ability to do calculations for simulation on the company server. TINACloud comes with unique online tools for checking the knowledge of students, where you can monitor progress online. TinaCloud also gives access to the application circuits of Infineon Designer. Moreover, the designs developed in Infineon Designer can be uploaded and used by TinaCloud.

7. FalStad Online Simulator for Circuits

FalStad is a web-based simulator that comes with an easy-to-use interface, best for beginners. You can use it free of cost as it is an open-source platform. No registration is required. Moreover, it gives you an option to control current speed and simulation speed. And the signals are shown with colors. For example, green color represents positive voltage and grey color represents the ground. And the red color indicates negative voltage. You can modify a component by hovering the mouse over it, then right-click and choose “Edit”.

8. MultiSim Simulator for Electronic Circuits

MultiSim is an online simulator that comes with SPICE software that helps you learn, create and share circuits online with the rest of the community. It is an open-source simulator which means you can use it free of cost. Start your new design with Create Circuit button. Go to Circuits > Public Circuits where you can get a hold of the circuits shared by others. This way you can learn and get an idea to build your design from scratch. You can use this simulator from the computer or cell phone. Schematics are easily accessible for anyone to use anywhere. Multisim provides a unique schematic layout experience in web browsers.

9. CircuitVerse Circuit Simulator Online

CircuitVerse is another great option to design your circuits with style. No installation is required as you can use this simulator directly from the web browser. You can build your circuits and share them online for others to see and learn about your circuits. If you don’t know how to use it, this platform comes with a getting-started guide with video tutorials that detail how to design your first circuit.

10. Circuits-Cloud Online Simulator

Circuits-Cloud is an online simulator that you can use from anywhere. It is an open-source simulator that offers both digital and analog simulations. This works best for beginners. No installation is required but you need to create an account first to use this simulator online.

Conclusion

That’s all for today. With this article today, we have completed the first section of the PCB tutorial i.e. converted all the basic PCB-related concepts. From the next tutorial onward, we will start our second section where we will cover slightly difficult PCB concepts. So, the next article will be on Through-Hole Technology.

I hope you find this article helpful. If you have any questions regarding the designing of these circuit simulations, you can approach me in the section below. I’m happy and willing to help you the best way I can. Feel free to share your valuable feedback and suggestions around the content we share so we keep coming back with quality content based on your exact needs and requirements. Thank you for reading the article.

10 Must-Have Tools for PCB Designing

Hi Guys! Hope you’re well today. I welcome you on board. In this post today, I’ll walk you through 10 must-have tools for PCB designing. If you’re a hobbyist or working as a professional electronics engineer in some company, you need to execute electrical projects on and off. And needless to say, designing a PCB is a crucial part of an electrical project. Scores of tools are available online and it’s difficult for you to choose the right pick for your project.

10 Must-Have Tools for PCB Designing

The reason I have pulled together the 10 best software tools that you can use to design the printed circuit board. Some are better than others. Plus, some are free to use and a few of them are paid software, I’ll describe the main features of both of them, helping you better understand the benefits and privileges you can avail while working with these software tools.   After PCB design, there comes a manufacturing process. You can manufacture PCB yourself. This is a quite lengthy and hectic process. If you don't want to dive into this intimidating process, you can outsource your project. PCBWay is a great service provider that helps you develop PCB as per your PCB design. They come with a team of a skilled professional that helps you design PCB and update you right from the order you place online to the installation of the product into a relevant project. Let’s jump right in and discuss 10 must-have tools for PCB designing.

1. Altium Designer

Developed by Altium Limited, Altium Designer is one of the most popular and leading software companies that provides the most connected experience for the PCB design and realization. They have completely transformed the electronics industry with their innovative and intuitive software design. Key features include effortless design automation, auto-router, schematic designs, PCB module, supports track length tuning, centralized and trusted design assets, facility to verify the design in the mechanical world, endless engineering reach, and customizable Altium designer environment that meets the user requirements. The main document editing area and the workspace panels are the two main elements included in the Altium Designer environment.

2. DipTrace

DipTrace is a paid PCB software tool that comes with unique interfaces and smart manual routing. It incorporates a shape-based auto-router and single environment with back annotation, updating from schematic and direct circuit-to-board converting. The placement feature offers a simple drag and drop option that you can customize as per your liking. DipTrace offers support for Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and Windows 10. Both 32 and 64-bit versions of Vista and Windows 7 are supported. Moreover, you can install the trial version before you make a final decision on the paid version. You can install the DipTrace on more than two computers with the same license key.

 3. SolidWorks PCB

SOLIDWORKS is a powerful tool that combines the PCB and CAD design for impeccable collaboration. Laced with the best technology, the interface is well designed and easy to use. Provides flawless design experience with SOLIDWORKS CAD. Maintains work design workflow by completing PCB design quickly without much effort. Electrical product design is simplified with specific tools and intuitive interfaces support embedded electrical system design.

4. KiCad EDA

Initially released by Jean-Pierre Charras in 1992 and followed by the development by KiCad Developer Team, KiCad EDA is open-source design software that comes with a 3D viewer, PCB layout with Gerber output, and schematic capture. Easy to use interface supports 32 layers where you can design boards quickly. Few features like online remote desktop support, rapid fixed, and private issue-reporting are offered by the KiCad Service Corporation that is a full-service commercial support corporation. KiCad 5.1.8 is the latest released version of KiCad that comes with crucial bug fixes and other minor changes compared to its previous release. Other features include 3D model libraries, symbols, improved footprint, translations, and documentation.

5. DesignSpark

DesignSpark is a powerful PCB design software that offers schematics capture and PCB layout design. No limitation is put on the size of the schematic diagram – take the size as much as you want as per the design requirements. Apart from accessing the ready to use embedded libraries, you can create your models in the library editor. This software is free for you to design the PCB layout. Moreover, you get an option to make unrestricted Gerber files.

6. Eagle

Eagle is a powerful software that comes with intuitive interface design, helping you create PCB boards on the fly. It incorporates a routing engine, allowing you to pace through complex PCB layout design with advanced PCB routing tools. This is a paid tool. You need to pay 15$ for a per month subscription and 100$ for a per year subscription. This software is equipped with ready-made part libraries that allow you to quickly access library content. Get a hold of the free trial version before making a final decision to buy a subscription. Autodesk trial versions allow you to dig deep and enjoy the full capabilities of the latest versions for a limited duration of 30 days. The trial version will automatically expire if you don’t put your payment details at the start of the trial.

7. CircuitMaker

Powered by Altium, CircuitMaker is a free open-source PCB design tool that comes with a community of designers and engineers who collaborate to create new electronic products. No limit is put on the layer count, or board areas, you can create as many layers as you want with customizable board size. Moreover, it is equipped with reference designs that you can use to get ideas for making your design. Also, you get the ability to set up teams for the making of collaborative designs. The hierarchical schematic entry and powerful routing with native 3D technology have been included to help you experience advanced features developed by Altium developers.

8. OrCad

OrCad is an easy to use PCB design software tool that offers a complete environment where you can start from the initial schematic to the development of final artwork. Enjoy effective and user-friendly OrCad technologies that are incorporated with fully integrated simulations.

9. FreePCB

FreePCB is an open-source PCB design tool that helps engineers produce seamless high-quality professional work. This software tool doesn’t come with autorouter, however, you can integrate FreeRout (web-based autorouter) with FreePCB. Take board size up to 60-inch x 60-inch. Use the footprint editor for customizing the footprints. Plus, you can develop up to 16 copper layers. Get an option to export an extended Gerber file.

10. Express PCB

ExpressPCB is an open-source free PCB design tool. And if you’re a hobbyist or getting your hands dirty first time with the PCB design, this software is for you. It is supported by Windows, XP, and Vista. It carries a standardized user interface, helping you design two or four-layer boards. Plus, you get an option if you’re willing to draw a schematic first. It is supported with a drag and drop feature. That’s all for today. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article. If you have any questions, you can ask me in the comment section below. I’d love to help you the best way I can. Feel free to share your valuable suggestions and feedback around the content we share so we keep sharing quality content customized to your exact needs. Thank you for reading the article.

How To Build the PCB Best - JLCPCB

Hello Professional! Welcome to The Engineering Projects. We hope you are having a productive day. Today we'll talk about the building process of Printed Circuit Board with great efficiency and creativity. It's hard-won to run an industrial company. What’s the reason? One is  the bosses who have earned money quickly expand their business footprint not only focus on PCB,  not delve into how to provide higher-quality PCB and more extreme customer service; also many bosses think more about engaging in financing and listing. How about JLCPCB?Yes, JLCPCB has planted into the PCB with all its heart, just keeping one aim: build the PCB best. JLCPCB was founded in 2006, used to be the leading PCB company, now it is PCB industry big brother, who is highly appreciated and trusted by hardware fields. When JLCPCB makes a mistake, people will say all they know  without reserve. If the proposes will benefit the PCB users, JLCPCB takes act upon it without reserve. All we believe 15 years could build such solid and close relationship between customer and merchants. All suggestions and feedback from customers about production efficiency, PCB quality, customer service and logistics situation will be valued by JLCPCB team. CEO Yuan was also a young electronic engineer before, and spent a lot of time in designing, developing, and testing components, devices and systems in a small PCB factory. Now he has grown up to be JLCPCB leader and is keen on optimizing and developing automatic production lines,  intelligent factory management and brand new SMT assembly methods. He knows how sad it is for an electronic engineer to lack a good and inexpensive PCB board. His regret will not become the regret of a new generation of electronic engineers, so he insists on the PCB industry for more than 20 years, insists on low price but high quality PCBs for customers, and strives for excellence in craftsmanship and customer service. $2 for 5 PCBs, and $7 Start SMT assembly.  Mr. Yuan elucidated, “The profit of the PCB industry is very transparent. Low price, superior quality, fast delivery. The essence is contradictory.” He added, “the only way to solve this contradiction: large production with the fully automated factory.”  Yes, PCBs with high quality, low-cost and quick logistics must reach a certain scale of production to earn profits, 100% true. JLCPCB  fully automated factory is indispensable. So far, it has 5 fully automated factories for 600,000 ? per month, 9 SMT production lines 12-hour fast assembly 35,000,000+ parts monthly. JLCPCB hopes to help engineers and companies to access most economic, best and innovative PCB service. We are trying to meet and exceed loyal users' expectations in price, service and production. Even in 2020, it made these new attempts:

• The SMT production plant was relocated  to an advanced factory, expanding from the previous 32 machines to 72 placement machines.
• expanded from the original 4 SMT production lines to 9 SMT production lines to support more production.
• Parts have increased from 30,000 kinds to more than 80,000 kinds.
• Added black, blue, red  PCB assembly service.

JLCPCB was also encountered many difficulties in Feb. 2020 because of the COVID-19 epidemic, which resulted in a bit longer PCB turnaround time and SMT order production delay. And the lead time has become as fast as before since March,2020. We redistributed the staff, and reorganized the equipment and manpower to make the production line run more and more smoothly. Of course, this is achieved when we ensure that our own employees are sufficient and well paid. That's why we always say methods are more than difficulties. Good products should be used by more people, especially people who desire high-standard  hardware.For foreign customers, the first impression of JLCPCB is "$2 for 5 PCB" which has successfully entered the customers' sight. People may curious about a "comprehensive JLCPCB" besides what they see online:where is the factory of JLCPCB ? What is the factory like? Who are the members of the JLCPCB team? Distance makes obstacles, however how JLCPCB shorten the distance with foreign customers.We would like to customize some small gifts randomly placed in the customer's boxes. As the boxes flow to all corners of the world, people will receive our greetings. Little gifts are always appreciated and collected by the friendly users. For customers JLCPCB is a strong backer , thoughtful and caring. For JLCPCB, they are creative and productive talent.Their hardware projects promote the development of technology and are also changing people's lifestyles and the pattern of the world. Equipping and optimizing is JLCPCB 2021 target. JLCPCB are going to increase  SMT part kinds, optimize the ordering process, and improve SMT quality while fastening turnaround time. In addition, it will add a 10,000 square meter plant with 100 SMT machines for small batch orders, also it can support double-sided SMT for any thickness. Every new attempt requires courage, and every “first” also requires more courage.JLCPCB, the first one to establish a fully automatic factory; the first to use the ERP system for online ordering; the first to cooperate with Alipay; the first to have ‘non-stop production in CNY holidays”. With a 15-year history, JLCPCB has taken every step steadily and will not waiver for any difficulties. JLCPCB believes building PCB best is the right way to gain customer retention. Chinese New Year holiday is around the corner. JLCPCB users know that we keep production on holidays, even during the Chinese New Year Holidays. Certainly we will be here to serve everyone,1&2 layers PCBs, SMT assembly and Stencil will keep producing. Better late than never, we wish everyone a happy new year, stay healthy!

A Detailed Guide on PCB Fabrication Process

Hi Friends! Happy to see you around. Thank you for clicking this read. In this post today, I’ll document a detailed guide on the PCB fabrication process. PCB is commonly used in modern electronics. If you uncover the TV set and have a look inside, you’ll find a printed circuit board, electrically connecting components on the board. There are copper traces incorporated on the board to electrically connect the components and provide the current flow from one part to another. These printed boards make devices precise and compact that are capable of doing more functions than the devices where the end to end wiring is used. Circuit boards are divided into three main types. Let’s discuss each type one by one so you can better understand the structure of each type before employing them in the relevant application.

If you don’t want to undergo this intimidating fabrication process of the board, you can get help from the online PCB manufacturers. We are quite satisfied with PCBWay services, so I am going to recommned this one.

PCBWay is a great place to get your ready-made PCBs. Simply submit your details, and they will return the PCB quote for the given project, which you’ll get within 2-5 business days. They have a team of professionals, ready to guide you throughout the process.

Main Types of Printed Circuit Board

Circuit boards are categorized into three types.

Single-sided Circuit Boards

Single-sided PCB, also called single layer PCB, is composed of woven glass epoxy material which is incorporated with copper traces on one board side and another board side is utilized to put components on the board. These copper traces electrically connect the different components on the board.

Double-sided Circuit Boards

Double-sided PCB, also called two-layer PCB, is made of the same rigid woven glass epoxy material that is used in single-sided PCB, and there’s a little difference. Here both board sides are incorporated with the copper traces. And traces are kept with different thicknesses depending on the application.

Multiple-sided Circuit Boards

In Multi-layer PCB copper foil is employed rather than a copper coating. This copper foil helps in the construction of different layers until you reach the required number of layers.

Main Parts of PCB

Let’s elaborate on the basic parts of the PCB before documenting the fabrication process.

Substrate

This is termed as the PCB skeleton – the most fundamental structure of the board. Fiberglass is utilized to construct the substrate material. Fiberglass confirms the core strength, making board strong, stern, and solid.

Copper Layer

The following part is the copper layer. Depending on the PCB type, copper coating or copper foil is employed on one side or the two sides of PCB. This copper layer is used to provide an electrical connection between the board’s components. This is like the nervous system of the brain that contains neurotransmitters to communicate with the body muscles.

Solder Mask

On the third number comes the solder mask. It is a defensive layer composed of a polymer that goes about as a PCB skin. It helps in securing the copper layer. It also helps protect the board from short-circuiting.

Silkscreen

Silkscreen, also called legend or nomenclature, is the last part of the PCB. It is normally smeared on the board’s component side. This layer is utilized to demonstrate logos, switch settings, part number, test points, and component reference.

PCB Fabrication Process

In this part, we’ll demonstrate the PCB fabrication process in detail.

Step 1: The Initial Design

Everything begins with the fundamental design. A comprehensive PCB design is made on the software. There are multiple software used for the PCB design including Altium Designer, Eagle, OrCad, Pads, Proteus or KiCad When the design is made, the document is then exported. Most manufacturers support the extended Gerber file… so be sure your final document is exported in the Gerber file. It is important to know that different software comes with different Gerber file generation steps, however, all these software constitute comprehensive information about copper tracking layers, drill drawing, component notations apertures, and other options.

Step 2: The Print Process

The PCB is printed using the plotted printer. It produces the resultant film which is made of different layers. The black ink shows the conductive copper traces on the other hand the clear ink represents the non-conductive portions. This is used for inner layers. On the layers outside this pattern is switched for example the clear ink demonstrates the conductive copper traces and black ink shows the non-conductive regions.

Step 3: The Substrate Material

Recall, the substrate is considered as the skeleton of the PCB that is made of fiberglass. This fiberglass behaves like an insulating material that is used to connect the various elements.

Step 4: The layers

In the fourth step, resist is made that is composed of photosensitive film. Photo-reactive chemicals are used in this resist. When these chemicals come under the UV light, it helps in hardening the resist.

Step 5: Hardening the Photoresist Layer

In this step, underlying copper pathways are revealed. Which is achieved by hardening the photoresist layer. The photoresist layer gets hardened when a combination of resist and laminate is exposed to the UV light.

Step 6: Removal of Unused Copper

In this step, unwanted copper is removed. Unwanted copper is removed using the alkaline solution. While you’re at this process, be careful that it doesn’t affect the photoresist layer.

Step 7: Inspection

Optical inspection and layer alignment are done in this step. Both the outer and inner layers are aligned using the holes. Everything is aligned using the punch machine.

Step 8: Lamination Process

At stage 8, both outer and inner layers are pushed together for the cover. These layers are fused whenever they are examined, ensuring they are without any defect. These layers are aligned using the Prepreg made of epoxy resin. Metal clamps are used to set everything in place. The Prepreg material is covered with the substrate and copper foil. Everything is kept in place using pins and the mechanical press is employed to punch everything together. When heat and pressure are applied to the epoxy material, it melts down causing layers to fuse together. The actual PCB is then removed by removing the pins and press plates.

Step 9: Drilling Process

After stage 8, the drilling process is carried out. An X-ray machine is used to locate the drill spots before applying drilling on the layers. Holes are created using a computer-guided drill. Leftover copper is then removed after the drilling process is completed.

Step 10: PCB Plating

After the drilling process, a specific compound is applied to weave all layers together. This process is called PCB plating. A series of chemicals are then used to cleanse the PCB layers. The copper layer is applied between the drilled holes and on the top of the layer during this bathing process.

Step 11: Outer Layer Imaging

Another layer of photoresist is employed at the PCB outer layers once the PCB plating is done. This photoresist layer is then exposed to UV light which hardens this layer. In this process, again PCB plating is applied using certain chemicals that again helps in fusing the layers together. The process is similar as we did in the last PCB plating process. The copper appears on the PCB outside layer is secured by the plating of tin which is developed around the outer layers.

Step 12: The Etching Process

The tin guard is created during the last process. During the etching of this outer layer, the tin guard is utilized to secure the copper layer. After this process, unused copper is removed while the tin guard developed during the last process still protects the copper present on the outside layer.

Step 13: Applying the Solder Mask

When the unused copper is removed it results in the making of proper PCB connections. In this step, we do solder masking. The final PCB panels now undergo the bathing process before we employ the solder mask. Ink proxy is used with the solder mask after the cleaning process has been finished. Then the product undergoes the UV light which results in the removal of the unused solder mask. After this step, we put PCB in the oven that develops the green colors on the PCB panels.

Step 14: Final Surface Finish

In this step silver and gold materials are applied to produce the final surface finish. These materials ensure the core strength of the PCB layers and help in improving the elements bonding. After plating the PCB layers with materials like silver and gold, silk-screening is applied. In this silk screening process the necessary details like manufactures marks, company ID, warning labels are then applied to the layers of PCB.

Step 15: Electrical Testing

In this step, electrical tests are applied to the PCB layers to confirm the functionality of the PCB layers. Two tests are applied… one is a circuit continuity test and the other is the isolation test.

Step 16: Final Cutting Step

In this final step cutting process is carried out the removes the PCB from the original pane. A CNC machine or V-groove is used to remove PCB from the original panel. The final PCB is now ready to be used in an electrical project. That’s all for today. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article. If you’re unsure or have any questions, you ask me in the section below. I’d love to help you the best way I can. You’re most welcome to share your valuable suggestions and feedback around the content we share so we keep sharing quality content tailored to your exact needs and requirements. Thank you for reading the article.

PCB Design Online Services for Engineering Students

Hi Friends! Hope you’re well today. I welcome you on board. Happy to see you around. In this post today, I’ll detail PCB Design Online Services for Engineering Students. PCB designing is a crucial part of making some electrical projects. If you’re a student, you can leverage these services to design PCB online. You can design many PCB layouts for a single layer or multilayer PCB. Moreover, you can test simulation online and see how your design is working that you’re going to execute in real-time.

PCB Design Online Services for Engineering Students

You’ll find a list of online PCB design services. And I can understand, when you’re given a lot of options, it is very difficult to choose the best pick. The reason I have got you covered. In this post, I’ll detail the best PCB online services that you can get online. Some are easy to use and are better than others and give you the ability to design your PCB on the fly. These online design services are open source, which means you can leverage these services free of cost. From making single-sided PCB to multi-layer PCB and from designing complex schematic diagrams to creating final layouts, you can benefit and execute everything online. Plus, these services help you connect with renowned designers online who can give feedback on the submitted designs.

• Know that… if you find this design process difficult, you can purchase PCB design services from outside.
• PCBWay is a great platform to help you design a single layer or multi-layer PCBs. They incorporate a team of skilled professionals that go the extra mile to help you with your circuit design.

• PCBWay is not a broker. They are a PCB manufacturer and PCB assembler. This means you come in direct contact with the PCB producer once you contact them online.

This was a brief introduction to the PCB services online. Let’s jump right in and elaborate further on these services.

1. Library.io

• Library.io is a remarkable online service that helps you design PCB online. It features many components in the library, moreover, in case you don’t find the required component in the library, you can design your own.
• As this is an online service, apart from creating your design, you can see what other designers are doing online. You can have a look at their designs and duplicate content you find useful or appropriate for your design.

• Yes, you can duplicate design because this is an open-source service where you can design your design free of cost, and in case you need any help from skilled professionals, you can just communicate and collaborate with them and get feedback on your design.

• You can create your design, use them in EAGLE libraries, sync them with Fusion 360, and export them for further usage in your preferred CAD system.

2. CircuitLab

CircuitLab is an online simulator for creating your PCB design. Design with your easy to use and advanced schematic editor. No installation is required and you can launch this simulator with just one click.

• Make analog and digital simulation within a few seconds. Moreover, you can get help from professional schematic PDF files, wiring diagrams, and plots.
• In case you find any difficulty in using this program, you can watch an introductory demo that helps you understand all nuts and bolts of this platform.
• It is free to use and comes with scores of already made schematic diagrams and PCB layouts which give you a good starting point to initiate your design process.
• One important thing – CircuitLab gives you the ability to make your unique circuit URL which you can use to share your designs online. And this also helps you develop your unique presence online.
• A nice, smooth and seamless interface helps you work with multiple signals at once with configurable plotting windows, vertical and horizontal markers, and calculations on signals.

3. Upverter

• Upverter is another amazing tool in the club – A solution for all your electrical design needs.
• Design schematics diagrams and PCB layouts anywhere anytime right from the comfort of your home.

• It is incorporated with popular community projects for you to review. Apart from team collaboration, you can leverage free cloud storage with simple and easy to use CAD tools.
• Plus, the forum is also available where you can communicate and collaborate with the engineers who are working on similar designs. They will help you design your PCB layout and create schematic diagrams.

• PCB layouts are available on the online browser where you don’t need to install any software. You can simply work with them within seconds.
• And reverting to the previous state from the current design helps you carefully generate your layout without constantly worrying about your design.
• And this platform keeps a full track record of the files you worked on in the past, setting you free from the safety and security of your designs.

4. EasyEDA

• EasyEDA is an online PCB design and circuit simulator.
• It features scores of libraries with more than 1 million real-time updated components and an integrated LCSC component catalog.
• Plus, you can create and import your common libraries.

• You can use this online service anywhere on your Linux, MAC, or Windows operating system.

• This platform is hosted on several servers, giving you a fast and quick web browser, where you can save your files in the cloud server which can be easily accessed by you and anyone you authorize.
• You can leverage hundreds of thousands of open-source private projects. From schematic capture to PCB design and libraries design to project management, this platform keeps you covered.

That’s all for today. I hope you find this post helpful. If you’re unsure or have any questions, you can pop your query in the section below. I’d love to help you the best way I can. Feel free to share your valuable suggestions and feedback around the content we share so we keep producing quality content customized to your exact needs and requirements. Thank you for reading the article.

How to Calculate PCB Trace Width

Hi Guys! Hope you’re well today. I welcome you on board. Thank you for clicking this read. In this post today, I’ll discuss how to calculate PCB trace width? The PCB (printed circuit board) is a mechanical layout that electrically connects different components on the board using conductive copper traces that maintained current throughout the circuit board. Different electrical components are placed on the non-conductive substrate which are soldered from the other side of the board. On the non-conductive side of the board copper traces electrically connect these components. Earlier end-to-end wiring was used in place of PCB boards but now it’s become obsolete. Needless to say, PCB has revolutionized the modern electronics that are precise and compact and cover less space compared to devices where wire wrap and point to point construction is used. Thanks to technology… nowadays, electrical devices are more sophisticated, economical and are capable of performing more functions than their predecessors. That was all the little intro about printed circuit boards. Let’s dive in and elaborate on how to calculate the PCB trace width.

How to Calculate PCB Trace Width

Before we move further and discuss how to calculate PCB trace width, let’s first define what PCB traces are, and why they are used.

Copper Traces

The base of the PCB is made of a substrate which is fiberglass. And most common fiberglass is composed of FR4 material. This substrate material is non-conductive and provides the core strength and rigidity to the board. On top of the substrate is the copper trace. These traces are conductive and electrically connect different electrical components on the board. They come with varying thickness depending on the applications they are used in. The capacity of the current passing through the copper traces mainly defines the width of the copper trace. More width of copper trace allows more amount of current to flow. If the PCB is a one-layer PCB, then the copper traces are laminated on one side of the board. If it is a two-layer PCB then copper traces are laminated on both sides of the board. Multiple-layer PCB can support up to 16 layers of copper traces on board.

Formula to Calculate Trace Width

The equation to calculate the width of the trace is given below.

Width [mils] = Area[mils^2]/(Thickness[oz]*1.378[mils/oz]) 

… where 1.378 is related to standard 1 ounce pour thickness. So, before calculating the width we must know the trace area which can be calculated by the following equation. Trace area can be calculated by the following equation:

Area [mils²] = (Current[Amps] / (k*( Temp_Rise[°C] )^b) )^(1/c) 

… where for external layer, k = 0.048, b = 0.44, c = 0.725. … and for internal layers value of ‘k’ will change and it will become 0.024 while both value of ‘b’ and ‘c’ remains same. This equation to calculate area tells us how wider the trace needs to be to conduct current without any potential issues. It is important to note that the required widths of traces for inner layers are commonly higher compared to the width of traces on the outer layers. You can use any width depending on the application. -- Know that… after designing the PCB on any software, you need to fabricate the board which you can fabricate yourself. If you don’t want to involve yourself in the hassle of fabrication of PCB right from the scratch, you can outsource the manufacturing of your boards. PCBWay is one of the renowned service providers. Just go to their website, connect with them, and order an online quote for your required board before making your decision for the final circuit board. We have always worked with them, when it comes to PCB designing and they have always provided best job. That’s all for today. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article. If you’re unsure or have any questions, you can approach me in the section below, I’d love to help you the best way I can. Feel free to share your valuable feedback and suggestions around the content we share so we keep coming back with quality content customized to your exact needs and requirements. Thank you for reading the article.

Top 10 Professional PCB Design Software

Hi Friends! Hope you’re well today. I welcome you on board. Thank you for clicking this read. In this post today, I’ll detail the Top 10 Professional PCB Design Software. PCB designing is an integral part of executing some electrical projects. No matter if you’re a tech geek or starting the very first time, you may come across the PCB designing process at times. And believe me… if you do some drill beforehand, you don’t need to hire professional services from outside, and you can easily design and execute an electrical project yourself. In this post today, I’ll mention the comprehensive list of Professional PCB Design Software. Some of them are free to use and give you the ability to design your PCB on the go, while some are available with limited versions. You’ve got to buy them to get their full services.

Top 10 Professional PCB Design Software

I suggest you before jumping right into the designing process, you must make your design on the Veroboard or breadboard. This way you can easily find the glitches in your design and fix them before applying your permanent design on your PCB. Moving to PCB designing part is like making a final decision since you won’t get a second chance to fix your errors. In case you find errors in the final PCB design, you need to start all over again. Be on the safe side and start making your project on the Veroboard first then move to the PCB design process. Before I bore you to tears, let’s discuss the Top 10 Professional PCB Design Software.

1. Eagle

Eagle stands first in the list of professional PCB design software. It’s a powerful tool to design your PCB on the fly. Know that… EAGLE free download is a limited version available for engineering students that comes with 2 signal layers, 2 schematic sheets, and an 80cm2 (12.4in2) board area. Moreover, you get the chance to download this software for operating systems including Windows, MAC, and Linux. This software provides easy component placement, the ability to connect schematic diagrams, PCB routing, and detailed library content. Check this link to free download the Eagle software.

2. Proteus

Proteus is another robust and user-friendly PCB design software in the list. I personally use this software to design PCBs. Apart from designing your PCB in the software, it provides you the opportunity to simulate your electrical design. Before I start my design process in the software, first I run the electrical circuit simulation to see if the design is working perfectly. You can seamlessly design your PCB on this software and see your design in the 3D format. Read PCB Designing in Proteus ARES, that I’ve uploaded previously… to see how to design your PCB in Proteus Ares. You can download Proteus Software from here.

3. Altium

Altium is another powerful tool on board. It comes with a comprehensive list of tools for designing your PCB. You can download the free trial before wetting your hands in the paid version. ‘The most connected experience for PCB design and realization’ I love this tagline on their site. This platform gives you the ability to collaborate and interact with designers worldwide. Apart from creating your component list and BOM file, you can test your final design in the 3D simulator before sharing it online with anyone.

4. TinyCAD

Easy to use and easy to learn, TinyCAD is a remarkable software package. It helps you create your library projects and can whip out drawings at a remarkable pace. You can also make your presales conceptual designs. Additional features include drag connected component, snap to grid, 90degree (and more) wire guide, and rotate. You can seamlessly draw your electrical parts. This software is open-source and free to use for everyone.

5. Fritzing

With a user-friendly and attractive interface, Fritzing is a unique software for PCB design. There is one drawback. The hardware is a bit difficult to simulate. Also, we prefer trying out your hardware physically before designing it on this software. Designed by the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam, Fritzing gives you the ability to go from experimenting with the prototype to creating a permanent PCB design.

6. ZenitPCB

Robust and quick, ZenitPCB helps to create seamless Schematic designs of electrical circuits. It incorporates signal wires to layout the electrical connection between the circuits. A schematic diagram generated by ZenitCapture contains several pages, helping you better understand the layout of any electrical circuit. It is free to use and open-source software. You can use it for personal or professional purposes. It is limited to 800 pins and can help create PCB design in a super-fast way.

7. CircuitStudio

CircuitStudio stands seventh in the list of professional PCB design software. The remarkable PCB design tool, CircuitStudio contains advanced PCB layout to extend interactive routing. It features Intelligent Situs Autorouting technology and comes with Native 3D PCB editing support. Integrated with digital and analog simulation, this software incorporates a customizable and easy-to-use interface. Moreover, it is compatible with EAGLE and Altium software. It comes with a free-to-use 30-day trial. You need to pay for the product if you want all features lifetime.

8. OrCAD

OrCAD is a great pick to design advanced electronic projects. From creating an initial schematic diagram to generating the final design, this software keeps you covered. One remarkable feature is you can scale this software as your business grows. Easy to learn and easy to use, OrCAD comes with powerful interactive interfaces. It is free to use for a limited time, you need to quote the price if you aim to purchase this software with all features.

9. EasyEDA

EasyEDA is another excellent tool in the club. It is a web-based EDA and PCB layout tool for engineers. You can see complete circuit simulation as you design PCB schematic diagrams. Apart from creating awesome schematic diagrams, you can design a multi-layer PCB. It features a small database of components, the reason for creating better design with advanced components, you need to design components on your own. If you don’t want to involve yourself in the nitty-gritty of the PCB design process, you can outsource your project. Yes, that’s right. You can get the services of PCBWay that helps you design the complex layout of your PCB designs. You can get an online quote for your PCB designs. Plus, you can get a hold of real-time fabrication tracking. With over 99.6% satisfied rate, quick support of a skilled professional is available. Just submit your requirement and get the instant quote.

10. DesignSpark PCB

DesignSpark PCB is another remarkable addition to the list of professional PCB design software. It incorporates a user-friendly interface and helps you create schematic diagrams fast and quick. It is free to use and an open-source tool for designing PCB layouts. This was the comprehensive list of Top 10 Professional PCB Design Software. Some are free to use and some you need to purchase to get all features. Recall, it is better to create your design on Veroboard first before designing your PCB layout on the software. It will save you both time and money. Feel free to share your valuable suggestions and feedback in the comment below. And if you need any help regarding the list of mentioned software, I’d be happy to contribute. Thank you for reading the article.

7 Most Commonly used Types of PCB (Printed Circuit Board)

Hello everyone, how are you doing and I hope everybody is doing great.  i am going to discuss today the Types of PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Thank you, everyone, for coming back to our website and it means so much. we are grateful for your engagement and most importantly for choosing to educate yourself over anything else in the world.

PCB circuit boards are everywhere and we daily use dozens of circuit boards and interact with them. There is no doubt in saying that the PCB has made our lives easier and advanced. For example, the first thing in the morning your alarm goes off, and wherever you hit snooze, every time you send a signal through its circuit board.  And probably the list goes on as you turn the light on off etc.

Let's begin!

What is PCB

The abbreviation of the Printed circuit board is PCB, and it is the core of electronic products. But all of them are not equal. They are available in different types and made from different materials and specifications for a wide range of applications. Since the early 1900 PCBs are manufacturing and there is a major evolution of PCB happened in the last few years. PCB is a board that interconnects different electronic and electrical components. It is necessary for building a circuit. This article will bring a deeper understanding of the types of the circuit board and help you in finding the most suitable PCB for your needs. If you are working on some electronics project and want to design or fabricate PCB / PCBA, then we would suggest you to try PCBWay Fabrication House. They have an experienced team, eager to guide you throughout the process. & they always provide excellent results as per your requirements.

Different Types of Circuit board

• As I mention before that printed circuit board comes in a different size because of their characteristics and different requirements.
• The copper rails on circuit boards are used to connect different points of locations. They are easy to recognise.
• Their design makes them different from each circuit.
• Most of the PCBs are made of fibreglass, composite epoxy, and other composite materials.
• For simple electronics most of the time only one or single layer PCB use. But for the sophisticated or complex one such as motherboards and computer graphics card multi-layers PCBs used.

Now let's find about the types of circuit boards in details.

Single Sided PCBs

A single-sided circuit board is the simplest one and made out after a different process. Let's find out.

• It is the least complicated one.
• Contain one layer of substrate or base material
• One layer of the substrate is covered with the thin layer of metal or copper (it is excellent conductor)
• After the copper base painting usually a protective solder mask is applied.
• A silkscreen coat is applied to complete the look

Since the circuit board is single sided, it is easy to design and manufacture. All of the components are located on one side of the board. They can be purchased on low cost and especially for high volume orders. Their cost is low as compared to other circuit boards. They are used in a variety of applications like cameras, radio, printers, calculator etc.

Double Sided PCBs

Double Sided Printed circuit boards are more common as compare to single sided PCBs. Because of their high properties.

• Both sides have metal conductive layers and parts are connected to both sides
• Electric components are separated evenly on the entire board
• Holes are drilled through the board to connect to the other side too.
• For connecting both sides used through holes or with the surface-mount.

What is Through Hole

Through holes in double-sided PCBs means that small wires (known as leads) are fed through the holes with each end of the leads and then joined to the right component.

What is Surface Mount

In the surface mount wires are not used as connectors. Alternatively, small leads are soldered directly to the board. Simply put, that board itself is used as a wiring surface for the many components.

• Less space
• Allowing the board to complete more function by freeing up space
• Lighter weight and higher speed than through hole

Double-sided PCBs are used in complex applications as comper to single sided PCBs. It demands a medium level of complexity. The applications that used double sided or double layers PCBs are power supplies, HVAC systems, LED lighting and Vending machines etc.

Multi Layers PCBs

The Multi Layers PCBs are more complex than double sided PCBs. It consists of a series of three or more double layers.  These are using advanced technology in double sided boards.

• More than two layers of the substrate on the board
• The insulating material used on every layer
• The same latest technology of double sided is used to connect the different components
• The largest multilayer PCB was fifty layers thick.

All the applications that are using multi layers PCBs are data storage, file servers, satellite etc.

Rigid PCBs

Rigid Circuit boards are made of the solid substrate like printed circuit boards. Printed circuit board are not just classified based on layers and sides.

• It prevents the board from twisting.
• A most common example is a rigid motherboard
• The main difference is the number of layers
• Rigid PCBs consist of different rigidity

Rigid PCBs can be simple to multi-layers of PCBS. These PCBs can be used everywhere where it needs for PCB.  This type of circuit board is solid and inflexible. Fibreglass is one of the best options because it keeps the board from bending and stops any type of damage.

Flex PCBs

Flex is a short form of flexible. You can guess it with a name that it will make the flexible PCBs with the flexible plastic.

• Fit into different shapes
• Bend the board anytime and keep it safe
• Costly than other designs
• PCBs are light in weight and used in advanced technology

 

Rigid-Flex PCBs

As shows in name that it is the combination of rigid and flex. It is the last type a litle bit confusing but the main concept behind it was to use it with the strongest boards.

• Bothe flexibe and rigid
• Circuit board is rigid but its connect layers with the flex circuit board
• Difficult to make
• Consist of multi layers of flexible PCBs

It have many advantages of using over flex and rigid PCBs. These are found in cell phone applications, digital cameras and automobile etc.

A Tour to WellPCB – Fabrication House

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, we are going to have a look at another fabulous fabrication house named WellPCB. I have tried their services recently in an Arduino project, where I need to design a 3-Layer PCB and I was quite satisfied with their services. Before getting into the details, let me point out their strongest point, they have a trained customer service team, which guides you properly & solves all your queries. So, let's have a look at why you should prefer WellPCB for your next PCB order:

A quick review to WellPCB

• WellPCB PTY LTD is an Australian company ( daughter company of Uniwell Circuits Co. Ltd. ), focused on the fabrication of PCB, PCBa ( Turnkey Services ) & Flexible PCBs.
• WellPCB provides High Quality & Low Cost services in PCB industry.
• They provide a Fast Delivery method as fast as:
  • 24 hours for double-sided PCBs.
  • 48 hours for 4 to 8 Layered PCBs.
  • 120 hours for 10+ Layered PCBs.
• You can order PCB online from anywhere in the world, from their official website.
• WellPCB is capable of delivering over 10,000 varieties monthly.
• They are currently running a sale on their site:
  • $5 for 5 PCBs, 1-2 Layer.

• They follow international Certifications, which they have also published on their website:
  • ISO14001:2015, ISO9001:2015.
  • CertifiedIATF16949: 2016 Certified.
  • UL Certified.
  • Follows IPC & ROHS Standards.

WellPCB Price Quote

• WellPCB have provided an online PCB Quote Calculator on their website, from where you can instantly calculate your cost.
• They have provided this calculator for:
  • PCB.
  • Flexible PCB.
  • Rigid-Flexible PCB.
• So, you can provide all your requirements and then can get your final cost quite easily.

WellPCB Capabilities

WellPCB has a wide range of capabilities, please have a look at the detailed WellPCB capabilities and here I am going to mention few of them:

• I have already mentioned, they offer PCB, PCBa & Flexible PCB fabrication.
• They also offer Double Sided BGAs.
• They have the capability to drill Mini Hole Diameter to 0.15mm.
• They perform X-ray Inspection on their final product for quality assurance.
• They follow Turnkey Assembly.
• They can also do Components Sourcing for you.
• All their products are in compliance with RoHS.

Why WellPCB?

I have discussed almost everything about WellPCB. I have mentioned just the important points and you can read full details on their official website. Now, let's have a look at why you should select WellPCB for your next order:

• WellPCB is a daughter company of UniWell Circuits and thus has a long experience in electronics industry.
• As it's a big fabrication house, so they not only design simple PCBs but also provide solutions for PCB assembly & Flexible PCBs, so it's like a one stop solution for everything.
• Their fabricated product follows all international standards, as I have mentioned earlier.
• They have expert Quality Assurance team and perform multiple tests on finished product.
• They have educated Customer Support Team, who answer to all your questions.
• You can also check this sister company of WellPCB named OurPCB Pty Ltd.

So, that was all about WellPCB. If you have any questions, please ask in comments and if you get their services, then do mention your experience in comments for other. Thanks for reading, take care !!!