Modern world is becoming so fast-paced that people demand for electronic devices which can keep up with speed. As such, the PCB industry also becomes a fast-growing industry. The fastest growing segment of this industry is the market for flexible circuit boards. In fact, when it comes to sales growth, flexible PCBs had started to outpace their rigid counterparts. The key reason being is the flexibility of these boards to better handle more stress than rigid PCBs. Flexible PCBs are also more bendable and can be fitted even in difficult 3D spaces. They’re also lightweight and easy to manufacture. While failures can occur with these boards, a reliable printed circuit board testing can effectively prevent potential problems. The drivers of the increasing growth of flexible PCBs include the following.
Wearable electronic devices
Wearable technology continues to be more popular with the increasing demand for smarter products. These include the smart belts and wristbands, as well as sports helmets. They are embedded into clothes and accessories. Flexible PCBs are needed for them to function. In order to avoid shock or vibration with these wearables, a careful printed circuit board testing should be done.
Medical device innovations
The major trends in medical instrumentation are focused on flexibility and miniaturization. Both of these are achievable with the use of flexible PCBs by providing flexible substrate and compact circuitry. Their substrate materials are safe and compatible to come in contact with human tissue while still being reliable. This is why they are perfect to use in implantable medical devices and surgical tools.
LED lighting
You might be very familiar on why LED lights are preferred over traditional bulbs. They’re highly energy efficient and flexibility is the key when dealing with LED strip lighting. They have to be bendable to suit unique lighting needs of customers. Flexible PCBs are just so great to serve this function. But then again, a printed circuit board testing should not be skipped to ensure safety and reliability of the boards.
That’s why Permatech Electronics strongly believes that rigorous printed circuit board testing is equally important as top quality PCBA process. We always ensure that all our products, be it a flexible or rigid PCB, comply with the industry standards in manufacturing PCBs.