PCB In the field of PCBA chip processing, PCB is an indispensable basic component. In order to better understand the PCB design and production process, we need to be familiar with some commonly used PCB terms.
This article will focus on the core concepts of pads, vias, silk screen layers, trace lines, positioning holes, component faces, solder masks, and mounting holes.
A pad is an area of metal on a PCB that is used to solder the pins of a component. It is usually plated with a metal with good weldability, such as copper, to ensure good soldering results. The size and shape of the pads should be designed according to the size and type of component pins to ensure the reliability and stability of the solder.
Vias are conductive connection holes on a PCB that connect conductive paths to different layers. Through vias, current can flow between different layers of a multilayer PCB, enabling complex circuit designs. Vias are generally divided into two types: through vias and blind vias, where the vias penetrate the entire PCB, while the blind vias connect only part of the layer.
The silk screen layer is a text or pattern marking layer on the surface of the PCB, which is used to identify the model, pin number, test point and other information of the component. This information is essential for PCB assembly, testing, and repair. The screen printing layer is generally printed with ink that is not easy to fall off to ensure the clarity of long-term use.
A printed wire is a conductive path on a PCB that connects component pins and vias. They are laid out on the PCB at specific widths and spacings as required by the circuit design. The quality and accuracy of the printed line directly affect the performance and reliability of the PCB.
Locating holes are marked holes that are used for positioning and alignment during PCB assembly. In the automated production line, the positioning hole ensures the precise placement and assembly of the PCB by mating with the positioning pin on the equipment. The design and layout of the positioning holes are subject to industry standards and equipment requirements.
The component face is the side on the PCB where the component is mounted. On this side, the pads, printed lines, and other structures are laid out according to the circuit design. The design of the component surface needs to consider the layout of the components, heat dissipation, electromagnetic compatibility and other factors to ensure the overall performance of the PCB.
A solder mask is an insulating coating that covers the surface of a PCB to prevent solder shorts in areas that do not need to be soldered. At the same time, the solder mask can also protect the PCB from environmental factors and improve the durability of the PCB. The color and thickness of the solder mask can be selected and designed according to actual needs.
A mounting hole is a hole used to secure a PCB to a device or chassis. They can be round, square, or other shapes, depending on the installation needs and equipment design. The size and location of the mounting holes should be reasonably arranged according to the size of the PCB and the installation space of the equipment. During installation, the mounting holes are usually fixed to the device by screws or other fasteners.
These common terms are fundamental to understanding and designing PCBs. Familiarity with these terms not only helps us communicate better with our peers, but also improves our professionalism in the field of PCBA chip processing.