A flexible printed circuit (FPC connector) is a type of connector used for electronic equipment, such as communication devices, personal computer components, information devices, and home entertainment. It is also referred to as flexible circuit, flexible PCB, flex circuit, and flexi-circuit. It is a printed circuit board that is capable of flexing. The word “printed,” however, is actually inaccurate because instead of printing, the pattern definition method being used today is actually photo imaging or laser imaging.
FPCs are comprised of a thin polymer film that contains conductive circuit patterns with a thin polymer coating, which is responsible for protecting the circuits of the conductor.
Basic types of flexible printed circuits
There are three basic types of flexible printed circuits:
Single-sided circuit. This type of FPC consists of a single layer of copper conductor on one side of a flexible dielectric layer or film. This type of FPC may be fabricated either with or without cover layers.
This type of FPC has only one conduction layer and features reverse-bared or back-bared pads. It has a very thin conduction of under .10millimeters to .20 millimeters and has supported and unsupported finger areas.
A singled-sided circuit is often used for installation applications and repair, unusual folding applications, and dynamic flexing applications. They are also useful for applications where there are limitations on space and thickness.
Double-sided circuit. In a double-sided circuit, two copper layers are encapsulated with a single dielectric layer. Through-holes connect these metal layers together. This type of FPC may be fabricated either with or without cover layers.
A double-sided circuit may be used for mount assemblies on dense surfaces, shielding applications, and ground and power plane applications. It is also useful when it is not possible to route the circuit density and layout on a single layer.
Multi-layer circuit. A multi-layer circuit is characterized by three to six layers of copper that are separated and encapsulated by dielectric layers. Like a double-sided circuit, through-holes are the ones that connect these metal layers together. This type of FPC may also be fabricated with or without cover layers.
A multi-layer circuit may be used for ground and power plane applications, shielding applications, and EMI/RFI shielding, to name a few. Like the double-sided circuit, the multi-layer circuit is also useful when it is not possible to route the circuit density and layout on a single layer.
Rigid flex circuit. A rigid-flex circuit is composed of several layers of metal, some of which are hard board, while some are flexible.
Flexible. Because it is flexible, there are many advantages to using a flexible printed circuit. First of all, it can solve several unique interconnection problems that makes installation and repair easier, faster, and cost-effective.
Small and light. It can go as thin as .10 millimeters, making it considerable small and light. This reduction in weight makes it the better alternative to wire harnesses.
Ultra thin. The flexible printed circuit is so thin that they are ideal for use in flexible applications for up to millions of flexures.
Formable. It is not only thin but it is also highly formable. This property of the flexible printed circuit makes it easy to store and install.
Simple. It features a very simple design that reduces the number of interconnections that are needed in an electronic package. Because of this, human error that may happen in assembling and routing wires is effectively reduced.
Applications
Given the properties above, a FPC connector has a lot of applications in different fields. They may be used in laptops, antennas, mobile phones, hearing aids, printers, and calculators, to name a few. Continuous improvements in design will only help to create more durable and reliable flexible printed circuits in the future.
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