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PCB Classification According to IPC and its Advantages
IPC standards aim to standardize the functionality of PCBs. The Institute for Printed Circuits (IPC) is a global association that develops standards related to PCBs. The IPC has developed over 300 functional standards that are followed by all PCB companies worldwide.
IPC standards aim to standardize the functionality of PCBs. The Institute for Printed Circuits (IPC) is a global association that sets standards for PCBs. IPC has developed over 300 functional standards that are followed by all PCB companies worldwide. IPC categorizes PCBs into three different classes: 1, 2, and 3. These classes are based on the production quality level of design, assembly, components, packaging, etc. IPC standards define the production quality level and functionality of PCBs.
IPC is now known as the Electronic Industry Connection Association. It connects with over 4000 companies globally. These companies include the automotive, computer, medical, military, aerospace, microelectronics, and telecommunications industries. IPC checks their production value, assembly, and component classification, as well as inspection standards.
IPC Classification:
IPC has announced three main classes to differentiate the grade of PCB products, namely Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3, defined as general-purpose electronics, dedicated service electronics, and high-performance electronics, respectively. These classifications are based on various PCB quality levels. These categories are developed according to the IPC-6011 standard.
Class 1: General Purpose Electronics
Class 1 includes PCB products that require assembly functionality. It is also known as a lower-level PCB. These PCB products are simpler, less expensive, and have a shorter lifespan. These products are mainly used in LED lights, remote controls, and toys that do not require high precision and extreme accuracy.
Class 2: High Reliability Electronics
Compared to Class 1, this class has higher quality and more diverse characteristics. These products have higher performance and reliability and a longer lifespan. High-end inspections are performed during manufacturing and testing to ensure product quality and reliability. Class 2 PCB products are not critical and can be used for a long time. These devices are used in everyday communication systems, smartphones, laptops, and tablets.
Class 2 PCBs have many beneficial characteristics:
• Simple and fast inspection/testing.
• Low manufacturing cost.
• Fast manufacturing.
• Less solder and barrel fill required for PCB production.
• Simple and easy-to-use design.
• Easy placement and routing of all PCB components.
• Class 2 requires a plating thickness of 0.8 mils.
Class 3: High-Performance Electronics
These products include PCBs used in critical high-performance equipment. PCBs for long-term and critical applications fall under this category. These devices require precision and robustness as they are used continuously and on-demand in critical scenarios.
These types of PCB devices are commonly used for medical purposes, life support systems, rescue systems, and other critical systems. These PCBs are rigorously inspected and highly reliable. This class of products is used in support systems, electronic manufacturing systems, and other critical equipment used in military applications. The quality of the product is very high-end because these PCBs must be used without interruption and flawlessly.
Class 3 also includes advanced electronics that fall under IPC-6012 Section or Class A. They have very high assembly, component, design, and production costs because they require high precision and accuracy. Such devices are used in aerospace machinery, missile systems, military avionics, airborne systems, and space equipment.
Class 3 products are more reliable and accurate, therefore requiring meticulous manufacturing and perfect, professional testing. Some of its characteristics are as follows:
• Thorough evaluation and comprehensive inspection.
• Manufactured for high-performance hardware and equipment.
• High manufacturing and component costs.
• Highly precise and skilled PCB design and assembly.
• Produces consistently reliable electronic devices.
• Requires extensive cleaning and complex installation.
• Absence of any defects and errors in all manufacturing systems.
• Class 3 requires a plating thickness of 1 mil.
• Class 3 printed circuit boards must be robust and thick to prevent any damage during use in harsh conditions.
Summary:
IPC is dedicated to ensuring higher quality production of PCBs and confirming their reliable assembly and design, along with many other critical attributes. The IPC classification of PCB products is very useful and time-saving as it helps you achieve the desired product. Class 2 and Class 3 differ significantly in manufacturing applications and stability levels. This classification categorizes products based on product quality, characteristics, and name. Users can readily choose the desired product using IPC PCB ablation.
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