PCB Materials Science & Properties

PCB Materials Science

PCB Copper Pour Basics

What is Copper Pour in PCB Design? Copper pour refers to the technique of filling unused areas of a PCB's copper layers with solid copper planes. These planes are connected to power or ground nets, creating a continuous conductive path. Copper pour is typically used in the power and ground planes, as well as in signal layers for specific purposes. Purpose and Benefits of Copper Pour: Copper pour is primarily used to fill unused areas on PCB copper layers with solid (or hatched) copper connected to pow......

Aug 30, 2023

PCB Materials Science

How to Choose the Thickness of PCB

First, in the world of electronic products, the PCB is often referred to as the "heart", it connects everything together making the board thickness an important parameter for this crucial component. Whether the PCB thickness is appropriately selected directly affects the performance, stability, and reliability of the final electronic products. The process of selecting PCB thickness is influenced by various factors, such as product application scenarios, board material, and number of copper layers. The......

Dec 19, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Metal Core PCB Materials: Thermal Truth & Design Rules

Metal-core PCBs (MCPCBs) are speciality boards where a metal substrate replaces the standard FR-4. This metal core acts as a built-in heatsink, improving heat dissipation in high-power electronics. The basic stackup is simple: A copper conductor layer on top. A thin dielectric insulator in the middle. A thick metal base at the bottom. This structure provides excellent thermal spreading and a convenient ground plane. But it comes at the cost of a much heavier and more expensive board than typical FR-4.......

Dec 29, 2025

PCB Materials Science

FR4 PCB Deep Guide: Material Truth, Real Specs & When to Use (or Avoid) It

FR-4 isn't a secret code, it literally means Flame Retardant (grade 4). In PCB terms, FR-4 is a NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) grade designation for a glass-reinforced epoxy laminate. We can say it is a composite of woven fiberglass cloth bonded with an epoxy resin that contains flame-retardant additives. The “FR” stands for flame retardant, but note this doesn’t automatically mean UL94 V-0 certified. It just indicates the resin is formulated to self-extinguish if it catches fire......

Dec 27, 2025

PCB Materials Science

OPAMP 101: Basics of Operational Amplifiers Every Engineer Should Know

Analog mathematics? Yes, it is what we are going to learn in this series of OPAMP 101. An operational amplifier is the most common and most widely used type of component in an analog circuit. We can not imagine an integrated circuit without amplifiers. It is common, but students, on the other hand, often have a love-hate relationship: “How can something that looks so simple (just a triangle!) cause so much confusion?” An operational amplifier can perform a lot of mathematical operations; we will see t......

Oct 24, 2025

PCB Materials Science

What is the Standard Thickness of a PCB?

A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) is the foundation of electronic devices, which serves as a substrate to support electrical components. In PCB design, thickness is a crucial parameter as it influences several key processes. It influences not only the mechanical performance of the board but also the electrical properties, processability, and cost. The prevailing PCB thickness is 1.6 mm, but there will be many further options suitable for various purposes. Knowing the rule and when it’s acceptable to break ......

Oct 20, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Rogers vs PTFE vs Teflon: Choosing the Best PCB Laminate for High-Frequency Design

FR4, being the most popular one, is not always used in high-frequency PCBs because this PCB laminate can degrade the signal performance at high frequencies. Not because they consist of any wrong conduction material, but the reality lies in the substrate dielectric properties. The dielectric itself attenuates the signal at high frequency. So, after a lot of research in this area, we got some really good materials. The three alternatives for high-performance PCBs are Rogers, PTFE, and Teflon laminates. ......

Sep 24, 2025

PCB Materials Science

How to Select the Best Materials for Your Flexible PCB Designs

Flexible printed circuit boards (Flex PCBs) have revolutionized the electronics industry. Now we can pack the circuit in a small housing space with highly compact, lightweight, and flexible form factors. FPCs are everywhere from wearable devices to medical implants and aerospace systems. These circuits rely on special materials that offer the right balance of mechanical flexibility and electrical performance. When designing a Flex PCB, choosing the right combination of substrates, adhesives, and coati......

Aug 13, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Role of Prepreg in Multilayer PCB Manufacturing

A PCB stackup arrangement includes layers, planes, cores, base, substrate, laminate, and prepreg. From Core we can say FR4, Aluminum, Rogers and all. On the other hand prepregs are the dielectric material between the adjacent cores or the core and a layer. In multilayer PCBs, prepreg is a vital part that holds the PCB core and layers together. Once the difference between prepreg and core is clear, what exact material should you use for your application? How do the important electrical parameters chang......

Jun 24, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Beyond the Basics: The Role of PTFE PCBs

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) PCBs are integral to advanced electronic applications. Among various PCB materials, Teflon, the brand name for Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Teflon PCBs, known for their high frequency and heat resistance properties. All of this is achievable due to its exceptional dielectric properties. RF PCB designs often make use of low-loss PTFE-based materials thanks to their very low dielectric losses and huge range of possible Dk values. Low Dielectric Constant: Enables high-sp......

Oct 20, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Understanding the Materials Used in PCBs: Selection, Types, and Importance

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are an essential component of modern electronics. These boards connect and support electronic components, providing a stable platform for the transfer of electrical signals and power. A typical PCB consists of multiple layers of materials that are laminated together to form a single unit. PCBs are an integral part of the electronics manufacturing process. They are used in everything from consumer electronics to automotive and aerospace applications, and are critical to th......

Aug 01, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Understanding PCB Copper Thickness: Standards and Conversions

When talking about copper thickness, there are some limited options available with manufacturing houses. When designers have to increase the current carrying capacity of a trace without making it wider, then copper weight or thickness is increased in the lateral dimension. There are only a few options, and most of the manufacturers have a standard thickness. Copper selection is all about power delivery, signal propagation, and thermal management. Copper width and length are always a concerning factor ......

Oct 25, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Understanding PCB Laminates Materials, Types, and Why They Matter

A PCB is a flat board made of a non-conductive substrate material with conductive pathways and components attached to it. One of the critical components of a PCB is the PCB laminate. A typical laminate PCB consists of a core material, such as fiberglass or composite epoxy. So what it actually do is ● Provides structural support ● Improves Signal Integrity ● Bond the layers to the core material The fiberglass layers are stacked on top of each other and pressed together with heat and pressure to create ......

Jul 27, 2025

PCB Materials Science

How Aluminum PCBs Improve Thermal Conductivity

Thermal management has become one of the most important issues in electronic design as contemporary electronics get smaller and more potent. PCBs have a variety of cores and materials. In the past, we have covered a wide range of materials. Today, however, metal core PCBs are the primary emphasis. Poor heat dissipation in basic PCBs causes electrical devices to perform worse, last less time, or possibly fail catastrophically. Compared to conventional FR-4 boards, aluminum PCBs have better heat conduct......

Jul 25, 2025

PCB Materials Science

A Complete Guide to Copper Clad Laminate (CCL) in PCB Manufacturing

In the world of printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing, Copper Clad Laminate (CCL) forms the foundation upon which all designs are built. Whether you're assembling a simple single-layer board or a complex high-speed multilayer system, understanding CCL is essential. This article offers a comprehensive guide to what CCL is, the types available, their key properties, and how they influence the performance and reliability of PCBs. 1. What is Copper Clad Laminate (CCL)? Copper Clad Laminate (CCL) is a ......

Jun 26, 2025

PCB Materials Science

The Impact of Inner Layer Residual Copper Rate on Board Thickness

When we were kids, we heard the children's story "The Crow Drinks Water," where a crow raises the water level by dropping stones into a fixed amount of water in a bottle. The same principle applies to multilayer PCB lamination, where during high temperature and high pressure, PP sheets flow in a liquid state to fill the gaps between the layers. This process is called "resin filling." As seen in the diagram, when the copper coverage in the inner layer is minimal, PP sheets of the same thickness need to......

Jan 22, 2025

PCB Materials Science

PCB Board Thickness: Importance and Considerations

An integral component of a printed circuit boards (PCB) design and utility is its thickness. It influences its mechanical stability, electrical performance, and simplicity of construction as well as mechanical strength. Knowing what thickness is optimum for each application is crucial since electronics must get ever smaller. This article discusses the importance of PCB board thickness, the elements affecting it, the accepted thicknesses, and how one should pick the best one. What is PCB Board Thicknes......

Jan 16, 2025

PCB Materials Science

Understanding the Importance of Coverlay in PCB Boards

Introduction: In the swiftly evolving realm of electronics, the significance of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) is immense. These crucial elements are the backbone of nearly all electronic devices. An essential feature that greatly boosts the performance and durability of PCBs is the coverlay. This article delves into the role, advantages, and innovations of coverlay in PCB boards. What is Coverlay? Coverlay, also called cover film, is a protective layer used mainly in flexible PCBs. Unlike the conventi......

Dec 02, 2024

PCB Materials Science

Aluminum PCBs: Transforming Thermal Management in Electronics

Introduction In the fast-paced world of electronics, managing heat effectively is crucial for maintaining the reliability and performance of devices. One major advancement in this field is the adoption of aluminum PCBs. Aluminum PCBs, celebrated for their exceptional thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capabilities, have become a vital solution for high-power applications. This article explores the benefits, applications, and design considerations associated with aluminum PCBs, highlighting how ......

PCB Materials Science

How Inner Layer Residual Copper Rate Affects PCB Thickness and Quality

In printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing, precision is crucial for maintaining quality and performance. One key factor that significantly influences PCB quality is the residual copper rate in the inner layers. This concept becomes particularly critical in multilayer PCBs, where the balance of copper distribution impacts the final board thickness. This article explores how the inner layer residual copper rate affects board thickness and the importance of optimizing this rate to ensure robust and re......

Sep 23, 2024

PCB Materials Science

Your Ultimate Guide to PCB Rulers

In the world of PCB design and manufacturing, having the right tools is crucial for achieving accuracy and precision. One such tool that has gained popularity among professionals and hobbyists is the PCB ruler. This specialized measuring tool is designed to provide accurate measurements, reference information, and component footprints, assisting designers, engineers, technicians, and assemblers in various stages of PCB development. In this guide, we'll explore what a PCB ruler is, the features and mea......

Mar 08, 2024

PCB Materials Science

How to Select Tg of PCB ？

What is the Tg of PCB? In PCB manufacturing, abbreviation "Tg" stands for "Glass transition temperature", which is the temperature at which a material transits from a solid state to a rubbery elastic state during heating. As we all know, the PCB must be flame-resistant. It cannot burn at a specific temperature; instead, it can only become soft. When the temperature exceeds Tg, the PCB substrate material FR-4 undergoes a transition from a brittle and hard state to a soft state. This transition can lead......

Jan 12, 2024

PCB Materials Science

PCB Basics 1: Introduction to Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Welcome to the first installment of our "PCB Basics" series, where we begin our journey to explore the fundamental aspects of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) and their crucial role in the world of modern electronics. In this article, we will dig into the significance of PCBs, unveil the intricate components and structure that constitute a PCB, and introduce the design process and its profound impact on PCB manufacturing. Get ready to delve into the heart of PCB technology and discover how it powers the ......

Oct 20, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Copper Weight and Trace Width: Finding the Optimal Balance

When it comes to printed circuit board (PCB) design, finding the optimal balance between copper weight and trace width is crucial. Copper weight and trace width directly impact the performance, reliability, and cost of your PCB. Whether you're an electronics enthusiast, hobbyist, engineer, student, or professional in the field, understanding the balance between them is essential for successful PCB design. Why Copper Weight Matters Copper weight refers to the thickness of the copper layer on a PCB. It ......

Nov 01, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Unlocking the Power of Aluminum PCB: Enhancing Heat Dissipation in Electronics

In the fast-paced world of electronics, effective heat dissipation is crucial for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of electronic devices. An aluminum PCB has emerged as a game-changer, offering superior heat dissipation and thermal transfer capabilities compared to standard FR-4 construction. At JLCPCB, we are thrilled to introduce our new product - Aluminum PCB Board, now available at an incredible price of only $2! In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the benefits of an ......

Sep 27, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Aluminum PCBs vs. Traditional FR4: A Comparative Analysis of Thermal Management

In the rapidly evolving world of electronics, thermal management plays a crucial role in ensuring the performance and reliability of printed circuit boards (PCBs). As electronic devices become more compact and powerful, effective heat dissipation becomes essential. In this article, we will conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of two popular PCB substrate materials: Aluminum and traditional FR4. We will explore their thermal management capabilities, advantages, considerations, and provide valua......

Sep 26, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Navigating Standard PCB Thickness: A Step-by-Step Guide to Selecting the Ideal Thickness for Your PCB Prototype

The thickness of a printed circuit board (PCB) may seem like a small detail, but it plays a crucial role in the performance and reliability of your electronic devices. Standard PCB thickness has become an industry norm, offering a range of benefits that impact mechanical stability, electrical performance, thermal management, and component compatibility.In this article, we will be taking a deep look at why the varying thickness of your PCB matters and provide you with a guide to choosing the right thic......

Aug 10, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Heavy Copper PCBs: An Overview of Their Benefits and Applications

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the backbone of modern electronics, providing a platform for the connection of electronic components and the transmission of electrical signals. With the increasing demand for high-performance and reliable electronic devices, manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to improve the overall performance and durability of PCBs. Heavy Copper PCBs are a special type of PCBs that offers several advantages over the standard PCBs. They are designed to have thicker copper laye......

Jul 28, 2023

PCB Materials Science

Is FR4 the Best Board Material for Your Design

In the world of electronics and printed circuit board manufacturing, choosing the right substrate material for your design can mean the difference between success and failure. FR4 substrate, with its excellent mechanical strength, electrical insulation, and resistance to heat and chemicals, is widely used in the industry. In this article, we will explore the properties and advantages of FR4 substrate, its use in printed circuit boards, as well as some limitations and tips for selecting the right FR4 m......

Jul 24, 2023