Looking to take your PCB design to the next level? HDI Rigid-Flex Technology may be the solution you’ve been searching for.
In this article, we explore 7 reasons why you should consider revolutionizing your PCB design with HDI Rigid-Flex Technology.
From increased reliability to improved space utilization, discover how this cutting-edge technology can help you achieve unparalleled performance in your products.
What is HDI Rigid-Flex Design?
A form of printed circuit board (PCB) technology called HDI Rigid-Flex combines the benefits of stiff and flexible PCBs.
High-Density Interconnect, or HDI for short, is the term used to describe the usage of microvias and fine-pitch components to provide high-density routing in a constrained area.
When rigid and flexible PCB substrates are combined into a single board, the term “rigid-flex” is used.
This innovative technology allows for greater flexibility in circuit board layout, improved reliability, and enhanced performance in electronic products.
HDI Rigid-Flex Design is especially beneficial for industries where space and weight constraints are critical factors, such as aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics.
With its unique capabilities, this type of flex PCB is becoming increasingly popular in the electronics industry, revolutionizing the way we design and manufacture electronic products.
HDI Rigid-Flex
HDI Rigid-Flex Capabilities
The characteristics of this type of flex PCB technology make it the perfect choice for complicated electrical systems with limited space.
The use of microvias and fine-pitch components allows for high-density routing in a small space, resulting in a compact and lightweight design.
The combination of rigid and flexible substrates also provides flexibility in circuit board layout, enabling the creation of three-dimensional structures that would not be possible with traditional PCB designs.
Although fewer interconnects are required and connections and cables are not required, this type of flex PCB technology also provides increased dependability and signal integrity. This results in fewer points of failure, increased durability, and reduced maintenance requirements.
Due to its distinct advantages, this type of flex PCB technology is increasingly taking over as the preferred option for sectors needing electronic devices with high performance and dependability in a small, lightweight package.
Types of HDI Rigid-Flex Designs
Several versions of this type of flex PCB design are available, each with a distinct number of layers and degree of complexity. Here is a brief description of each of the most common HDI Rigid-Flex Designs:
4 Layer
This type of design is the simplest form of this type of flex PCB and consists of 4 layers. It is often used in applications where space is not a significant constraint, but the flexibility of the design is still beneficial.
6 Layer
A 6-layer HDI Rigid-Flex design consists of 6 rigid layers or 6 flexible layers. It offers more routing flexibility and is ideal for designs that require more complex interconnects.
8 Layer
The 8-layer HDI Rigid-Flex design consists of 8 rigid layers or 8 flexible layers. It offers even greater routing flexibility and can accommodate more complex circuit designs.
10 Layer
A 10-layer HDI Rigid-Flex design consists of 10 rigid layers or 10 flexible layers. It provides even more routing flexibility and allows for the integration of advanced components and interconnects.
12 Layer
The 12-layer HDI Rigid-Flex design consists of 12 rigid layers or 12 flexible layers. It is suitable for high-density designs that require advanced routing capabilities.
16 Layer
The 16-layer HDI Rigid-Flex design is the most complex type and consists of 16 rigid layers or 16 flexible layers. It offers the highest routing flexibility and can accommodate the most advanced circuit designs.
Multilayer HDI Rigid-Flex PCB
Standards for HDI PCBs
When it comes to HDI PCBs, there are several industry standards that manufacturers and designers must adhere to in order to ensure the quality and reliability of the product. Here are the four most common standards for HDI PCBs:
IPC-6016
This standard outlines the design and performance requirements for high-density interconnect (HDI) multilayer printed boards. It covers a range of topics, including materials, construction, inspection, and testing.
IPC-2226
This standard is specifically focused on the design of HDI PCBs and covers topics such as substrate selection, layer buildup, design rules, and electrical performance.
IPC/JPCA -4104
This joint standard between IPC (Institute for Printed Circuits) and JPCA (Japan Electronics Packaging and Circuits Association) covers the requirements and guidelines for HDI PCBs with microvias.
IPC/JPCA-2315
This standard provides guidelines for the manufacturing and testing of HDI PCBs with through vias, buried vias, and blind vias.
Why Choose HDI Rigid Flex PCB?
HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs are an excellent option for a variety of applications since they have significant benefits over conventional PCB designs. Here are some of the reasons why you might choose HDI Rigid-Flex PCB:
Lower cost
HDI Rigid-Flex can reduce the overall cost of the product by eliminating the need for connectors and cables, reducing assembly time, and reducing the number of components required.
HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can further reduce manufacturing costs. By choosing this type of flex PCB, manufacturers can save money while still maintaining the necessary performance and reliability requirements for their products.
Thinner PCB
The combination of rigid and flexible substrates enables the creation of three-dimensional structures, which can help to reduce the overall thickness and weight of the circuit board while maintaining its functionality.
Where weight and space are important considerations, such as in mobile devices or aerospace applications, the smaller and lighter HDI Rigid-Flex PCB design can be helpful.
Use advanced component packaging
Ball grid arrays (BGAs) and chip-scale packages advanced packaging technologies offer smaller footprints and higher pin densities than traditional packages, which can help to increase the functionality of the circuit board while reducing its size.
These can also incorporate microvias and fine-pitch components, which allow for greater routing density and improved signal integrity.
BGA in HDI Rigid-Flex PCB
More design options and flexibility
HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs offer more design options and flexibility compared to traditional PCBs. This is because they can be designed to fit into irregular or tight spaces or to conform to the shape of the product.
The flexible substrates of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs allow for the creation of 3D structures, which can provide more space for routing and help to reduce signal loss.
HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can also incorporate blind and buried vias, which allow for greater routing density and improved signal integrity.
Manufacturers may produce products with more design freedom and possibilities by using HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs, which can result in more creative and distinctive products with better performance and dependability.
Improved electrical performance and signal integrity
The use of microvias and fine-pitch components can reduce the parasitic capacitance and inductance in the circuit, which can help to improve signal integrity and reduce noise.
The combination of rigid and flexible substrates can also provide greater design options for reducing the length of signal paths, which can further improve signal integrity and reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Improved thermal performance and reliability
The combination of rigid and flexible substrates can allow for the integration of heat sinks, which can help to dissipate heat and reduce the risk of overheating.
The use of microvias and fine-pitch components can also allow for greater routing density and more efficient thermal management.
In addition, the flexible substrates of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can help to reduce stress on the components and solder joints, which can improve the reliability of the product.
Improved cost-effectiveness
While the initial cost of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs may be higher, they can provide savings in the long run by reducing the need for additional components, such as connectors and cables.
Additionally, HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can help to reduce assembly time and labor costs, as they can be designed to fit into the product with fewer assembly steps.
The use of smaller form factors and more efficient routing can also reduce material costs and improve the yield rate during production.
High-Quality HDI Rigid-Flex PCB
Application of HDI Rigid Flex PCB
Here are some of the most common applications of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs:
Electronic Devices
Several different electronic gadgets, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearable technologies, use HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs.
The thin and flexible design of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can help to reduce the overall size and weight of the device, while also providing greater design flexibility and improved electrical performance.
Electronic Devices
Medical Devices
HDI Rigid-Flex PCB technology finds application in diverse medical devices, such as implantable devices, diagnostic equipment, and monitoring devices, among others.
The robustness and dependability of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs contribute towards the optimal performance and safety of these devices, even under harsh operating conditions.
Medical Devices
Military Equipment
These PCBs have utility in several military applications, encompassing communication devices, radar systems, missile guidance systems, and other military equipment.
The durability and reliability of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can help to ensure that these systems operate effectively in harsh environments and under extreme conditions.
HDI Rigid Flex in Military Equipment
Aerospace Industry
HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can be used in a variety of aerospace applications, including satellite communication systems, avionics equipment, and spacecraft control systems.
The lightweight and durable design of HDI Rigid-Flex PCBs can help to reduce the weight and improve the performance of these systems, while also providing greater design flexibility and reliability.
Aerospace Industry
Final Words
In conclusion, HDI Rigid-Flex PCB is a versatile and innovative technology that offers a range of benefits, including improved performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
With the ability to combine the advantages of both rigid and flexible PCBs, HDI Rigid-Flex PCB is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a variety of industries and applications.
Industry standards ensure the quality and reliability of HDI PCBs, and its many advantages make it a great option for those looking to improve their product design and performance.
