6 Types Of PCB: Check Out Their Advantages And Disadvantages

The technology has evolved so much that the requirement of PCBs has become a necessity to perform all the complex functions in a system that has one or more routed devices to complete a command. There are different types of PCBs available, like single-sided, double-sided, and multilayered PCB. In this blog, we will discuss the types in-depth and learn more about their advantages and disadvantages.

6 Different Types of PCB

PCBs are an essential component of electronic devices and they are of various types, each type has its specific characteristics, design, and functions. There are different purposes that they serve and it varies according to their design and components. To become an expert in this field you can take a PCB course to learn more and grab the job opportunities. Let’s discuss the types of printed circuit boards.

Also Read: What is PCB

1. Single-Sided PCBs

It is the most common and simplest type of PCB with only one conductive copper layer right above the substrate. The other side of the circuit is comprised of parts that are visible on the circuit, like the conductive part, but they cannot overlap because that takes up a lot of space.

These circuits are suitably designed for low-density design requirements and are used for basic and low-cost electronic devices like LED boards, calculators, FM radios, and timing circuits. Because of the low production cost single-sided PCBs are a choice of many people. As the production cost is low for single-sided PCBs people prefer it to the others. The following are a few advantages and disadvantages of a single-sided PCB:

Advantages	Disadvantages
It is affordable and cost-effective.	It is too simple for complex projects.
Simple manufacturing and easier to maintain.	It has a lower operating system as it has a simpler design.
It works best with low-density electronic devices.	It is larger in size.
It has a simpler design in comparison to other types of PCB.	They have a higher weight due to their larger size.
It can be repaired easily if something goes wrong.	It has only one conducting layer which limits its uses.

2. Double-Sided PCBs

In a double-sided PCB, a conducting material is added to the top and bottom, of both sides of the board. It uses two conducting layers to work with the density of electronic devices. The holes in the circuit allow the metal part to stay connected. 

However, conductive copper and components can be mounted on both sides of the circuit which is not possible in single-sided PCBs. This allows designers to route traces closer, as they can alternate between the top and the bottom. The through-hole technology ensures the precise placement of the electrical devices on the circuit boards. 

These circuits are used in various applications like power monitoring, cell phone systems, test equipment, and UPS systems. Following are a few advantages and disadvantages of a double-sided PCB:

Advantages	Disadvantages
The reduced size makes the circuit compact.	It has a more complex design.
It is more flexible because of its features.	The manufacturing is complex because of the design.
It has an increased circuit density.	The cost is higher as compared to the single-sided PCB.
It has a lower cost as compared to more advanced PCBs.	Not everyone can understand complex functions.
It suits the best complex electronic systems.	There’s a potential for manufacturing defects.

3. Multi-Layer PCBs

Multi-Layer PCBs are one of the major types of PCB. These PCBs have more than two copper layers, the base should be created by at least three base conductive layers. It is called a “sandwich” like PCB because of the several conductive layers that are equally divided by the same number of insulating material sheets. They have improved durability, space-saving quality, and high-power circuit design. 

All the sheets are bonded and laminated together to ensure no air gaps, under high pressure and temperatures, which makes sure that the PCB is stable. These multilayer PCBs are used in devices like computers, laptops, GPS trackers, and tablets. You can take a PCB course to learn more about the field 

Following are the few advantages and disadvantages of multi-layer PCBs:

Advantages	Disadvantages
It is compact in size.	It takes up a lot of space as it is thicker.
It has a high level of design flexibility.	It has a longer lead time and takes longer to develop.
It is sturdy.	The repairs can be complex.
It is suitable for high-speed circuits.	It can not be used by everyone.

4. Rigid PCBs

A circuit that can not be twisted or folded, and that allows the system to not be deformed due to some external force is known as a rigid PCB. The base of the board is a rigid substrate which gives the board strength. They are more durable, cost-effective, and able to produce large quantities. They are constructed of various layers like copper, solder, and a silkscreen layer with the help of adhesive and heat. 

These circuits can be used as single-sided, double-sided, or multi-sided circuits depending on the demand of the electronic device but they can not be modified once made. These PCBs are used in devices like laptops, mobile phones, heart monitors, X-rays, and so on. 

There can be several advantages of rigid PCBs as they can work in single, double, and multi-layer circuit potential electronic devices:

Advantages	Disadvantages
They are cost-effective	They can not be modified or changed once made
They have a lower amount of electronic noise	They are rigid and have strength in the base substrate which gives them inflexibility and rigidness.
They can easily absorb vibrations
They are compact to carry around
They are cost effective

5. Flex PCBs

A circuit board that is made up of several printed circuits and components and arranged on a flexible substrate is known as a Flexible or Flex PCB. They are made up of the same component as that of Rigid PCB, the only difference being that they can flex to a desired form throughout the process. 

Flex PCBs are generally made of polyamide, polyether ether ketone, or transparent conductive polyester film. They are available in single, double, and multi-layer configurations. These are used in devices like OLED fabrication, LCD fabrication, automotive industries, cameras, and so on. The following are the few advantages and disadvantages of Flex PCBs:

Advantages	Disadvantages
They save up a lot of space.	They are comparatively more expensive than the Rigid PCB.
They increase reliability and repeatability.	They require special equipment for fabrication.
They provide uniform electrical characteristics for high-speed circuitry.	They are complex to inspect as they are foldable and can be bent around the corners.

6. Rigid-Flex PCBs

A hybrid form of both rigid and flex PCB is known as Rigid-Flex PCB. It is a combination of both flexible and rigid circuit boards which makes it flexible and easily changeable into any curve or fold. Though it may sound very normal, this flexibility works great with the devices. 

The portions that are flexible in the board are used for interconnection between rigid boards, which allows narrower conductors to take up less space. However, they are a little complicated in design but can work flexibly with a wide variety of devices. 

They are designed compactly, which makes them efficient for a lot of applications in the medical fields, aerospace, and consumer electronics fields. The following are a few advantages and disadvantages of Rigid-Flex PCBs: 

Advantages	Disadvantages
They have 360-degree bendability.	It has a complex configuration because of fewer parts.
They are shock resistant.	The cost is not very efficient if one has a strict budget.
They are lightweight.	The lower weight can become a problem if not addressed.
They have great reliability.	It is not possible to make any adjustments in a rigid-flex PCB.

Conclusion

Primarily there are 6 types of PCB. Single-sided PCB Double-sided PCBs, Multi-layer PCB, Rigid PCB, Flex PCB, and Rigid-Flex PCB. They are compact, easy to repair, and reliable. Each PCB is differently designed and is built for different purposes.

FAQs