Dependable Semiconductor PCB Manufacturer in China

A green semiconductor PCB

To understand what a semiconductor PCB is, you must first take a brief look at semiconductors.

These are substances that act both as an insulator and a conductor.

If the conditions are right, a semiconductor would be capable of conducting electricity.

This is a preferable quality in instances where controlled electrical power is required.

Semiconductors are a major component used in the electronics industry.

A wide number of semiconductor-based technologies are available in the market including several discrete components such as LEDs, ICs, bipolar transistors, and Semiconductor PCBs.

Therefore, the term “semiconductor PCBs” stands for Printed Circuit Boards that are based on a semiconductor.

These are the base components on which semiconductor devices are connected. It has several applications such as used in digital displays, mobile phones, computers, and smartwatches.

The biggest benefit of a semiconductor PCB is its smaller size (ideal for use in small devices) and a well-regulated flow of electricity.

An integrated circuit on a semiconductor PCB

An integrated circuit is a miniature electric circuit that is welded onto a semiconductor PCB. That is because integrated circuit chips are incredibly small.

Hence, connecting them directly to a semiconductor PCB is very difficult.

To learn more about what an IC (integrated circuit) is, we suggest you check this video:

Today, Semiconductor PCBs are present in all electronic devices. Apart from providing mechanical support, they are used to also allow connectivity of different parts.

Where on the other hand, an integrated circuit is a small chip that relies on semiconductor PCBs as carriers.

A semiconductor material

Without a semiconductor PCB, an electronic device would simply fail.

That is because different components of the device will have no connectivity with each other.

As a result of this, no current would flow through the device.

Semiconductor PCBs allow electricity to directly flow through in a controlled manner.

This results in proper working of the electronic components.

At the same time, they are very compatible due to their smaller size.

Hence, semiconductor PCB units are used in all types of small electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, portable electric devices, smartwatches, and a lot more.

Another reason why semiconductor PCBs are more popular as compared with other alternatives such as vacuum tubes is their affordability.

Since they are quite rigid, they are also shock-proof. This means that devices with semiconductor PCBs tend to have a longer lifespan.

These points suggest that semiconductor PCBs are incredibly important and without them, portable electronic devices would not become a reality.

Use of semiconductor PCBs

Semiconductor PCBs are used in several devices that include audio and video equipment, communication equipment, digital displays, computers, global positions systems, navigation equipment, radar and radio systems, and smartwatches.

However, that is not all. They are found in almost all portable electric devices such as smartwatches, laptops, mobile phones, and others.

Furthermore, they are also common in larger devices. You could say that these are the building blocks of most modern electrical devices.

An untreated semiconductor material

Several different materials are used in semiconductor PCBs. First, you have silicon, which is a semiconductor that is cheap to manufacture and readily available.

It might be among the most readily available material on Earth.

Apart from Silicon, Germanium is also a common material that is used in the manufacturing of semiconductor PCBs.

However, it is rare for a semiconductor PCB to be solely based on a single type of material. Often, a combination of materials is used in the manufacturing of semiconductor PCBs.

For instance, sometimes, alloys of Silicon and Germanium are also very common semiconductor PCB materials.

Similarly, sometimes the alloys of Silicon and Germanium may be combined with Gallium Arsenide to achieve some desirable properties.

Apart from that, Copper is also etched onto the surface of semiconductor PCBs to achieve high electrical conductivity.

With that, several materials for the substrates are also used that include epoxy resins, ABF resins, or BT resins. This varies depending on the required properties.

However, as compared with the other materials, the semiconductors such as Silicon and Germanium take up most of the composition.

Are you wondering what is a semiconductor in scientific terms? Check out this video to find out:

A green semiconductor PCB with multiple components

Typically, semiconductor PCBs come covered in a green layer that is made of hardened resin with certain pigments added for the color.

However, sometimes they can also be made in other colors. However, it has become somewhat of a standard to produce them in green color.

That is also because of the solder mask, which gives a bold appearance to the borders. As a result of this, the copper that is printed on the core remains protected and soldering errors can be avoided.

Semiconductor PCB

A semiconductor PCB connects the electronic parts of a device and provides mechanical support.

To enhance the connectivity between the electronic components, a semiconductor PCB makes use of conductive pathways, tracks, and traces of signals.

A semiconductor PCB is etched with copper sheet lamination on a substrate (non-conductive) that allows the flow of electricity.

You might want to check this video about the basic concepts in PCB design, to understand further how semiconductor PCBs work:

Semiconductor PCB thickness

Design factors that may impact the thickness of semiconductor PCBs include board materials, signal types, b types, operating environment, the board materials, and the number of layers in the semiconductor PCB.

Along with that, some PCB manufacturing factors may also have a considerable impact on the thickness of semiconductor PCBs.

There includes the thickness of the copper layer, the number of layers, the drill hole equipment that is used, and the depanelization method.

The thickness of semiconductor PCBs

Yes, the semiconductor PCB thickness can have a significant impact on performance. The thickness that you will choose depends on the application.

A semiconductor PCB closeup

Before choosing any semiconductor PCB thickness, you must take consider several factors. First, you must check the equipment capabilities of the manufacturer.

Simply put, you must check whether the manufacturer can manufacture semiconductor PCBs to your desired thickness.

If you are dealing with applications that require and advanced design, you will be better off with manufacturers who can fulfill your requirements with custom designs.

However, you must also remember that advanced techniques are more expensive. So, if you are looking for a thicket semiconductor PCB, then be ready to pay higher.

The turnaround time is another factor that you must consider. Normally, semiconductor PCBs that have standard thickness are easy to adjust.

It takes little time in that aspect. However, custom manufacturing semiconductor PCBs with custom thicknesses takes more time.

This can significantly increase the turnaround time due to the delays in manufacturing. So, do not forget to discuss this aspect with your manufacturer.

The last factor is the additional cost. Sometimes, customized thicknesses are not cost-effective in the long run. So, this is something that you need to consider beforehand.

Simply put, you must assess the cost vs returns of getting a semiconductor PCB with a greater thickness.

Sometimes, it can be a trade that is worthwhile in the long run even when the initial costs of manufacturing are higher as compared with standard thicknesses.

Semiconductor PCB repair

There are several reasons why semiconductor PCBs may fail. These can majorly be broken down into three causes that are manufacturing defects, environmental factors, and non-specific design.

Semiconductor PCB failure

The operating environment has a direct impact on the working and performance of the semiconductor PCB.

Hence, it is important to design the semiconductor PCBs for optimum operation in high heat, dust, and high moisture environments.

For instance, it is not uncommon for semiconductor PCBs to generate heat when they are operating. In that sense, almost all semiconductor PCBs work under high heat conditions.

However, when the board is not designed to withstand high temperatures, it would lead to cracks in the solder joints.

Along with that, the substrate materials may also break down, resulting in physical defects in the board.

Similarly, you must keep all electronic components dust-free. And the same applies to semiconductor PCBs.

Make sure that the internal components are free from dust and that the enclosures can prevent the dust from getting in.

You probably know that water can damage electronic components. Similarly, semiconductor PCBs are also prone to damage if exposed to water.

High levels of moisture in the air can also significantly damage the semiconductor PC leading to a possible failure.

That is because moisture in the air often condenses into liquid on the surface of the board.

Defects in semiconductor PCBs

Semiconductor PCBs can develop several defects on the surface level, which would eventually lead to failure.

For instance, a low-end solder connection is one of the most common physical defects associated with cheaper semiconductor PCBs.

However, if you buy high-quality semiconductor PCBs from a well-reputed semiconductor PCBs manufacturer, you will not have to deal with such defects.

Apart from soldering defects, material degradation is also a common occurrence. Typically, boards that have a low CTE can end up degrading and weak.

This is often due to an excessive amount of heat in the working environment. The solution to this problem simply lies in the design.

So, to avoid issues like these, you must always buy high-quality semiconductor PCBs.

With that, contamination is another major issue that can lead to defects in the semiconductor PCB.

Sometimes, a lack of finishing on the surface or the degradation of protective coating can lead to the contamination of the semiconductor PCB layers.

This causes oxidation, resulting in a complete failure of the PCB. This is a common problem in low-quality semiconductor PCBs. Again, the solution to this problem simply lies in the original design.

Manufacturers must apply the surface finishing and conformal coating effectively to prevent contamination of the surface during PCB operation.

Multiple semiconductor PCBs

The shelf-life of your semiconductor PCBs can be up to 10 years.

However, it depends on several factors that include the quality of the semiconductor PCB, the working conditions, storage conditions, and defects.

High-quality semiconductor PCBs can serve you well for a long time, provided that you fulfill all the prerequisites.

Semiconductor PCB repairs in progress

Yes, fortunately, there are several ways in which you can repair faulty semiconductor PCBs.

However, this is not usually the work of a layman. You would be better off consulting an expert regarding their repair and remanufacturing.

Typically, your semiconductor PCB manufacturers will be able to help you out with that. Mostly, for damages that are visible on the board, it is necessary to repair the baseboard.

Sometimes, manufacturers do this by melting down materials and modifying the board. At times, a complete disassembly may also be required.

In case only a certain component needs repair, simply PCB soldering might do the trick.

So, the extent of the repairs will vary from case to case. It will directly depend on the condition of your semiconductor PCB.

We do not suggest you try to repair the PCB back on your own.

That is because manufacturers follow some strict ICO and IPC standards in manufacturing. And a layman is typically unaware of all the necessary codes.

A single semiconductor PCB

Typically, semiconductor PCB repairs require the very same PCB materials that are used in the original design.

For instance, to repair any trace pathways, silver or copper will be used depending on the semiconductor PCB’s specifications.

Similarly, many semiconductor PCB substrates are made of epoxy resin or fiberglass. The same two materials might be used in repairing the substrate.

Sometimes, the substrate is also composed of a phenolic resin. It is a cardboard-like material that is lighter and thinner as compared with fiberglass.

Some manufacturers and repair centers make use of Gold to improve the soldered segments on the semiconductor PCB.

Checking faults in semiconductor PCB

If your semiconductor PCB suddenly stops working, there may be more than one issue with it.

For instance, if there is some problem with the circuit board, you can easily determine what is wrong with the board by taking a close look.

For instance, telltale signs often develop on the semiconductor PCB if it is damaged due to an electrical surge.

In that case, there would be a burnt spot on the board. You may as well want to pay close attention to any broken traces, cracked ICs, and capacitors that may have been blown.

If everything on the outside looks fine, then you may want to provide power to the circuit and measure voltages using a multimeter.

The output and the input both must show the values that are expected.

Then, check if the input voltage is 0 volts. This means that there is an issue with the fuse.

After you replace the fuse and it breaks immediately when you power up, chances are that another component is shorted.

Eventually, if you are unable to pinpoint the exact issue with the semiconductor PCB, your best bet would be to take it to the manufacturer.

Copper in semiconductor PCB design

The use of copper in semiconductor PCBs aids in the conduction of electricity. That is because copper on PCBs is extremely conductive.

Hence, it can transmit electricity with great ease and high efficiency. In other words, it does not waste away much energy.

Another reason why copper is preferred for use in semiconductor PCBs is that it is readily available and cheap to produce.

With that, a single ounce of copper can be spread out to 1.4 thousandth part of an inch in thickness. This way, a small amount of copper can easily cover up to a square foot of substrate.

Chemical leakage is one of the most common issues that occur with semiconductor PCBs. This often happens during the manufacturing phase.

Sometimes, the manufacturers do not clean the semiconductor PCBs thoroughly. And since chemicals are used in their manufacturing, some tiny amounts can be left on the surface of the boards.

Over time, these residues can leak into the board and spread due to humidity, resulting in either corrosion of the metal parts or short-circuit.

A burnt semiconductor PCB

Sometimes, semiconductor PCBs can burn due to bad protection. Furthermore, an improperly sized fuse can also result in burning.

Other reasons include high voltage or other technical errors in the manufacturing of the semiconductor PCB.

A flex-circuit semiconductor PCB

Generally, 6 basic types of PCB boards made of semiconductors are available in the market.

These include single-sided semiconductor PCBs, double semiconductor PCBs, multiple layer semiconductor PCBs, rigid PCBs, flex-circuits PCBs, and rigid-flex PCBs.

In single-sided semiconductor PCBs, the components are only present on either side through hole-assembly mounting technology. Hence, these are simple options.

As the name implies, double semiconductor PCBs have components mounted on both sides.

At the same time, multiple layer semiconductor PCBs contain several layers. At least, these contain 3 layers. However, multi-layer semiconductor PCBs come in various forms.

For instance, you can find 6 layers, 8 layers, 4 layers, and many other combinations. Typically, they are used in complex applications and devices.

Rigid semiconductor PCBs are difficult to fold. Hence, they are very rigid and have high mechanical strengths.

Hence, they are preferred in applications where high stress may be involved. They also have a much more compact design as compared with other options.

Flex-circuits semiconductor PCBs are made with flexible substrates. Typically, Polyimide is the most common material used in the substrate.

This gives the board a high level of flexibility which is not seen in rigid semiconductor PCBs.

In the end, the rigid-flex semiconductor PCBs make use of both flexible and rigid board tech.

As a result of this, these boards have features found in both flex and rigid semiconductor PCBs. Furthermore, they often contain more than a single layer.

Though, they are lightweight and compact, which makes them suitable for use in many devices.

For more information on the types of semiconductor PCBs, check out this video: