A PC board, or printed circuit board (PCB), is a flat and rigid board that holds electronic components such as chips. Copper channels connect the different layers of the PCB. It can have anywhere from two to a dozen or more layers. Larger boards that plug into slots on the main board of a computer are known as system or motherboard, while the smaller ones are called cards.
The Etching Process
The circuit is not printed but etched, which involves laying a copper foil over a fibreglass or plastic base and covering it with a photoresist. The hardened parts that remain after etching are determined by shining light through a negative representation of the circuit onto the photoresist. The unhardened areas are washed away with an acid bath, and the layers are finally bonded together. Integrated circuits are made using the same etching process.
A Brief History
PCBs have been around since the 1940s when discrete components were connected using them. By the 1970s, integrated circuits became more common and were integrated on the boards. Today, PCBs are widely used in all electronic systems.
Why are Printed Circuit Boards Important?
PCBs are essential components in modern-day electronics, as they allow for efficient and compact designs of electronic circuits. A well-designed and manufactured PCB can help to reduce production cost, as well as improve reliability and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of using PCBs in electronic circuitry?
PCBs allow for efficient and compact designs of electronic circuits, reducing production costs while increasing the reliability and performance of electronic components.
What does the etching process involve?
The etching process involves laying a copper foil over a fibreglass or plastic base and covering it with a photoresist. The photoresist is hardened in the parts of the circuit that are to remain after etching, and then an acid is used to wash away the unhardened areas.
When were PCBs first used?
PCBs were first used in the 1940s when discrete components were connected using them. By the 1970s, integrated circuits became more common and were integrated onto the boards as well.
In Conclusion
PCBs are critical components in modern electronic systems. They allow for efficient and compact designs of electronic circuits, reducing production costs while improving reliability and performance. Understanding the etching process and the history of PCBs can give us a deeper appreciation for their importance in our daily lives.
