Most of the technology and electronic products we use today would not be possible without the invention of Printed Circuit Board (PCB). PCBs not only helped in reducing the size of the electronic product but it also helped in making the product cost effective. Printed Circuit Board is the most commonly used name but it may also be called as Printing Wiring Boards or Printed Wiring Cards.
A Printed Circuit Board is the most vital element in an electronic circuit. We will find at least one PCB in any electronic gadget ranging from cell phones to computers. PCBs are made up of special materials such as fiber and glass that do not conduct electricity. The circuits are designed on the boards with copper tracks rather than wires for the conduction of electricity between the electronic components. The electronic components are fixed in their respective positions by drilling holes on the board, placing the components and finally soldering them in appropriate positions so that the copper tracks and components together form a circuit.
Since a PCB holds all the components of a circuit, its design depends on the complexity of the product or the circuit. If it is a simple circuit, a single layer board could be enough. As the circuit complexity increases, it is recommended to go for a double-layer board, or using more than two layers, as in a multi-layered board. With a multi-layered board, the total PCB area can be kept small. An effective PCB design can help in reducing the chances of errors and also the possibilities of short circuit.
PCBs have a vital role in this modern day as technology is improving daily. These circuit boards are the foundation of electronic products as they are used in almost every electronic device. As they are the heart of any electronic device, they come in various configurations which allow them to serve various applications in different industries. Almost all types of industries have benefited with the development of PCBs. PCBs are used in Consumer Electronics, Industrial Applications, Medical Devices, Automotive Applications, etc.
As the applications of artificial intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things continue to grow in our lives, the demand for electronic devices will also keep on growing. This suggests that the future of PCB is as bright as the sun and hence PCB technology will continue to advance into the future as our needs and priorities change.
