Introduction For The Advantages And Applications Of Single-layer/Multi-layer Boards

Before designing a printed circuit board, you need to decide whether you want to use a single or multilayer PCB. Both types of design are common. So what is the right type for your project? What’s the difference? As the name suggests, a single-layer board has only one substrate, also known as a substrate, while a multilayer PCB has multiple layers.

Advantages and applications of single layer board

A single layer plate is sometimes called a single panel. Generally speaking, a single layer plate has components on one side and copper wires on the other. A single layer plate consists of a base layer, a conductive metal layer, a protective solder resistance film and screen printing.

1) The advantages and disadvantages of single-layer PCB are as follows:

Advantages:

Lower cost, simpler design and production, and shorter delivery times

Disadvantages:

For complex projects, especially when the number of components is large and the size requirements are small, a single panel can not make a lower operating capacity, a larger size and a larger weight

2) Single layer PCB application

Single panels have become the preferred choice for various electronic products due to their low cost and relative ease of production. Although multilayer panels are becoming more common as electronics become more complex, single-layer panels are still widely used. They typically occur in single-purpose devices that do not need to store large amounts of data or access the network.

Single layer PCB is commonly used in small household appliances such as coffee makers. They are also the PCBs used in most calculators, radios, printers and LED lights. Simpler storage devices, such as solid-state drives, also typically use single-sided PCBs, as do components such as power supplies and many different types of sensors.

The advantages and applications of multilayer board

Multilayer PCBs are made of three or more double panels stacked on top of each other.

Usually, the number of layers of the multilayer board is usually an even number, between 4 and 12 layers, why not use an odd number of layers? Because an odd number of layers can cause problems such as warping and distortion after welding.

A conductive metal is provided on both sides of each substrate layer on a multilayer board.

The plates are joined together using a special adhesive and there is insulating material between each plate. At the outermost edge of the multilayer, is the solder mask layer.

Multiply plates use through holes to allow the different layers to communicate with each other.

Through holes are generally divided into three categories:

Penetration hole: Through each layer of a circuit board

Blind hole: Connect outer layer to inner layer

Buried Hole: Connecting two inner layers so that they cannot be seen from the outside

1) The advantages and disadvantages of multi-layer PCB are as follows:

Advantages:

Able to handle more complex features with higher quality with greater power, greater operating capability and faster speed with enhanced durability with smaller size and lighter weight

Disadvantages:

Higher costs, more complex design and production, longer delivery times, more complex maintenance

2) Multilayer PCB applications

With the development of technology, multilayer PCB is becoming more and more common.

The complexity and small size of many electronic devices today necessitated the use of multiple layers on their circuit boards.

Multilayer printed circuit boards appear in many computer components, including motherboards and servers. From laptops and tablets to smartphones and smartwatches. Smartphones typically require about 12 layers. Other products that are not as complex as a smartphone but are too complex for a single-sided printed circuit board typically use four to eight layers. Like microwave ovens and air conditioners.

In addition, due to the reliability, small size and lightweight design required for medical devices, they can also usually be run on three or more layers of board. Multilayer printed circuit boards are also used in X-ray machines, heart monitors, CAT scans and many other applications.

The automotive and aerospace industries are also increasingly using electronic components that are both durable and lightweight, often using multilayer panels. These components must be able to withstand wear, high temperatures and other harsh conditions. On-board computers, GPS systems, engine sensors, and headlight switches are also commonly used in multilayer panels.

How to determine the need for a single or multilayer PCB

To determine whether your project needs a single or multilayer PCB, consider the needs of the project and the type that best suits it. Ask yourself these five questions:

1. What level of functionality do I need?

If it is more complex, multiple layers may be required.

2. What is the maximum size of the board?

Multilayer panels can accommodate more functions in a smaller space.

3. Is durability a priority?

If so, use multiple layers.

4. What’s my budget?

For more modest budgets, single-layer panels work best.

5. How soon do I need the PCB?

Compared with multi-layer PCB, single-layer PCB has shorter.