How Do Single And Multi Layered PCBs Differ?

How-Do-Single-And-Multi-Layered-PCBs-Differ

PCBs or Printed Circuit Boards are used in virtually every electronic device in all residential and commercial applications. These components are available in two types – single layered and multi layered. It is important to understand what these two types are and how they differ, their pros and cons, their design, and everything else, so that you can make an informed decision as to which one you should use when you are getting your devices customized that use PCBs. Miracle Electronics is one manufacturer who can design and develop all kinds of PCB assembly from India, both ready as well as specially customized for you.

What are single layered PCBs?

Single layered PCBs, as the name suggests, have only a single layer, wherein there are various components installed on one side of the sheet, and a conductor pattern on the other side. This PCB contains a substrate layer, a copper conductive layer, a protective solder mask, and a silk screen. As these PCBs are simple in construction, they are used in simple devices, and are lesser expensive as compared to multi-layered PCBs, as they don’t require much time to design and produce them, and can be produced in huge volumes. Moreover, they require fewer resources; there is no requirement of specialized PCB assembly services to obtain this product. However, apart from all these benefits, single layered PCBs operate at slower speeds and lower capacities; the reasons why they are not preferred in complex electronic devices. These PCBs are used in simple applications like household appliances, LED lights, calculators, and radios.

What are multi layered PCBs?

Again as the name here suggests, multi layered PCBs are those that have multiple layers on a single board. Starting from double-layered PCBs, there is one substrate layer and two layers of conductive material, one on each side of the substrate. When such several double-layered PCBs are put together with insulation in between them, they form multi layered PCBs. This is why multi layered PCBs have even number of layers like 4, 6, 8, 10, and so on. The biggest multi layered PCB that can be formed can have up to 130 layers!

With multiple layers come multiple conductor patterns, which give more area for wiring. This is the reason these multi layered PCBs can be used for complex and more technical devices. However, these PCBs are more expensive than single layered PCBs due to the number of layers and the time spent for construction. More the layers, higher the price. But, along with the price come benefits of more power and more durability. Multi layered PCBs are considered to be of extremely high quality as they require expertise to be designed and manufactured. These PCBs are used in complex systems like smartphones, smartwatches, computers, air conditions, microwaves, medical equipment, Xray machines, GPS systems, automotives, and aerospace applications. These complex applications require multiple connections, which only multi layered PCBs can provide.

After reading the above blog, you may think that single layered PCBs are inferior to multi layered PCBs, but this is not so. Both single and multi layered PCBs are different in their own ways, with their own advantages, and their own usages. Single layered PCBs can’t be used where multi layered PCBs are used; and equally, multi layered PCBs can’t be used where single layered PCBs are used. Thus, both PCB types have their own established place in today’s electronic world. So, instead of choosing just one type out of the two, understand which type of PCB your application requires, and only then get your PCB assembly from India customized or installed.

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