Controlled Depth Routing vs Back Drilling: The Battle for Precision
When it comes to printed circuit boards (PCBs), precision is key. Both Controlled Depth Routing (CDR) and Back Drilling (BD) are techniques that help achieve the level of precision required in modern electronics. However, which one is better? In this post, we'll compare these two techniques, giving you accurate data-backed insights, without any bias. So, let's jump right in!
Controlled Depth Routing
Controlled Depth Routing is a process that creates a route that extends partially or completely through the circuit board. This technique can be used to make cutouts, holes, slots, or any other shape in the PCB. The process involves creating a route layer that is thicker than the desired depth, and the router is then programmed to cut only through the top layer, leaving the bottom layer untouched. This process ensures that the router does not cut too deep, and the board's structural integrity is maintained.
CDR is a slower process as compared to conventional routing. The technique is commonly used in high-density applications, like microelectronics, to maintain the board's surface integrity.
Back Drilling
Back Drilling removes unused portions of vias that cause signal integrity issues. It is a subtractive process that removes the unused portion of the via barrel from the opposite end of the board. This leaves a clean signal path, free from any parasitic capacitance or inductance. The process involves routing only from the backside of the PCB and extending partially into the via hole.
Back Drilling can be a more efficient process than CDR. It can be used to make multiple vias on a PCB, so they don't affect the signal path. It is commonly used in high-speed applications or designs that have multiple ground/power planes.
Which Technique to Use?
The choice of technique depends on the PCB design and requirements. Controlled Depth Routing is ideal for applications that have tight tolerances for routed features or high-density designs. On the other hand, Back Drilling is best suited for high-speed designs or applications that need to remove unwanted portions of vias.
Conclusion
Both Controlled Depth Routing and Back Drilling are valuable techniques used in modern electronics to create precise PCB designs. Each has its respective strengths and weaknesses, and the choice ultimately depends on the PCB requirements. Hopefully, this blog post has helped you understand the difference between the two techniques and when to use each.
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