The History Of Printed Circuit Boards

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are one of the most important inventions in the history of electronics. They allow circuits to be easily and cheaply manufactured and have been a staple of electronic devices for decades.

But how did PCBs come about? And what role have they played in the development of electronics? In this article, we will explore the history of PCBs, from their humble beginnings to their current uses.

A brief history of PCBs

PCBs were first developed in the early 1900s as a way to save space and reduce manufacturing costs for electronic devices. The earliest PCBs were made using copper foil to create conductive tracks on a piece of insulating material. These tracks would then be connected together using solder or other means.

This method became popular and was used to make some of the first commercial radios and televisions. However, the copper foil method had several drawbacks. First, it wasn't easy to create complex circuits using this method.

Second, the copper tracks were prone to breaking if they were not properly supported. This led to the development of a new PCB manufacturing method in the 1930s, known as photolithography.

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Photolithography

Photolithography is a process that uses light to create circuit patterns on a photosensitive material. This process allowed for much more complex circuits to be created, resulting in more reliable PCBs. Photolithography is still used today and is the primary means of manufacturing PCBs.

PCBs have come a long way since their early days. They are used in almost every electronic device, from cell phones to computers. And as electronic devices continue to shrink in size, PCBs will play an increasingly important role in their construction. 

The history of PCBs is a story of innovation and adaptation, and will continue for many years to come.

How to choose a PCB manufacturing company

There are many factors to consider when choosing a PCB manufacturing company. Some of the most important include:

The company's experience - It is important to choose a company with decades of experience manufacturing PCBs. This puts them in a better position to produce the best products.

Capabilities - There are many different types of printed circuit boards. The ideal service is one that can produce the specific type of PCB you need.

Price - This is always an important factor when selecting a PCB manufacturing company. Get quotes from multiple companies before making a decision. Remember, companies that offer the lowest prices aren't normally the best. Opt for a service that balances quality and cost.

Customer service - Choose a company with great customer service. Your concerns will always be addressed promptly.

Certifications - Make sure that the company you select has achieved certifications such as ISO 9001. This indicates a company's commitment to quality and ability to meet the highest standards in the industry.

Quick turn PCB fabrication service

Bay Area Circuits (BAC) is a reliable quick turn PCB fabrication company that operates out of a 30,000-square-foot facility in the Fremont Innovation District. We have been in the PCB manufacturing industry for over four decades and will create the type of PCB you need. BAC provides quick turnaround times and affordable prices. Contact us today to get started.