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Questions and Answers
What is one key advantage of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) over breadboards?
Which type of PCB is characterized by tracks that are covered with insulating materials?
What is a primary feature of a strip board compared to a breadboard?
Which aspect of PCB design is most efficient for creating complex circuit layouts?
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Which of the following statements correctly differentiates between single-sided and double-sided PCBs?
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What was the significant application of PCBs developed during World War II?
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Which material is most commonly used for the dielectric layers in PCBs?
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Which process was patented by Arthur Barry in 1913 related to PCBs?
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Which of the following best describes the conductive pathways in PCBs?
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In what year did Paul Eisler successfully patent the concept of using etched foil for PCBs?
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What is typically used to protect the copper traces on a PCB?
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What does the thickness of the conductive pathways in a PCB relate to?
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What unique property does the dielectric layer provide in PCB construction?
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What is the first step to take when working in Schematic mode?
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Which of the following actions should be performed before exporting manufacturing files?
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What is a critical requirement for PCB Lab printing?
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What should be avoided to ensure efficient space usage on the PCB?
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How should Design Rules be adjusted in DRC?
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Why is efficient use of board space important for PCB design?
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What is the primary purpose of running the DRC in PCB Layout mode?
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What happens if the DRC fails during the PCB design process?
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What is the process by which copper is removed from a board in PCB manufacturing?
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Which statement accurately describes the characteristics of a Surface Mount PCB?
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In a single-sided PCB, what is referred to as the 'Mounted Side'?
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What is a key difference between Additive and Subtractive PCB processes?
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What feature distinguishes the Solder Side on a PCB?
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When designing a PCB, which aspect is crucial to ensure component placement?
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What does the term 'Drill Holes' on a PCB refer to?
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What must be avoided when creating a board outline in PCB design?
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What is the function of the copper pad in PCB design?
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Which statement about the copper pour in PCB design is true?
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What distinguishes a double-sided PCB from a single-sided PCB?
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Which software listed is notable for student use in schematic/PCB programs?
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What is the purpose of the green solder mask in PCB manufacturing?
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What is typically done to all soldering work on a PCB?
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What process must students follow to access AutoDesk Fusion's free trial?
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Which option describes a limitation of some schematic/PCB programs mentioned?
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Study Notes
Types of Circuit Boards
- Breadboards are used for temporary and experimental circuits. They do not require soldering.
- Strip boards consist of parallel copper strips requiring soldering. They are a crude replacement to a PCB for testing or emergency use.
- Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are designed for specific circuits, typically for mass production. Traces are covered with insulating materials, soldering occurs only on exposed copper pads.
History of PCBs
- The concept of using flat foil connectors laminated to an insulating board in multiple layers was proposed in 1903 by Albert Hanson.
- Thomas Edison experimented with plating conductors onto linen paper in 1904.
- Arthur Barry patented a print-and-etch method in 1913.
- Max Schoop patented a flame-spray metal through patterned mask technique in 1913.
- Charles Durcase patented electroplating circuit patterns in 1927.
- Paul Eisler proposed using etched foil to lay down traces on a substrate in 1936.
- Eisler applied for a patent in 1943, but it was not initially accepted.
- The U.S. adopted this technology for "proximity fuses" during World War II, mandating it for all airborne circuitry.
- PCBs gradually gained popularity after the U.S. released the invention for commercial use in 1948.
- Eisler's patent was published in 1950.
PCB Structure - Mechanical
- Insulating layers, commonly known as dielectric layers, are laminated together.
- Dielectric layers are typically composed of Polytetrafluorethylene (Teflon), woven glass, and epoxy (FR-4 being the most commonly used in industry).
- The dielectric layers provide structural support for the circuit and insulate components from each other.
PCB Structure - Electrical
- Conductive pathways, referred to as tracks or traces, facilitate connections.
- These connections are generally made of thin copper foil.
- The thickness of the copper foil is specified in ounces per square inch or micrometres.
- A protective solder mask (green, blue, red, black, white) coats the copper foil.
PCB Manufacturing Methods
- Additive Method: Copper is not present on the board initially, and it is added using a printer.
- Subtractive Method: Copper covers the entire board and is etched away using chemicals or a router.
PCB Types - Pin Thru Hole
- Components have leads that are inserted into holes drilled into the PCB and soldered on the opposite side.
PCB Types - Surface Mount
- Components rest on one side of the PCB and are soldered to flat pads on the same side.
PCB Sides - Single
- "Single-Sided" PCB with components and silkscreen writing mounted on the "Mounted Side".
- The "Solder Side" contains the solder pads, traces, and solder joints.
PCB Sides - Double
- "Double-Sided" PCB with traces, solder masks, silkscreens, and components present on both sides.
Schematic/PCB Programs
- Several free and limited use software options are available.
- Seneca College uses Autodesk Fusion, a software commonly used in workplaces.
- Students can obtain a one-year renewable free trial by creating an Autodesk account and providing proof of their student status.
Fusion: Design to Export
- Schematic mode (saves as a .sch file):
- Parts are added by searching and selecting from the library.
- Parts are connected with the Net tool to indicate trace placement.
- The ERC (Electrical Rules Check) identifies and helps resolve errors before proceeding.
- PCB Layout mode (saves as a .brd file):
- Design Rules are set first.
- Board outline dimensions are set.
- Parts are placed within the board dimensions.
- Schematic nets are replaced with physical copper traces.
- Silkscreen layout text is added for identification and revision information.
- The DRC (Design Rules Check) verifies design integrity.
- Manufacturing files, also known as Gerber or CAM files, are exported for PCB printing.
PCB Printing Lab Requirements
- Tolerance settings in the software should match the PCB Printing Lab requirements.
- Minimize open spaces on the board.
- Ensure compliance with the maximum area limit for individual courses.
- Adjust DRC settings, including Clearance, Sizes, Annular Ring, and Supply tabs.
PCB Design Tips
- Reserve space on the board to mark information such as assembly name, part number, and revision.
- Efficient use of space enhances cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
- Maintain consistency in component orientation and spacing.
- Utilize symmetry and balance when placing similar components.
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Description
Explore the various types of circuit boards, including breadboards, strip boards, and printed circuit boards (PCBs). Delve into the historical development of PCBs from early concepts proposed in the early 20th century to significant patents that shaped modern electronics.