Flexible Printed Circuits

Flexible printed circuits are manufactured on polyimide substrates using an SMT process.
Nov. 9, 2006

The process accommodates package sizes down to 0402 and 0.5-mm-pitchleaded packages. To keep the circuits thinner and more flexible, the process uses adhesive-less construction. For additional support and strain relief, polyimide or epoxy-glass stiffeners can be laminated in place. Laser-processing capability supports precision drilling of hole sizes down to 0.002-in. diameter for microvia and blindvia multilayer circuits. Selective plating of gold and tin lead allows for multiple attachment methods on the same circuit. The circuits are used in medical device, medical implant, diagnostic ultrasound, telecommunications, and patient-monitoring applications.

Tech-Etch Inc., 45 Aldrin Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360, (508) 747-0300, tech-etch.com

About the Author

Sign up for Machine Design eNewsletters
Get the latest news and updates.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!