PCB (Printed Circuit boards) are used in electronic gadgets, like TV, computers, and other communication devices. They help combine different components and convert them into a workable circuit.
Now, there are different types of PCB. You will find PCB in white, green, yellow, black, and other colors. Each of them is designed for a unique purpose and, when used appropriately, can help achieve better results.
That said, in this article, we will discuss the black PCB. We will talk about what it is, how it is different from other PCBs, its benefits and drawbacks. Let’s get started!
What is Black PCB?
The circuit board whose solder mask is black is known as the black PCB. While other materials can be of different colors (or maybe black), but the primary differentiator is the mask coating in the circuit board (it defines the overall color). And, black is not just for coloring. Instead, it defines how the board will perform and its primary applications.
How is Black PCB Different from Other PCBs?
As mentioned above, PCBs come in different colors. The most common one is green. Other colors include black, blue, yellow, and red. The primary aim of the colors is to differentiate the board from one another and protect it. For example, it protects the board from wear and tear during high humidity and temperature.
Here is a breakdown of different types of PCB boards:
Black PCB: Owing to the dark color, it is one of the most complex circuit boards out there. The reason being it has hard to find spaces, planes, and traces. This makes it imperative to use special illumination when repairing or inspecting the printed circuit board. However, to make things easier, you can use a different silkscreen on the board. One of the reasons black PCB is popular is that they are harder to copy.
Blue PCB: The high contrast between the board’s color and that of copper wires makes it easier to repair the PCB. It is also the second most popular printed circuit board in the market.
Red PCB: Just like blue PCB, red PCB has a higher contrast between the planes, traces, and spaces. This makes it easier to find faults and damages.
Other colors include white and purple. Both of which are not good to work with. They don’t have enough contrast between planes and traces, making repair harder.
Why Use Black Printed Circuit Boards?
Though black PCBs are harder to repair and analyze, they offer a wide range of benefits. Here are some of them:
- Good light absorber: As you might already know, black absorbs light more than any other color. Therefore, black PCBs are used in applications where you don’t need light reflection.
- Versatile: Apart from being a good light absorber, black PCBs can be coated with different properties, such as moisture-resistant, chemical, or mechanical properties.
- Looks luxurious: Black color is visually appealing and can highlight the shiny materials in the circuit. Moreover, people associate black with luxury. Even top brands like Apple use black color to mark their presence and build a relationship with their target audience.
- Harder to copy: As mentioned above, black PCBs are harder to copy. Even the copper traces in the circuit are difficult to trace with the naked eye. This makes it difficult to plagiarize the circuit, thereby enabling you to stay authentic.
Drawbacks of Black PCB
- Hard to manufacture: Companies find it difficult to create circuits on black PCBs due to lack of lighting. You need special illumination to route paths appropriately.
- More blemishes: Black PCBs are prone to defects. It usually appears in the form of bumps and small scratches, usually during storage and transportation.
- Toxic ink and expensive: The chemicals used in the black PCB are more harmful than any other board. Besides, black ink can make water treatment more costly when disposing of.
Conclusion
Black PCBs are great for companies that manufacture electronic gadgets. They are good at light-absorbing and harder to copy, making them great for companies producing unique products. If you haven’t invested in a black PCB yet, now is the time.