Blog

Compliance: Ensuring Safety and Performance in Flexible Printed Circuit Manufacturing

When developing and manufacturing flexible printed circuits (FPCs), adhering to industry standards ensures reliability, safety, and performance. Two pivotal standards in the FPC industry are UL 796 and IPC 6013. While both standards guide the design and production of printed circuit boards, their focuses and requirements differ significantly, impacting how...

Electrical Verification Protocols Part #2: Functional Testing of Complete Circuit Assemblies

Part #2: Functional Testing of Complete Circuit AssembliesIntroductionIn the second part of our series, we delve into the verification processes for circuitry once components are mounted. This phase is crucial for assessing the functional integration and overall performance of our PCBs and FPCs. Through a series of targeted tests, we...

Electrical Verification Protocols: Preliminary Testing of Unpopulated Circuit Boards

Welcome to our two-part blog series on Electrical Verification Protocols at PICA Manufacturing Solutions. Ensuring the quality and reliability of our printed circuit boards (PCBs) and flexible printed circuits (FPCs) is paramount. This series delves into our rigorous verification processes, starting from the preliminary testing of unpopulated circuit boards, followed by functional testing of...

Controlled Impedance in Printed Circuit Board Design

In the design of printed circuit boards (PCBs), controlling impedance is a crucial factor for ensuring optimal signal integrity, especially in high-frequency applications. Impedance mismatches can lead to signal reflections, data loss, and compromised performance, which makes it essential to consider various transmission line configurations and impedance types during the...

Elevating Printed Circuit Board Protection: PICA’s MYC50 Conformal Coating

PICA is excited to announce the transformation of our high-precision conformal coating capabilities. We have been integrating the MYC50 platform into our processes to meet the specific needs of our customers requiring advanced conformal coatings for printed circuit boards assembled at PICA. This system has significantly enhanced our ability to...

Understanding Tooling in Flex Printed Circuit Manufacturing: Fixtures, Artwork, and Testing (Part 2)

In Part 1 of this series, we discussed the essential role of mechanical tooling in Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) manufacturing. Now, in Part 2, we will explore the use of fixtures, artwork films, CNC machining, vision punching, screen printing, and electrical testing to ensure precision and quality at every stage of production. Fixtures...

Navigating SMT Assembly Methods for Flexible Circuits Part 2

Part 2: Comparing Panel Array vs. Singulated Carrier AssemblyIn the first part of this series, we explored the key considerations for choosing between panel array assembly and singulated flex circuit assembly on a carrier in Surface Mount Technology (SMT). Now, in Part 2, we will directly compare these two methods,...

Elevating Printed Circuit Board Protection: PICA’s MYC50 Conformal Coating

PICA is excited to announce the transformation of our high-precision conformal coating capabilities. We have been integrating the MYC50 platform into our processes to meet the specific needs of our customers requiring advanced conformal coatings for printed circuit boards assembled at PICA. This system has significantly enhanced our ability to deliver rugged,...

Understanding Tooling in Flexible Printed Circuit Manufacturing: Mechanical Tooling (Part 1)

At PICA Manufacturing Solutions, producing high-quality Flexible Printed Circuits (FPCs) involves a variety of specialized tooling and processes. This blog post, split into two parts, focuses first on the essential mechanical tooling required for FPC manufacturing. Understanding these tools and their functions is crucial for achieving the precision, efficiency, and...

Optimizing Design for Flexible Circuits Part 2: Advanced Design Strategies for Flexible Circuits

In the continuation of our series on optimizing flexible circuit designs, we delve into additional critical aspects that ensure functionality and durability in challenging environments. PICA Manufacturing Solutions brings you expert insights into managing mechanical stresses and enhancing the robustness of your flexible circuits.Strain ReliefWhen integrating thick FR4 stiffeners, consider...

Optimizing Design for Flexible Circuits: Best Practices and Considerations

Flexible circuits' ability to bend, twist, and flex makes them ideal for modern devices where space and weight are at a premium. However, designing flexible circuits requires careful consideration to maximize their lifespan and functionality. At PICA Manufacturing Solutions, we deeply understand the unique challenges and opportunities that flexible circuits...

Navigating SMT Assembly Methods for Flexible Circuits

This blog is the first in a two-part series that delves into the critical factors you need to consider when deciding between panel arrays and singulated carriers for your project. In this first installment, we’ll explore the key considerations that can impact your choice and how they align with your...

Guidelines for Consigning Components & PCBs to PICA

At PICA Manufacturing Solutions, we occasionally receive printed circuit boards (PCBs) and/or components consigned by our customers for their projects. To ensure we can deliver the highest quality service and products, we recommend that customers follow specific guidelines when consigning materials to us. These guidelines are designed to enhance our...

Essential Documentation for Manufacturing Bare PCBs and FPCs

When placing an order with PICA Manufacturing Solutions for bare Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) or Flexible Printed Circuits (FPCs), having the correct documentation and files is crucial. This ensures smooth production, meets quality standards, and aligns with your specific requirements. This article outlines the mandatory and good-to-have documents and files...

Essential Documentation and Data Files for PCB Component Assembly

When ordering component assembly for your Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) and Flexible Printed Circuits (FPCs), it's important to provide the right documentation and data files to ensure accurate and efficient assembly. Below, we outline the mandatory files and information needed, as well as additional items that are good to have...

Advance Soldering Techniques for Printed Circuit Board Assembly

Soldering is a critical process that involves joining electronic components to printed circuit boards (PCBs) using a metal alloy, known as solder. This process not only provides mechanical strength but also ensures reliable electrical connections.The metal alloy used for soldering varies based on the required properties such as melting point,...

High-Frequency Signal Insertion Loss

This blog is the introduction to a white paper called Introduction to High Frequency Signal Insertion Loss. Click the button below to request the full white paper. The white paper has additional sections on measures to improve dielectric loss, how conductor loss occurs, measures to improve conductor loss, and insertion...

Advanced Flexible Printed Circuit Solder Coating Process

Customer: A leading innovator in inkjet technology, our customer is renowned for their advanced and precise printheads. Serving various sectors within the industrial, commercial, and consumer printing industries, their commitment to continuous innovation and quality underscores their prominent role in the printing technology sector.Challenge: The customer required a Flexible Printed...