PCB Interconnection Methods
The interconnection of electrical contacts between components and electromechanical parts in a PCB ensures the system functions as per the circuit schematic. Selecting an appropriate interconnection method depends on the specific application, balancing reliability, processability, and cost. Below are commonly used PCB interconnection methods, along with their advantages, considerations, and application scenarios.
1. Soldering Method
This method involves directly soldering wires or cables to the PCB. It is simple, cost-effective, and provides high reliability, but it may lack interchangeability and complicate maintenance.
1.1. PCB Wire Soldering
This method uses wires to connect external components directly to the PCB without connectors. It is often used for connections with fewer external leads, such as speakers or battery boxes in consumer electronics.
Key Considerations:
- Pad Placement: Place soldering pads near the PCB edge with uniform sizes for easy access.
- Mechanical Strength: Use through-holes near solder joints to improve mechanical strength and prevent pad detachment under stress.
- Wire Management: Arrange and bundle wires neatly, securing them with clips or fasteners to avoid damage due to movement.
1.2. PCB Cable Soldering
Cable soldering is more reliable than wire soldering and allows flexible relative positioning of PCBs. It is suitable for connecting two PCBs, often at a 90-degree angle, forming an integrated PCB component.
Advantages:
- Reliable and reduces connection errors.
- Flexible PCB positioning without mechanical restrictions.
2. Plug-In Connection Method
The plug-in method is commonly used in complex systems with modular, “building block” structures, offering benefits like easier debugging, maintenance, and reduced system downtime.
2.1. Printed Circuit Board Socket
This method involves creating a printed plug on the PCB edge to connect to a dedicated PCB socket. It is widely used in multi-board structures for large systems.
Design Considerations:
- Gold Plating: Apply gold plating to the plug area for better wear resistance and lower contact resistance.
- Parallel Connections: Use parallel connections for critical leads to improve reliability.
- Socket Types: Choose between reed-type or pin-type sockets based on application needs.
Advantages:
- Easy assembly and standardized production.
- Good interchangeability and maintenance efficiency.
Disadvantages:
- Higher manufacturing cost and precision requirements.
- Potential contact issues due to oxidation or aging.
2.2. Standard Pin Connection
This method connects two PCBs using standard pins, ensuring parallel or vertical alignment. It is widely used in compact instruments for external PCB connections.
Advantages:
- Facilitates mass production.
- Reliable and simple assembly.
Comparison of Interconnection Methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Soldering | Simple, low cost, reliable. | Difficult maintenance, low interchangeability. | Radios, small appliances. |
| Cable Soldering | Flexible positioning, fewer connection errors. | Requires careful wire management. | Integrated PCB components, modular systems. |
| Socket Connection | Easy assembly, interchangeable, maintenance-friendly. | Higher cost, precision requirements, potential for poor contact. | Multi-board structures in complex systems. |
| Pin Connection | Mass production-friendly, compact, reliable. | Limited flexibility in PCB positioning. | Small instruments, compact systems. |
Best Practices for PCB Interconnection
- Mechanical Strength: Reinforce solder joints with through-holes or secure fasteners to avoid pad detachment.
- Reliability: Use high-quality connectors (e.g., gold-plated sockets) to prevent contact issues.
- Wire Management: Organize and secure wires or cables to reduce mechanical stress and improve durability.
- Standardization: Opt for modular plug-in designs to simplify production, assembly, and maintenance.
KKPCB conducts research on special processing technologies such as ordinary double-sided boards, thick copper circuit boards, high-frequency circuit boards, HDI circuit boards, rigid-flexible circuit boards, FPC flexible boards, buried blind hole circuit boards, and IC carrier boards. Provides PCB design, PCB layout, PCB prototyping and PCB assembly services.
