Since you’re interested in the fabrication process, you may be aware that prior to the availability of printed circuit board (PCB) design software, PCB design was accomplished with transparent Mylar sheets. These sheets would be used to create a photo mask for proposed designs.

Now that designers have access to computer-aided design systems and software, the PCB fabrication process is less time-consuming and potentially more exact. PCB designers are able to diagram and lay out the circuit pattern with the aid of this software. They are also able to adhere to specifications in order to create the requisite space needed for electrical conducting paths.

The thickness of PCB boards is determined by how many ounces of copper are being used. While some designers use 1 to 3 ounces of copper, others use 6 ounces. Circuit boards are often multilayered, and the most common ones are composed of 4,6,8 or 10 layers. It is interesting to note, however, that complex circuit boards can be manufactured with over 42 layers.

There are several steps to the PCB fabrication process, and these will, of course, depend on the type of boards being used as well as the various components. There are two methods, however, for connecting the circuits on a double-sided circuit board. The first type of circuit board assembly is through-hole technology, and the second, surface mount technology.

When soldering components onto the PCB, having the right temperature is critical. If it becomes too hot, then the components might become destroyed. This may also damage the PCB itself.

During PCB inspection, surface assembly issues may be discovered. When these occur, 70% are usually a result of problems with the printing technique. These are separate from other factors, such as the PCB design or the component or printed board quality.

Prototype assembly services, PCB fabrication and assembly services, and turnkey PCB assembly can often be handled by the same fabrication company. In addition to streamlining the overall fabrication process, this also provides additional layers of quality control.

You may be interested to know that the circuit board and electronic component manufacturing industry has been expanding on a worldwide basis. As of 2012, revenue exceeded $60 billion across the globe, and in 2014 alone, the United States’ portion of this industry had revenue of roughly $44 billion.