What is PCB?
PCB Stands for Printed Circuit Board. A PCB is a thin board made of fiberglass, composite epoxy, or other laminate material. Conductive pathways are printed onto board, connecting different components on the PCB, such as transistors, resistors, and integrated circuits.
Figure: Printed Circuit Board
History of PCB:
Before PCB assemblies, electronic and mechanical connections were established by wire-to-wire connections. The durability of these devices was problematic, as the wire insulation failed often, causing device failure.
Figure: Wire-to-Wire Connections - Before PCB
PCB's have been around since the 1920's, when rudimentary Printed Circuit Boards were created from layered Masonite, the development of modern PCB Assemblies really began in the 1950's.
- 1950's - Single Sided, New Materials
- 1960's - Double Sided, Longer Lasting, More Efficient
- 1970's - 1990's -- Smaller and Smaller --- Multi-Layer PCB Assemblies.
What PCB do?
PCB is a tool that provides mechanical and electronic connections by routing signals and power through conductive pathways that are printed onto circuit boards.
Primary Uses and Applications of PCB:
- Computers and computer printers
- Televisions
- Home Appliances (some Refrigerators, Dishwashers and Microwave Ovens)
- Digital Clocks
- Cell Phones
- Industrial applications
- Medical applications
- Aerospace applications
- Lighting applications