PCB Manufacturing is a complex process that starts with the design of the PCBs.
Designers use programs such as extended Gerber to create a layout. The software encodes the required information, including the components notation and copper tracking layers.
The PCB design is then forwarded to the manufacturing company. Following a DMF check, a plotter prints the PCB schematic on a film.
The movies are then used to image the PCBs. Once the film is ready, the manufacturer prepares to make the actual PCB which comprises a laminate board.
This body will receive the copper that will structure the PCB.
The next step is to apply a layer of a photosensitive film called photoresists, which are reactive chemicals that harden when exposed to ultraviolet light.
The movie fits and holds the pins on the laminate panel. Any unwanted copper is then removed using an alkaline solution.
The hardened resist protecting the copper is washed off using another solvent. The layers are then aligned by punching holes using an optical punch machine.
The formed layers are fused, and a thin copper foil covers them before they are sandwiched.
Holes are then drilled into the board. The holes will be used for copper lining.
They are small holes with a diameter of about 100 microns.
After drilling the holes, plating is done to fuse the different layers. This is done using a chemical depot. A layer of photoresist is then applied to the panel.
The board will then be passed through an oven to cure the solder mask. It will then be chemically plated with gold and silver before electrical tests are performed to confirm its functionality.
