Your Excellent Hard Disk PCB Manufacturer in China

Your Number 1 Hard Disk PCB Supplier

If hard disk PCB is your concern, PCBMay will be your perfect choice. PCBMay manufactures a reliable and extraordinary hard disk PCB. We are sourcing PCBs and electronic components. If you need a high-quality hard disk PCB for your business, you are in the right place.

PCBMay hard disk PCB allows you to connect more components easily. They come in various sizes and are good designs. PCBMay manufactures a hard disk PCB from different materials, including the FR4, aluminum, CEM1, super-thin PCB, FPC, and other materials.

PCBMay hard disk PCB truly meets various industry qualifications such as UL, RoHS, SGS, and ISO9001 standards. PCBMay is a certified and qualified manufacturer who can give you a professional solution. We can supply the most fundamental and famous PCB.

Aside from PCBs, we also offer a wide range of electronic components and parts. If ever you’re in any electronic industry, you can choose PCBMay as your partner. As an expert manufacturing company, PCBMay will surpass your expectations and satisfaction.

A PCBMay hard disk PCB is available in a wide solder mask color. You can encounter blue, red, green, white, and black hard disk PCB from PCBMay. As your reliable partner, PCBMay can provide you with any OEM and ODM services.

PCBMay hard disk circuit board offers a long service life and strong ability. You can get an exact and perfect thickness of a hard disk PCB depending on your applications. In addition, the PCBMay hard disk PCB has good features and unique characteristics, making them the top-rated PCB.

PCBMay also offers an embedded PCB, DVR PCB remote PCB, refrigerator PCB, OLED PCB, carbon ink PCB, and sensor PCB. As a professional exporter, PCBMay will deliver your hard disk PCB orders quickly.

We provide excellent after-sale services to maintain a good relationship with our customers. Together with our professional and expert team, we will never hesitate to serve you in the best way.

Please message us for more inquiries!

Hard Disk PCB: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Are you suffering from placing components in the electric circuit board?

Hard disk PCB comes with a reliable solution for this problem. This PCB functions in an effective way that enables you to make your circuit design more flexible. Its numerous benefits improve the quality of electronic applications greatly.

But, do you familiar with its operations, materials, fabrication, etc? This FAQ guide will inform you of the pros and cons of this PCB. PCBMay manufactures highly functional and reliable hard disk PCB. We hope you will experience the premium feel of PCB projects with us.

Let’s start.

What Is A Hard Disk PCB?

It is an innovative circuit that controls the functions of hard disks in electronic devices. It is primarily used for information store purposes. It ensures the reliability of the PCB component’s arrangement. This PCB contains high-quality dielectric materials. That’s why its features like CTE, TG impedance stability, etc are very impressive.

Hard Disk PCB

This PCB is available in various solder mask colors like blue, green, black, red, etc. You can customize it to include lucrative features. The programmable property makes this PCB the most desirable circuit solution in recent times.

Its speed controlling power is superior to other PCBs. Besides, multilayer compatibility with thick copper surfaces turns this PCB into a trustworthy choice for high-frequency applications.

How To Ensure Temperature Control In A Hard Disk PCB?

Temperature-controlled hard disk PCB develops the computer’s performance to the optimum level. This PCB comprises worthwhile dielectric materials that maintain the dielectric properties effectively.

It properly manages the via placement on the PCB surface. These vias act to dissipate the additional heat from different PCB layers. It supports laser drilling and mechanical drilling. That’s why you can incorporate different types of vias here.

The use of thermal vias is a good technique to control the temperature in PCB. This PCB allows you to apply sufficient numbers of thermal vias. That’s why there is a low chance of producing excessive heat.

Temperature Controlled Hard Disk PCB

Again, its low dielectric constant enables this PCB to maintain a high glass transition temperature and low Z-axis coefficient of thermal expansion. Its low thermal expansion along with high heat conduction helps to operate at high temperatures without declining the performance.

What Are The Benefits Of A Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB has brought out an extraordinary change in signal transfer and information storage systems. It offers countless benefits which improve device integrity. The most noteworthy advantages of this PCB include-

• This PCB stores all kinds of content with great efficiency. Its functionality in preserving the audio-visual data is highly impressive. It also enables you to easily recover your lost pieces of information from the gadgets.
• Its high current conduction feature is effective for high-speed signal transmission.
• Its operating temperature is notably high. High thermal conduction along with temperature control feature makes this PCB compatible with extreme thermal conditions.
• You can use a hard disk PCB in a high-frequency multilayer stack-up. Effective dielectric constant with a wide range ensures the dielectric strength and impedance control in different PCB layers.
• It is supportive of lead-free technology. Its nature-friendly surface finish ensures the ecological effectiveness of this PCB.
• This is a cost-effective PCB. Its reliable performance with high durability minimizes the effect of initial high cost.
• The mechanical endurance of this PCB is commendable. It can also resist electrical and thermal pressures which promote its longevity to a great extent.
• Its easy replacement and dimensional ability ensure a vast range of applications.

Functional Hard Disk PCB

How Does A Hard Disk PCB Work?

The working principle of hard disk PCB is simple. It transmits binary signals for storing data. Hard disk operates in two modes. These are writing and read modes. Here, a magnetic field delivers an electric signal to the read head. This PCB then converts the signal into a computer-readable digital signal.

Effective Hard Disk PCB

The process in writing mode is opposite to this. Then, PCB transmits an electric signal to produce a magnetic field through writing heads. It produces a strong rotational force to revolve the disk. Fast rotation ensures a high magnetic field which is effective for reserving information.

What Are The Common Problems Of Hard Disk PCB?

The most common hard disk PCB problems are-

• The hard disk becomes unable to spin up.
• Damage of power connectors, TVS (Transient Voltage Suppression) diode, data connectors, etc.
• Overheating
• Entrance of moisture.
• Short connections of MOSFET, ceramic connectors.
• Failure of the driver chip.

Hard Disk PCB Problems

How Can You Repair A Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB fails due to the damage of components in most cases. Its repair is effective when replacement is not the only option. The most basic rules to repair this PCB are given here for your convenience.

• First, remove the damaged component or PCB portion by using a sharp knife or hot air gun and scissors.
• Then wash the PCB trace and eliminate the solder.
• Now, cover the damaged place with copper tape and start soldering the connection.
• Replace the PCB through-hole
• Restore the perfect component and solder it.
• At last, remove the copper tape.

Watch this video to learn more about this topic:

Hard Disk PCB Repair

What Is A Programmable Hard Disk PCB?

Programmable hard disk PCB is a unique circuit used in electronic projects. This PCB along with suitable hardware develops the performance of numerous applications. Such as telecommunications, networking, data accession, etc.

Programmable Hard Disk PCB

Easy design and effective customization make programmable hard disk PCB a reliable choice for PCB prototypes and high-volume PCB projects. The thickness of this PCB is around 1.6mm. It contains versatile solder mask colors.

Can You Replace A Hard Disk PCB?

Replacement is a good choice when a hard disk PCB goes beyond repair. You can replace it easily by following some important instructions.

• Find the serial number that is placed on the PCB.
• Collect a new hard disk PCB from a trusted supplier.
• Remove the faulty circuit board from the device by using the necessary tools.
• Replace the new PCB following the instructions provided by the supplier.
• Re-install the hard disc on your PC or laptop.

Hard Disk PCB Replacement

In case you face any difficulty, consult with a reliable and experienced PCB manufacturer. It will take care of the remaining job.

Can A Hard Disk PCB Be Customized?

A hard disk PCB can be customized in many ways. Faultless customization enables you to enjoy impressive features according to your designs. Such as programmable features, multilayer compatibility, removable hard disk, etc.

Customized Hard Disk PCB

You can also customize this PCB to make it usable for mobile devices. Inquire us. We deliver versatile types of hard disk PCB with proper customization.

How Does Dielectric Constant Influence Impedance Control In Hard Disk PCB?

Impedance control notably affects the effectiveness of hard disk PCB. Controlled impedance improves the current conduction and signals propagation rate which lift the device performance to a standard level. The dielectric constant is a vital factor that influences this property in electric circuits.

Impedance Controlled Hard Disk PCB

The dielectric constant is the ratio of the electric permittivity of a substance in a certain medium and a vacuum. It indicates the charge storage of the electric materials. Its lower value controls the capacitive inductance, conductance, and resistance in the circuit board.

These electric properties increase the impedance. That means low dielectric constant acts to keep the circuit resistance within a certain limit. Besides, it allows the designer to apply proper dielectric thickness which also plays an effective role in controlling impedance.

What Is The Best Copper Thickness For Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB delivers the best performance with heavy copper thicknesses. A thick copper surface improves the current conducting capacity and component placement in this PCB. Usually, 6 oz copper thickness is the most suitable for hard disk circuit boards.

Besides, thick copper allows you to perform the PCB soldering perfectly. Soldering has immense significance in achieving the optimum level of performance from the PCB components. You can mount these components effectively in a multilayer PCB stack-up.

Hard Disk PCB Heavy Copper Thickness

Again, if you use a heavy copper thickness, you can apply the surface finish that reduces the decay of the PCB surface. The proper surface finish also lessens the effect of oxidation in different PCB layers.

How To Test A Hard Disk PCB?

PCB assembly testing is a mandatory part of hard disk PCB manufacturing. It prevents the sudden malfunctioning and inconsistent performance of electronic gadgets. You can conduct automated and manual testing methods to check the effectiveness of your circuit.

We are going to focus on the most used hard disk PCB testing here.

In-circuit test (ICT)

ICT checks a specific circuitry of the circuit board. This test applies a bed of probes concerning the PCB design. The inspector of this test places the PCB on the probe’s bed.

There are some definite points on the PCB surface to establish connections between these two. Then, you can verify different properties of this PCB at a certain current supply.

This test is reliable for BGAs and large-scale PCB manufacturing. It delivers a trustworthy analysis on solder connection, power rating, voltage drops, etc.

Automated X-ray Inspection (AXI)

This test checks the visually critical portions of the PCB surface because of applying X-ray. You can detect the faults of internal solder connections, traces, barrels, etc. 3D AXI test provides the result of inspection fast.

Its operation is not so critical. But, AXI is an expensive testing process for low-volume PCB assembly.

Hard Disk PCB Testing

Automated optical test (AOI)

The AOI is an automated test where the AOI machine captures 2D and 3D photographs of PCB. This machine compares these photographs with an error-free design layout and finds the defects.

You can find faulty connections, unwanted solder joints, improper current rating, etc through this expensive test. A combination of the AOI and ICT tests render better performance in hard disk PCB testing.

Besides, flying probe tests and functional tests are also useful to check the functionality and circuit design of this PCB.

What Are The Components Of A Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB consists of different electronic and mechanical components. Its mechanical components are more visible than electronic components. Each of these parts has a specific contribution to the supreme performance of this PCB.

Microprocessors, memory, etc are the most common electronic components of hard disc PCBs. These elements improve the signal transferring system and take care of functions between the hard disk and the main IC.

Its prominent mechanical components are an aluminum-made hard disk and spindle motor. Information is stored on the magnetic layer on the hard disk and the motor controls the speed of this disk.

Which Software Is Best For Hard Disk PCB Design?

PCB design is a major segment of the hard disk PCB manufacturing process. Numerous software is applied to make the design perfect and convenient. The most used software for this PCB design is-

• KiCAD
• Altium designer
• Autodesk EAGLE
• Fusion 360

Hard Disk PCB Design

How Does Hard Disk PCB Controls The Speed?

A hard disk with proper rotational speed is the most desired feature for computers. Proper speed control improves the data storing capability of this circuit. Here, you can find a spindle motor connected to the hard disk on the PCB surface.

Hard Disk PCB Speed Control

This motor acts to control the speed. PCB transmits a signal to the spindle motor that delivers sufficient force to the disk for rotating at a controlled speed. Usually, its speed varies from 5000-15000 rpm.

How To Drill Different Vias In Hard Disk PCB?

Drilling PCB vias is a costly and lengthy process in hard disk PCB manufacturing. Since vias join different PCB layers for smooth heat and electricity conduction, you need to consider the minute details in the drilling process.

Because here a dimensional error can lead to great disaster in PCB manufacturing. Laser drilling and mechanical drilling are suitable for hard disk PCBs. Both of these methods consist of their benefits and limitations.

Laser technology is used in the case of laser drilling. Here, the laser equipment and PCB surface don’t have any connection. It is effective for blind and buried PCB vias due to its capability of drilling vias having a smaller diameter, like 0.002 inches.

Laser drilling requires extra care because of its difficulty in burning PCB materials like fiberglass, copper, epoxy resins, etc. If you handle it precisely, you will get the best result in hard disk PCB vias.

PCB Drilling Process

On the contrary, mechanical drilling is a manual process. It deals with a larger hole diameter. You can drill PCB holes having a minimum of  0.006 inches diameter by using this mechanical process.

This method is easier than laser drilling in terms of execution. Its durability varies concerning the PCB materials. If you have a budget constraint and want to drill quickly with minimal effort, you can consider mechanical drilling.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB has some disadvantages. Such as:

• The replacement process of this PCB requires extra care and cost.
• Sometimes, this PCB suffers from overheating due to wrong component placement and soldering.
• It does not handle excessive mechanical stress.

All of these limitations of this PCB can be minimized if you ensure perfect soldering, thickness, and components. We provide the most effective hard disk PCB manufacturing service. Contact us to enjoy the best performance from this RoHS-certified PCB.

Where Do You Use A Hard Disk PCB?

Hard disk PCB is mainly used in data storage devices. Like computers, laptops, etc. In recent times, mobile hard disk PCB is also very popular. It can be used in different data storage devices through well-designed customization.

Widely-Used Hard Disk PCB

You can apply this PCB in network-attached storage (NAS), RAID arrays, security devices, media libraries, etc.

What Are Multilayer Hard Disk PCB Design Rules?

Multilayer hard disk PCB has numerous applications in different electronic devices, like laptops, PC, etc. You need to apply some design rules to ensure an elite performance of this PB. We are here with some vital design techniques for you. Such as-

• First, you should determine the pile-up of this PCB. It indicates the number of the PCB layers applied in a multilayer design.
• Place the connected signal layers opposite to each other. You can first route them horizontally and then vertically.
• Use a sufficient number of PCB via food thermal management.
• Decrease the inner layer’s dimensions.
• The tie of thermal relief pads needs to be more than 8 mils.
• Use simple dielectric materials for the multilayer design.
• Fix a layer-dependent breakout strategy to optimize the layout design.
• Simulate the signal integrity after designing the PCB layout.
• The inner copper layer should be around 20 mils.
• Apply the via clearance for better thermal conduction. You can use 15-20 mils via clearance for this PCB.
• Inductors and diodes should be far away from the IC.

Multilayer Hard Disk PCB

These design techniques will help you to experience hassle-free electronic projects.

What Is The Best Surface Finish For A Hard Disk PCB Board Plate?

Surface finish is a useful technique to promote the performance of hard disk PCB. This PCB supports different metallic and organic surface finish methods. But, ENIG is the best among all of these surface finishes.

Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold delivers the following benefits to electronic applications.

• ENIG improves the resistance against corrosion in the PCB surface.
• It promotes the functionality of hard disks in the case of data storing and signal transmission.
• It develops solderability in the PCB surface.
• This surface finish maintains the consistent thermal conduction that is useful for heat dissipation in PCB.
• It makes the PCB components more oxidation-resistive.
• ENIG supports the eco-friendly nature of hard disk PCB.

PCB Surface Finish

Besides, you can consider HASL, OSP, ENEPIG, etc surface finishes for your PCB applications.

What Are The Types Of Hard Disk PCB Soldering?

Soldering is the most effective way to connect electrical sheets on the PCB surface. Proper soldering improves hard disk PCB performance to a large extent. There are multiple types of soldering processes that can be suitable for this PCB.

Through Hole Reflow Soldering

In this method, a solder paste with resin materials is applied to patch the components. This solder paste does not get deformed up to around 100⁰C. You need to apply heat through a reflux chamber to melt the solder paste.

The reflux chamber used in THR soldering prevents the heat to go beyond the weld’s specific melting temperature. It takes around 150⁰C temperature to melt the solder. Then, melted solder paste moves to the component’s lower portion and fills the peripheral component interconnects (PCI).

PCB Soldering Process

A secured connection is established when it becomes cool.

This type of soldering ensures mechanical endurance in hard disk PCB surfaces. But, its high cost is not supportive of low-volume PCB manufacturing.

SMT Soldering

Here, you can weld surface mount devices on both sides of the PCB. SMT soldering ensures a compact placement of PCB components with great reliability. The metal pads need to be covered in this case to avoid unwanted connections.

This soldering supports both SMT and THT, which develops its use in large-scale PCB productions.

Wave Soldering

Wave soldering is effective for plated through-hole components of hard disk PCB. here, the welding is applied at the bottom surface of PCI. The manufacturer supplies a welding wave through the air pump.

There is a chance of connecting unnecessary portions of the PCB.  So, you should cover the remaining parts through protective masks. Wave soldering is a low-cost method, but its low durability and additional maintenance reduce its application.

Watch this video to visualize the PCB soldering:

Conclusion

Hard disk PCB promotes your computer’s performance to the premium level. You can feel the optimum excellence of using high-speed devices through this extraordinary circuit board.

PCBMay is the most worthwhile supplier of this PCB in China. You can enjoy its original design manufacturing service at an affordable cost. We hope this FAQ guide will make you a resource person for hard disk PCB manufacturing.

For any additional queries, feel free to contact us. Stay tuned.