HDI PCB vs Standard PCB
When it comes to Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), there are different types available in the market, from simple single-layer ones to complex multi-layer ones. However, two types of PCBs, in particular, have gained immense popularity – High-Density Interconnect PCBs (HDI PCBs) and Standard PCBs.
Drumroll
Let's dive into comparing the two types of PCBs.
Construction
As the name suggests, HDI PCBs are characterized by their high density of vias, pads, and traces. The construction of HDI PCBs usually involves the use of advanced manufacturing techniques, such as Laser Direct Imaging (LDI) or Sequential Lamination, to create smaller and denser circuits.
On the other hand, standard PCBs have larger conductor widths and spacing, making them ideal for simpler circuit designs.
Layers
When it comes to the number of layers, HDI PCBs tend to have more layers than standard PCBs. HDI PCBs can have up to 10 layers, while standard PCBs usually have 2-4 layers. This means that HDI PCBs can handle more complex circuit designs and reduce the overall size of the PCB.
Cost
As expected, HDI PCBs tend to be more expensive than standard PCBs due to their complex construction and use of advanced manufacturing techniques. The cost of HDI PCBs can be up to 3 times higher than the cost of standard PCBs, depending on the complexity of the design and the layer count.
Applications
Due to their compact size, HDI PCBs are often used in high-end electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. They can also be found in niche industries, such as the medical and aerospace industries.
Standard PCBs are still widely used in many industries, especially for simpler electronic applications. They are commonly used in consumer electronics, industrial machinery, and automotive electronics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both HDI PCBs and Standard PCBs have their unique advantages and disadvantages.
HDI PCBs are best suited for high-end electronic devices that require compact and complex circuit designs. They provide better performance in terms of speed, signal quality, and thermal management. However, they are more expensive and require advanced manufacturing techniques.
Standard PCBs are still the go-to option for simpler electronic applications due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacturing. However, they might not be suitable for complex circuit designs that require higher signal quality and thermal management.
We hope this comparison has been helpful in making a decision about which type of PCB to choose.
References
- Mike Buetow. (2020, February 3). Understanding HDI PCBs All Around the World. Retrieved from https://www.pcb007.com/flipbooks/2020/ipc-jan-2020/html5/index.html?page=22&noflash
- PCB Train. (n.d.). Standard PCB's Vs HDI PCB's. Retrieved from https://www.pcbtrain.co.uk/standard-pcbs-vs-hdi-pcbs/