What is the main function of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB)?
To physically support and electrically interconnect components in a circuit.
What material are PCBs made from?
Non-conducting material, typically with copper tracks for connections.
What additional purpose do PCBs serve besides interconnection?
They allow airflow for cooling and prevent short-circuits from disorganized component layout.
What are the three main types of PCBs?
Single-sided, Double-sided, and Multi-layer.
What are the two main types of component mounting on PCBs?
Through the Hole Technique (THT) and Surface Mounted Technology (SMT).
What is a Single-sided PCB?
A board with interconnecting tracks on only one side, used with THT.
What is a Double-sided PCB?
A board with interconnecting tracks on both sides, also supporting THT.
What is a Multi-layer PCB?
A PCB with multiple bonded layers, each with copper tracks for dense circuit designs.
How are layers added in a Multi-layer PCB?
Each track layer is printed, then another board layer is bonded on top.
What is THT (Through the Hole Technology)?
A method where component leads are inserted into drilled holes and soldered to tracks.
What machine automates THT component placement?
A Pick-and-Place machine.
What is SMT (Surface Mounted Technology)?
A method where components are mounted directly onto the surface of the PCB.
What are advantages of SMT over THT?
- No drilling required
- Smaller components
- Smaller PCBs
- Reduced weight
- Lower circuit losses
What is a conformal coating on a PCB?
A resin coating that conforms to PCB contours to protect against environmental damage.
Why is the coating called ‘conformal’?
Because it conforms to the surface and shape of the PCB when applied in liquid form.
Why are PCBs more prone to damage than LRUs?
Because of exposed components and terminals which are vulnerable to physical and electrostatic damage.
What type of damage are PCBs particularly vulnerable to?
Physical damage and electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Why is electrostatic discharge (ESD) a concern with PCBs?
Because exposed terminals can easily receive static electricity and cause damage.
What precaution is advised when handling PCBs?
Careful handling and ESD protection should be used to avoid damage.
