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What is PCBA? Its advantages and differences from PCB
In addition to material selection, PCBs also vary in flexibility and number of layers. This adaptability is very convenient for designing complex or space-constrained devices. Conversely, rigid circuit boards stand out for their strength and durability, making them a perfect choice where mechanical robustness is important.
PCBA stands for Printed Circuit Board Assembly. As far as the meaning goes, that's all well and good. But the real problem starts here. Many people, in fact most people, don't understand the true meaning and use of PCBA. Many people even confuse it with PCB.
Therefore, we decided to write about what PCBA is. Of course, it has a close relationship with the Printed Circuit Board (PCB). PCB refers to the electronic pad used to transmit electronic signals and dissipate the heat generated by digital transmission.
PCBA refers to the complete electronic board after all components are assembled. It has many incredible advantages, making it a sought-after element in the communication and electronics industries.
However, it has key differences from a PCB. A PCB does not contain any electrical components, while PCBA refers to the complete circuit board assembly.
What is PCBA?
PCBs are made of non-insulating and heat-resistant materials. It has a heat-dissipating substrate that keeps the entire device cool and high-performing. On top of it is conductive material (such as copper) used to electronically transmit signals from one part to another.
The substrate is composed of different elements used for heat dissipation. However, a PCB is an incomplete structure because it does not have electronic components on it.
On the other hand, PCBA is a complete assembly. Once the PCB is ready, you must assemble it. Assembly requires passive and active components. The list of these electronic components includes:
Resistors;
Surface mount capacitors;
Transformers;
Diodes;
Integrated circuits;
Transmitters;
You must install these components on the printed circuit board to prepare a fully usable circuit board. And this assembled circuit board is what we have referred to as PCBA so far. Also, note that electronic components can be divided into two types. These types are:
SMD components: refers to Surface Mount Devices. You must use surface mount technology to install these components on the PCB. You can identify SMD components by measuring the number of pins in the package.
Through-hole components: Through-hole or through-hole components have leads inside. The leads pass through the surface of the PCB board. You must drill holes on the surface of the PCB to insert the through-hole components.
There are two ways to assemble a printed circuit board. You can choose automatic soldering to install electronic components onto the PCB. The more popular soldering technology is wave soldering. It is used for traditional through-hole components.
Another widely used technology for soldering components on a PCB is reflow soldering technology. It is mainly used for SMD components. You can also use mixed soldering technology. Some professionals also use manual soldering. But this is a rather difficult task.
When you have completed the soldering or assembly of electronic components on the printed circuit board, it is called PCBA or Printed Circuit Board Assembly. Before the PCBA is ready, the PCB is not ready for any application. After the PCBA is ready, you can use it for different devices.
Difference between PCBA and PCB
If you are in the electronics, communication equipment production, or circuit board manufacturing industry, understanding the difference between PCBA and PCB is absolutely crucial. This knowledge is not only interesting but will directly affect your ability to choose the right printed circuit board based on your specific needs.
It must be known that they come in various forms, mainly depending on the material used for their substrate or base. There are metal-based PCBs, known for their robustness and durability. Ceramic-based PCBs are highly regarded for their high-temperature and high-frequency performance, while FR4 PCBs, made of glass-reinforced epoxy laminate, are widely used for their good insulation properties and relatively low cost.
In addition to material selection, PCBs vary in flexibility and number of layers. This adaptability is very convenient for designing complex or space-constrained devices. Conversely, rigid circuit boards stand out for their strength and durability, making them a perfect choice where mechanical robustness is important.
There are two types of circuit boards: single-layer (single-sided electronic components) or double-layer (double-sided electronic components). The choice of which one mainly depends on the complexity and specific needs of the electronic device being designed.
Many manufacturers outsource PCBs to different companies and complete the PCBA themselves, but few companies can complete the assembly of electronic components on the PCB.
Nevertheless, you can rely on us to complete your PCB and PCBA. We have more than 10 years of practical experience in printed circuit board manufacturing, and we are also prepared for PCBA. It will surely meet your equipment manufacturing needs.
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