Almost everyone uses devices that include printed circuit boards every day. These devices are so widespread and offer so many advantages that they are present in almost all smart electronic devices. To create electronic devices, printed circuit boards have many applications, many of which use surface mount technology (SMT) to integrate components faster and more efficiently than previous technologies.
Basics of printed circuit boards
A printed circuit board or PCB is a board used to connect electronic components. These are essential parts of all smart electronics that people use every day at home and at work. PCBs are made using non-conductive materials and have pads, lines and other features etched from a sheet of copper that can connect the various components inside the device Connect the electrical face. When SMT technology is incorporated, things like resistors and capacitors are soldered onto the board instead of using wires.
Today, PCBs are the most common and popular way to create new products in electronics. The boards themselves can be single-sided, double-sided or multi-layered. They are also available in flexible or rigid configurations or can combine both as required.
PCB Assembly Options
There are two common methods for assembling PCBs and their components, including through-hole and PCB surface mounting
Through-Hole Mount – With this type of mounting, an assembler places component leads in holes that are drilled in the PCB. It is an old technology that is not used as much as it used to be. Since the leads go through the board, it has a strong connection, but working with this type of installation technology requires more time and effort.
SMT technology – with surface mounting, components are directly connected to the PCB via soldering. This method was first developed in the 1960s and became popular in the 80s. Today, the most common method is to add components. Surface mount components are smaller so more components can be placed on a board. This helps with cost and has led to a proliferation of smaller devices.
Common uses for printed circuit boards It may seem that only a few sectors and industries use printed circuit boards, but this is not true. These small boards can be found in everything from massive machines to small consumer devices.
Here we share some of the most common PCB applications:
LEDs
LED or Light Emitting Diodes are often used for lighting in commercial and residential locations. LEDs are also used in many industries such as computer technology, automotive, and medicine. The biggest advantages of LEDs are their long life, energy efficiency and compact size. PCBs are great for LEDs because they can help transfer heat away from the bulb. High temperature causes burning LEDs are fast, so their PCBs are usually made of aluminum to provide the best results. This allows for small and compact designs.
Industrial equipment
in the industrial sector uses printed circuit boards and SMT technology in different ways. Electronic components are used to supply power to equipment in distribution and production centers as well as other types of industrial environments. PCBs in industrial environments must be durable and strong enough to withstand harsh conditions, as they may be around extreme temperatures, rough handling, chemicals,
or vibrating machinery. Many are made with heat-resistant metals and are often thicker than conventional PCBs.
Aerospace components
Aerospace applications of PCBs require that they can withstand very harsh conditions. These printed circuit boards may be used in various types of equipment from airplanes to satellites, space shuttles and communication systems. The materials used for these PCBs must withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures and high amounts of vibration. Some are made for outdoor use and are even more durable. Lightweight PCBs made of aluminum can also be useful in some situations.
Security and Safety Equipment
Security systems often rely on the use of PCB and SMT technology. The PCBs used for these applications can vary based on the actual application, however, all must be reliable as these products must always function properly. Since some security devices work outdoors, they must be able to withstand this type of environment as well. PCBs are used in everything from modern electronic door locks to security cameras and even smoke detectors.
Medical Equipment
New technology is constantly being incorporated into the healthcare sector, and PCBs are adding more functionality to devices. Printed circuit boards are used in devices for diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, etc. These PCBs must be exceptionally reliable as they are used to improve patient health. They also often need to meet certain health standards and must perform best when they are very small. Some of the devices that use PCBs in healthcare include medical imaging systems, infusion pumps, monitors, and even internal devices.
Electronics for consumers
Computers, tablets, smartphones, and various other devices that people use every day require PCBs with SMT technology to function. As smart electronic devices have become a part of everyday life, PCBs exist to ensure their proper functioning. Most consumer electronic PCBs are relatively cheap to keep the product price down. However, signs also need to be reliable to keep consumers happy.
Sam Tadbir Industries offers a wide range of smart electronic boards that can use SMT technology. We work as a manufacturer and assembler. We provide innovative technology with rapid manufacturing and assembly for a wide range of industries.