Printed circuit boards are the foundation that aids efficiency in modern electronic devices. They determine their core functions by combining various elements and wiring mechanisms. Early PCBs were simple designs with a restricted manufacturing process. However, modern PCB designs are complex due to varying flexible options.
The demand for high-performance electronic devices increased due to flexible PCB designs. With this development, the desire for high-density and miniature PCBs grew. Also, tailor-made designs for specific needs become available. This evolution brought about the development of different multilayer circuit boards.
PCB design could be in multiple layers depending on the required end product. A multilayer PCB consists of three or more conductive layers. The buried layers are in the middle of the material. Performing every task might be difficult on two-layer PCBs. This is due to limited cross circuitry because few applications are on the board; thus, the need for multilayer PCBs that will accommodate the more needed application.
A 5 layer PCB implies a design with five different layers. The layers include two inner layers detached with a core layer. It also consists of a base and top layers put aside from the inner layers through the prepreg.
Manufacturing Process of 5 Layer PCB
Designing a PCB is an essential requirement before the manufacturing process. The circuit layout of the design comes before the schematic diagram in designing the PCB. The following are the complete guide and manufacturing process for a five-layer PCB
- Designing the PCB through software such as Gerber
- Photo platting through a laserphotoplotter comes next. It is to frame a film for a separate singular layer.
- Etching pads and traces in the circuit board to create the copper pattern for plating
- The automated-optional inspection helps manufacturers. It helps examineall the five layers present in the design. Therefore, deficiencies in the circuitry become open to the manufacturers through this step
- Oxide is the next step that helps raise the copper roughness. It also prevents uncoupling of the layers.
- The different layers of the epoxy-filled fiberglass get coated together. Performing the coating requires applying high pressure and heat through a hydraulic press. The high-press and high-heat make the fiberglass sheet dissolve. It firmly joins the layers together.
- Drill ofthe linking copper holes that attach the components and the PCB mount is the next step.
- After the drilling process, manufacturers add a copper coat in the hole-side. This added copper is through an electrolessplating process.
- Applying the external imageto get the layer ready for electroplating is next. It goes through the laminating machine
- Electroplating of the conductive pattern
- Etching excessive copper under the panel
- Solder mask that protects the copper surface comes next
- The surface finish serves as the final step in the process. The surface finishing protects the exposed copper surface from oxidation.
5 Layer PCB Stack up Design
Stack-up deals with the arrangement of the layers in the design. A proper layout of stack-up lowers the crosstalk and electromagnetic emissions. It also enhances the signal integrity of the PCB.
The stack-up design of a 5 layer PCB outlines the fabrication of the layers on the board in successive order. It gives essential information about the copper weight. It also explains the thickness of the materials required for the design. Stack-ups are also called build-ups. It supplies information on trace width for various controlled hindrances.
The layers present in a 5 layer PCB circuit board consist of basic materials. The materials include the copper-clad laminate (core), metal foil, and prepreg.
Copper Clad Laminate (Core): It is also called the core. Copper-clad laminate is the bonding of multiple layers of prepreg. The top and base copper foil are also laminated.
Prepreg: This is an interlink glass cloth infused in epoxy resin
Metal Foil: Copper is a very crucial element in a PCB design. It is the popular metal foil used in fabricating all types of PCBs.
5 layer PCB Applications
PCBs contributed to the growth and acceptability of various applications. Various industries adopted its use. This is because it matches the evolving trend in the technological world. Its compact size has contributed immensely to the functionality of numerous devices. The durability and reliability of various electronic gadgets have improved as well.
Its logical progression has made the PCB an omnipresent device. It is popularly accepted in numerous technologies such as:
Computer Electronic
The 5 layers of PCBs are present in everything. Their presence is from the server to the computer motherboard. More so, their superior functionality and space reduction feature makes them an essential application. 5 layer PCB is cost-efficient. Thus it becomes the preferred solution for many technologies in the industry.
Automotive
Technology advancement has made electric car production possible. This is due to the dependence of the automotive industry on electronic components. Electronically controlled elements are present in every car. It ranges from GPS, headlights, and engine sensors. Thus adopting an appropriate electronic component in PCB form becomes essential.
Furthermore, the majority of automobile manufacturers have chosen 5 layer PCBs. It is the most preferred over every other option available. 5 layer PCBs have attributes that include durability, compact size, and high functionality. It also has heat resistance as an attribute.
Aerospace
The aerospace industry adjusted to the evolving trend in technology by adopting the PCBs. The industry adopted PCB applications due to its massive dependence on modern electronics. It ranges from the control room computer to the gadgets used in the cockpit.
The 5 layer PCB serves as a perfect reliable solution due to its numerous protective layers. These layers shield the connections from heat and stress damage. The flexible materials present in the PCB layer make-up play a significant role.
Military and Defence
5 layer PCBs being one of the Multilayer PCBs, have found their way into military applications. Its excellent functionality, lightweight, and durability characterize its choice. It has gained a steady increase in the industry due to its compactness. The military application has a new evolution of compact engineering design. Adopting the PCB suits the engineering design due to its compact size.
Conclusion
As the electronic industry advances towards compactness, the inner elements must follow suit. Multilayer PCBs such as the 5 layer PCB prove to be the all-inclusive application. It allows high functionality.
Although there are setbacks in its production process, its functionality has more acceptance. Also, as technology becomes key, the machinery and production process will be cost-friendly. As technology evolves, the demand for Multilayer PCBs such as the 5 layer PCB increases.
