JLCPCB Blog

Components & Sourcing

Everything You Need to Know about BGA Technology in PCB Assembly

Ball Grid Array (BGA) is a leadless surface-mount package widely used in high-density and high-speed PCB designs. It features an array of solder balls on the underside, providing high I/O density, better signal integrity, and thermal performance. This guide covers what is BGA, different types of BGA packages, advantages and disadvantages, assembly requirements, inspection methods, and common defect solutions, helping engineers make informed decisions in PCB manufacturing. What is Ball Grid Array (BGA)......

Feb 27, 2024

Components & Sourcing

Capacitor vs Battery: Key Differences, Energy Storage, and When to Use Each

Key Takeaways Capacitors deliver high power in microseconds but store very little energy Batteries hold large amounts of energy but respond more slowly to load transients Capacitors are ideal for filtering, decoupling, and transient suppression Batteries are best for sustained, long-duration power Are capacitors better than batteries? Neither is universally superior - they are optimized for different roles. Capacitors excel in power delivery and speed; batteries excel in energy storage and runtime. Th......

Apr 17, 2026

Surface Finishes & Coating

Copper Coin PCB : A Solution for Heat Dissipation

In the fast-evolving electronics industry, devices are becoming smaller, faster, and more powerful, while also coming in a compact size. Power is no longer a problem, but packing the device into a smaller form factor presents a serious challenge. Whether we are working on a power converter, LED lighting module, automotive ECU, or 5G communication device, the excessive heat reduces performance. It shortens the component lifespan. This is where Copper Coin-Embedded PCBs become a smart, modern solution f......

Apr 17, 2026

Components & Sourcing

ESP32 vs Arduino: Differences, Performance, and How to Choose the Right Board

When deciding between ESP32 vs Arduino for your next electronics project, the right choice depends heavily on your specific engineering requirements. To put it directly: the ESP32 is the best choice for IoT, wireless connectivity, and high-performance computing, while Arduino remains the gold standard for beginners, simple hardware control, and deterministic timing. Which is better, ESP32 or Arduino? The answer lies in your project’s demands for processing power, power consumption, and connectivity. L......

Apr 17, 2026

Design for Manufacturing

How to Set PCB Via Tenting in PCB Design Software

Introduction Via tenting refers to covering the via pads and holes with solder mask ink (also known as solder resist), preventing solder from adhering to the pads. This is a process widely used in most circuit boards. It's a critical part of PCB design, protecting the vias and enhancing the board’s durability and performance. In this guide, we'll show you how to configure PCB via tenting in commonly used software such as Altium Designer (AD) and Protel 99 to ensure your Gerber files meet the required ......

Sep 29, 2024

Assembly Techniques

IC Package Types Explained: A Practical Guide for PCB Designers

Walk into any electronics lab, and you'll hear the same debate: "Which IC package should I use here?" It sounds like a simple question until you realise the answer determines your PCB footprint, thermal headroom, assembly process, rework feasibility, and field reliability - all at once. This guide breaks down every major IC package type used in modern PCB design, helping you understand the differences between common IC package types in plain engineering language so you can make the right call from the......

Apr 15, 2026