6 Common Design Concerns with PCBAs

Before PGF, There’s the Design

Designing a Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) can be a complex task, and engineers must take into account many concerns to ensure that the assembly functions correctly and meets all the requirements. These concerns include everything from the layout and routing of the circuits to the selection of components and materials. Before starting with the PGF partnership, a company must first solidify its design for the assembly process. 

1. Proper Routing

One of the most important design concerns in PCB Assembly is ensuring the proper routing of the circuits. This means that the pathways for electrical current are clear and free of any obstacles that could cause a short circuit or other problems. The routing of the circuits must also take into account the power requirements of the components, as well as any potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) that could affect the functioning of the assembly.

2. Layout of Components

Another important design concern is the layout of the components on the PCBA. Engineers must carefully consider the placement of the components to ensure easy assembly and enough space for them to function properly. The layout must also take into account the thermal characteristics of the components, as some components may generate more heat than others, and the layout should dissipate this heat effectively.

3. Component Selection

Component selection is also an important design concern. Chosen components must be appropriate for the application and compatible with the PCBA. This designation includes not only electronic components but also the materials used on PCBAs such as the substrate, copper thickness, solder mask, etc. Engineers should select them based on their specifications and characteristics, such as power dissipation and operating temperature range, and should be of good quality to ensure that they function correctly and have a long service life.

4. Safety and Compliance Requirements

The PCB Assembly must meet any necessary safety and compliance requirements. PCBAs in medical devices, for example, must meet stringent safety and performance standards set by certifications such as ISO 13485:2016. This includes ensuring that the materials and components in the assembly are safe for use in a medical environment and that the assembly is properly shielded to protect against electromagnetic interference. Similarly, PCBAs used in other applications such as industrial or aerospace must meet relevant compliance and safety standards.

5. Testing and Validation

Another important design concern is testing and validation of the PCB Assembly. The functionality of the PCB Assembly must be verified through various testing methods such as visual inspection, continuity testing, in-circuit testing, and functional testing to ensure that it meets the specifications and requirements of the application. Some machines to assist with the testing process include X-ray and AOI Inspection. This testing must happen at different stages of the assembly process to ensure the early detection and correction of any problems.

6. Cost

Finally, the cost is always a concern when designing a PCB Assembly. PCBAs can be expensive to manufacture, and the cost of components and materials can add up quickly. To minimize costs, the designer must consider the most cost-effective components and materials and use them in the assembly. Additionally, the design should be optimized to minimize the number of components and the size of the PCBA, while still meeting all the requirements.

Summary

In conclusion, designing a Printed Circuit Board Assembly involves many design concerns that need to be taken into account. Proper routing and layout of circuits, component selection, safety and compliance, testing and validation, and cost are key design concerns that engineers need to address to ensure that the PCB assembly functions correctly and meets all requirements. Skilled engineers and designers with experience in PCBA design and assembly can help to confirm functionality and feasibility before starting with your contract manufacturer. At PGF, you design it, and we’ll build it!