Unlike other specifications like the aerospace AS9100 standard that focuses on the quality management system, MIL-PRF-31032 is a performance specification; in other words, it was established to test PCBs to certify that they meet the necessary requirements for military use. The title of the specification is “Printed Circuit Board/Printed Wiring […]
There are three methods commonly used for bonding multiple layers of RF & Microwave PCB laminates, such as PTFE (Teflon) materials, duroids and other RF materials from AGC Nelco, Isola and Rogers. These three methods are 1. Thermoplastic films, 2. Thermoset prepregs, and 3. Direct bonding often called “fusion bonding”. […]
Since their introduction, flexible and rigid-flex pcb boards have been steadily moving from the fringe of electronic interconnection towards its center. Today, flexible PCBx boards are found in countless products from the very simple to the highly complex. There are numerous reasons for this shift, as there are a multitude […]
Many times, I have seen people from PCB shops cringe when one of their customers starts talking about having a partnership with them. Normally, when a PCB shop hears this, it often means they are going to have to give something up, and the customer is finding a way to […]
John Bushie, ASC’s Director of Technology, explains what a micro rectifier is and how it functions. Transcript: SW: Steve Williams here I’m at American Standard circuits today I’m with John Bushie, director of technology here hey John how you doing? JB: Very well, Steve. SW: So recently, you and I […]
Do you know the total value of a good PCB? When you work with a good PCB fabricator, you need to have a good understanding of the total value of the product. Many companies look for the bottom-dollar price of PCBs and do not take the time to make sure […]
Now, more than ever, we need to partner with one another. Traditionally, my columns have focused on developing a strong working bond with your PCB vendor partners, making sure that you and your PCB fabricators are on the same page and that you treat one another as true partners in […]
Now, more than ever, we have to rely on our PCB partners to help with new product development. Back in the day, OEMs would have their own PCB fabrication houses and could develop new technologies in those houses or—in some cases—departments. Most, if not all, are gone, and that leaves […]
It happens all the time, and even in the best-run companies: Something goes wrong. One of the frustrating things about life is that you can always count on something going wrong. This is especially true in PCB fabrication, where some of the boards they fabricate can take up to 120 […]
One of the most important aspects of the customer-vendor partnership is keeping your vendor aware of their standing with you. The last thing you want is to surprise your vendor by telling them you have been unhappy with their performance for the past month, quarter, or, worst of all, year. […]