What Are Some of the Most Common PCBA Substrates?

The PCBA board plays a major role in electronic products. There are different types of board, with different characteristics and uses. This
article describes common PCBA substrate types and specifications.

1. FR4 Substrate

The FR4 substrate, also known as a veneer, is used in many PCBA plants. It is a fiberglass-reinforced
plastic material commonly used in high-frequency and high-speed digital circuits. FR4 substrate is used
widely in the production of PCBs because it has a high mechanical strength. Its insulation properties
are also very good and can generally meet the needs for high reliability.

FR4 comes in a variety of thicknesses, including 0.4mm and 0.6mm. These thicknesses can be used for a
wide range of applications. The thicker the FR4 sheet, the stronger it is mechanically, and the more
stable its electrical properties are.

2. Aluminum Substrate

Aluminum substrates are used in PCBA production because of their heat dissipation properties, electrical
conductivity, corrosion resistance and low cost. They also have good processing capabilities. The most
common circuit boards that use aluminum substrates are those for LED lighting, high-power,
high-frequency, and other circuits. The LED lighting circuit boards are mainly used because LED heat is
high. Heat dissipation, which is needed to lower the temperature is achieved by using aluminum
substrate.

Aluminum substrates are usually thicker than 1.2mm or 1.5mm. Aluminum substrates are a good choice for
circuit boards with high heat output. They can provide long-term stability and operation.

3. FR1 Substrate

PCBA manufacturers use FR1 as a substrate because it is cheaper than FR4, however, its electrical
properties and strength are less. It is therefore only used in low-end PCB design and manufacture.

It is generally 1.2mm thick, but can be 1.0mm thick. The production cost is relatively low for FR1,
making it a good choice.

4. High-Frequency Board

A high-frequency plate has a special quality. It is ideal for high-frequency circuits because it
transmits signals with excellent quality.

High-frequency circuit boards are used in RF, microwave, antenna, and other circuit applications.
High-frequency boards are thicker, usually between 0.2mm to 0.8mm. They cost more than other types of
board, but their electronic performance is superior, and there is a large market demand.

In Summary:

The choice of substrate in PCBA
design and manufacture is crucial. The substrate type should be chosen according to the
application. The FR4 board is suitable for both electrical and mechanical properties. It is a common
substrate type. Aluminum substrates are excellent in heat dissipation. High-frequency boards are
suitable for circuits that need high-frequency transmission, but their cost is higher than other plates.