Led PCB PDF
Led PCB PDF
Innovations occurred when LEDs are soldered and mounted directly to PCB’s circuitry and now
called as LED PCBs. It has different types in terms of materials and number of layers that come
in multiple processes to be maximized to different applications.
Another major consideration in the design process is its number of layers. It is composed mainly
of Single, Double-Sided, and Multi-Layer PCBs. It is essential to determine the most suitable
one for different applications. A simpler electronic device would benefit from a Single Layer
while the more the design gets complicated, a more Multiple Layered PCB is necessary. And
each of them differs in functionality and construction.
A single layer PCB has limitations due to its size which can only accommodate components that
can be fitted. And this limitation also brings an advantage such as flexibility.
1. Flexibility
Every LED PCB has its copper as the thickest layer which is less than 1-ounce for a
single Layer LED PCB. This is able to be flexed to fit any curve when attached to it when
used as a strip. It can be folded and bent.
2. Low-density Design
This layer type is best for the low-density design of electronic devices since there is only
1 side of the conductor. The lower the density means the lower the power consumption
of the entire PCB.
3. Operating Temperature
The normal operating temperature of a single-sided range between 130C to 230C. For
an LED PCB, this design consideration is not a problem since LED produces less heat.
Advantages
This layer has the most advantage when used in producing PCBs in high volume with a simpler
design. With its commonality, availability of resources, and ease of its production process,
designing can be done with minimum issues; thus, resulting in minimal design and
manufacturing costs.
Disadvantages
Having a single layer of the PCB means a limited number of components to be placed resulting
in non-applicability to more power demanding electronic devices. With the limited space, only a
few connections can be made which restricts the circuit to lower operating capacity.
Application
With its ease of production and low cost, this design is the most applicable to a part of a device
responsible for a single function with no significant amount of data handling. This is usually
found in common household and technology such as printing devices, LED, calculators, radios,
and power supplies.
Figure 3. Double Layer PCB
A Two-layer PCB offers more current, better heat dissipation and a more stable circuit in
performing its duties. Below are its design considerations.
1. Flexibility
Having 2 layers of copper in this type of PCB, it measures 2 ounces in thickness. Still,
with this thickness, it has the ability to be attached to around the surfaces.
1. Rigidity
This layer is best suited for producing solid hardware that retains in shape.
This design is not only applicable to LED PCBs but also for other electronic devices.
Advantages
This type of layer offers its advantages to a more complicated design of PCB. It can handle a
higher level of design complexity for a more significant added power, and speed. This is due to
the added conductor allowing more components and connections to be accommodated. The
more layers are added, the thicker product is produced; thus, making the device more durable
to handle conditions.
Despite its added components, it is still considered to be lighter than designing multiple
single-sided PCB while maintaining the same functionality. And another property contributing to
its weight optimization is its Single Connection Point which maximizes the connection between
each component.
Disadvantages
With the complex design of a Multi-layer PCB, higher costs resulting from more resources, more
time, and more skill occurs in designing, producing, and repairing. There is aswell a challenge in
the availability of suppliers and manufacturers due to its complexity.
With its disadvantages, the design has to be maximized by benefits outweighing the costs of
producing multilayer than multiple single layers.
Application
With emerging technologies, the demand of complex circuits rises; thus, multilayer PCBs are
utilized. This type of layer is maximized in the application of devices with huge data handlings
such as different computer components, mobile devices, industrial machines and
communication electronics.
2. LED PCB Choice of Material
A. CEM
Choosing Cem-1 offers low-cost production but is only limited to a widely used single-sided PCB
application due to its impossibility of metallization through holes. With the rapid development of
technology, single-sided PCBs are helping a huge amount of controlling other manufacturing
and design expenses.
CEM-1 vs FR-4
FR-4 is the type of material also used for PCBs(to be discussed further later in the article). Both
materials meet the UL94-V0 level flammability. FR-4 has the least vulnerabilities compared to
CEM-1 in terms of physical properties making a lesser cost option in producing one-layer PCBs.
Different criterion makes CEM-1 the most applicable basic material for producing LED lighting
but the most important ones are its ability in achieving perfect balance between cost and heat
dissipation without compromising performance.
B. Aluminum PCB
Aluminum is one of the most thermally conductive materials that dissipate heat. Since it is
physically durable, it is able to handle high-density circuits with multiple components with higher
power demands. With its availability of supply, additional costs are not an impact. It is not only
durable but also lightweight. It is dimensionally stable with only about 3.0% changes applied to
its size when heated up to 150 °C.
Aluminum is easily cheaper than copper but is sold more expensively without any components
attached. This type of board has to be maximized by utilizing it in a more high-temperature
application. It can be physically adjusted to be fit in a chassis but is unable to handle vibration.
And Aluminum PCBs are mostly single-sided since producing double-sided PCBs are costly.
There are multiple challenges in considering Aluminum as the material for manufacturing PCBs.
One of which is the Etching process where the copper to be etched is thicker. Without proper
controls in the manufacturing process, its width might be out of tolerance. Second is the Printing
of Solder mask. Since copper foils are thick, it is difficult to print solder mask. And the third
challenge is the Mechanical aspects of Manufacturing. Mechanical procedures involve milling
and cutters which lessens the electrical strength of the material; therefore, the drilling
parameters should prevent further deterioration of the material’s property.
Aluminum PCB Structures
Its structure is divided into four layers: Copper Foil, Dielectric, Aluminum, and Aluminum Base
Membrane. Copper Foil Layer is the copper layer with its thickness relatively proportional to its
current capacity. The Dielectric and Aluminum base layers are responsible for the material to be
thermally conductive. And Aluminum Base Membrane is the layer that keeps it from unwanted
etching and scraping.
C. Metal Core
One challenge in the design considerations of the high-power LED is to eliminate its heat
dissipation. With the advent of Metal Core material with its substrate able to effectively dissipate
heat in its lighting, it paves its way to the market of PCB manufacturing. This material also has
special magnetic conductivity, high mechanical strength, and special processing performance.
MCPCB Structures
Metal Core PCB or MCPCB can be a single layer, double layer, or multilayer PCB. The simplest
single sided MCPCB has a metal base that can be an aluminum or copper alloy. It is also
composed of a Dielectric Layer. And same with common other structures, it has copper circuit
and IC components with solder mask.
A Double MCPCB consists of two layers of copper conductors. Basically, its composition is the
same as the single-sided PCB with the metal core located in the middle to accommodate both
conductors on top and bottom. And the multilayer MCPCB is just the combination of multiple
single-sided MCPCB with the metalcore being in the center. Its components are the same and
the more layers are designed, the more complex it is to be produced.
Advantages of MCPCB
If an electronic device accumulates a significant amount of heat, malfunctions occur. This can
be prevented by using conductive cooling of transferring heat to a cooler part. This material
possesses high thermal conductivity with thermal resistance able to conductively cool PCBs
significantly fast. It is more lightweight than ceramics. They are non-toxic and are recyclable.
And the most considered advantage is its high tolerance to vibration application due to its core
that reduces its impact.
D. Copper Base
Copper Based PCBs are the most expensive metal substrate with its heat conductivity property
better than aluminum. It is capable of carrying a large amount of current by using a thick copper
foil. It has a relatively small thermal resistance and its viscoelasticity is excellent, being able to
withstand both thermal and mechanical stresses.
Since the material is mainly made up of conductors, copper-based PCBs are low thermal
resistant and high-pressure resistant. It is dimensionally stable withstanding mechanical
stresses. It has good heat dissipation making it contribute to better grounding. And it has the
ability to withstand thermal aging.
Copper Based PCB has a wide range of applications, including Sophisticated Communication
Equipment and Architectural decoration Industry. This is because that Copper Based is
applicable to high-frequency circuit design and fields where sudden variations of temperature
are necessary.
E. FR4
FR4 is another material that is being used in the production of PCB. It stands for ‘flame
retardant’ and ‘4’ implies woven glass-reinforced epoxy resin. It has the property of mechanical
strength and it is resistant to water being able to provide insulation for various electrical
applications. This insulating property avoids signal interference; thus, promoting signal integrity.
Despite the complexity of FR4 material in PCB manufacturing and its property suitable to
different applications, designers as well consider multiple limitations the material brings. One of
which is its Soldering method that should be lead-free. This material is not able to maintain a
constant impedance at high frequencies. It is also not applicable for the material to be exposed
to high temperatures for longer durations making its applications limited.
3. LED PCB Manufacturing
FR-4
This is a commonly used PCB material with the property of flame retardant and has a very low
thermal conductivity.
SgAgCu Solder 75 58
ENIG 5 4.2
SgAgCu Solder 75 58
One major consideration and parameter in LED PCB design is the color of Solder Mask. It is a
polymer layer that protects the PCB from oxidation during the manufacturing stage. Sometimes
its color represents personality while others consider it simply as a design.
For the case of an LED PCB, matte black is mostly the option as it relatively associates LED’s
resolution. Other colors may bring advantages and each of them are known for different
applications.
1. Green
It is the common solder mask to be applied to PCB. This is because the components are
clearly seen on this solder mask. When this is applied, the visibility of the traces between
conductors are high. Since text is usually in white, this will produce brilliant contrast to
enhance readability. As it is finished, reflection to lesser light is observed and glare is
reduced.
This is also applicable to white LEDs when applied to a PCB since both colors result in
good contrast. It comes in a glossy and matte version depending on the brightness of
the LED to be soldered.
2. Red
This is the most professional looking solder mask among the other options. It has a
property of good contrast on components and empty spaces. It is clean looking with a
red solder used.
3. Blue
When used with a mounted LCD panel, the finishes bring good contrast on edges, and
bright background. This is often found on heavy boards. And it is considered as the most
aesthetically good looking solder mask with components soldered.
4. Black
As mentioned, it is best to use black for LED PCB because of its resolution. It is also
unique in that it comes in both glossy and matte versions. It is often used for repairing
processes. Its equivalent is white soler mask as its counterpart.
It produces less contrast when labeled with slightly large electronic components.
However, shadow is produced when light is absorbed. It is also being avoided when high
heat is involved since it discolors the silkscreen.
5. White
White solder masks are applied for clean looks in every environment. The circuit board
will have a good contrast when lighting devices are attached to it in either matte or
glossy version. However, white solder mask tends to hide traces as this makes
inspection of PCB more difficult with limited lighting. But with black silkscreens, its
appearance is highly recommended.
6. Yellow
As any other color, yellow presents a neat layout. It offers cleanliness, visibility, and
style. With the available spaces between components and traces, it highlights its routing.
However, this has not been common in standard as it appears to be poor in contrast with
traces.
7. Purple
This implies it is the most expensive among the choices. It is usually used for submarine
applications. This is one of the most expensive solder mask colors. A purple solder mask
is basically used for submarine printed circuit boards.
Application of the PCB is the major criteria in determining the solder mask’s color to be applied.
It is a best practice to have samples of each color before proceeding to manufacturing.
C. Surface Finishing Process
A PCB surface is the finishing between electronic components and the board itself. When this is
applied, there is the ease of soldering to properly distinguish copper layers. As there are various
types, each offers different properties for several applications. But major criteria considers cost,
reworkability, productivity, environment, and components to be soldered.
In most processes, this is to remove contaminants from the material in preserving the
quality of PCB.
This process involves the PCB being sunk in a molten solder. This allows exposed
copper in the layer to be covered with solder.
In this procedure, it is necessary to eliminate extra solder from the preclean process.
This is done by passing the PCB between hot air knives.
4. Post Cleaning
This first process is to rinse off contaminants such as oil, finger prints, and oxidation film.
Mostly these are organic. This is also to keep the surface bright and build the
preservative in good quality. There is a standard in concentration of cleaning solution.
This is kept to have standard OSP film.
2. Topography Enhancement
In this process, it is where the bonding force between copper foil and OSP solution are
improved. It uses micro etching to eliminate the oxidation from copper foil. This is also to
have smooth and fairly even thick film; thus, maintaining a speed of 1.0 to 1.5μm per
minute of micro etching should be done.
3. Acid Rinse
Immersion Tin (ISn) is the perfect design consideration for fine pitch and planar products. It
works well for protecting the copper but it impacts its performance since the diffusion conflicts
with their chemical property. It is cost effective and reliable. However, it is not good for PTH and
tin whiskering.
1. Clean/Micro etch
This first process is to rinse off contaminants such as oil, finger prints, and oxidation film.
2. Micro dip
Before submerging to the Tin of the actual standard amount of tin, a partial dip is done.
3. Immersion Tin
This is the main process of applying Tin to the PCB. It is done by submerging the
material in an electroless chemical bath. This contains approximately 0.7 to 1.0 microns
of tin to the copper.
4. Postdip
In most processes, this is Deionization Rinse. It prevents building up of ions. This is also
done to eliminate excess tin to avoid corrosion over time.
Immersion Silver
This moderate finishing surface is the most practically cost effective to be used for most
applications for fine pitches. It lasts for roughly 12 months. It has the capability to prevent
tarnishing and is stably high. But is sensitive to any contaminants in any form and friction.
This has the same process as how to apply Tin finish but Silver is applied instead.
4. LED PCB Application
A. Residential Lighting
By making the LED applications for Residents more affordable in the manufacturing process
without compromising its quality, this gives way to LED PCB products to be introduced to the
market of homeowners. It is more power-efficient and doesn’t contain mercury that harms an
individual. It is as well diverse as offering multiple colors making a home more personalized
depending on one’s preferences.
LEDs are preferred in homes than the more traditional incandescent and compact fluorescent
(CFL) due to its main advantages of being energy efficient and their capability to last longer. It is
versatile in a way that it offers options for brightness and light appearance. It comes in a
compact size with a number of shapes being manufactured giving homeowners different options
in lighting multiple spaces of their house.
One modern application of LED PCB is the automated Lighting System. It is a solution to using
light more effectively and efficiently in a long term process by using a controller to automate its
functions and thus enhances how the home looks.
This system has several functions. One common of which is its ability to automatically eliminate
or adjust lighting loads in any area. This contributes to power savings. And with the use of heat
and light level sensors, the system responds to the environment to adjust the light levels
accordingly.
This system eliminates the old method of manual switching where all lights are switched on or
off at the same time and by using rheostats for further additional control. There are functions
that are pre-programmed features in this system that easily control the LEDs. This may include
using selected LEDs at the desired light level or change colors of certain LEDs to enhance the
look of the house.
There are spaces in each home where cabling electricals for lighting are not conducive but
proper vicinity is necessary. This could be under the sink for repair and maintenance purposes,
kitchen cabinets for checking groceries or even checking spaces under the bed for lost items.
This is where power-efficient battery-operated PCB LEDs are used. Some of them are remotely
controlled while others use push-button for switching. With its convenience in easy installation
and efficiency, it is one of the most suitable solutions.
B. Industrial Lighting
Industrial and commercial spaces should offer a productivity environment to employees and
other workers within the vicinity. This is feasible by the choice of light. LED produces bright light
to the surroundings that help in a clearer vision of the employees and avoids eye fatigue. It is
also more comfortable and pleasing to the eye than the traditional bulb. LED offers color
manipulation that conveys mood to the customers which are the desired setup of every
commercial space in welcoming them.
It is also practical to have LEDs in office and industrial places since they use less energy and
can last longer. It produces insignificant heat that helps in managing temperature easier. In this
manner, no further temperature control management is necessary.
With the previous technology of fluorescent and neon lighting, LED paves its way to the market
by bringing more energy saver and eco friendly LED lighting. This is used for directing business
to storefronts with signage for marketing purposes.
In a wide range of applications of lighting, it is essential that mobile technology such as vehicles
and other automotive advancements need efficiently low power in consumption to prolong
battery life and have to be resistant to dust and moisture. This is where LED PCBs are much
appreciated in the field of today’s Automotive Advancements where its different applications are
presented below.
Automotive Industry often uses Aluminum Based PCB LEDs in applications of Exterior LED
Lighting Systems which composes of Headlight, Daytime Running Lamp, Taillights, Fog Lights,
Door lights, Front Position Light, Side Marker Light, and other exterior lighting systems. With the
property of Aluminum being durable and cheaper compared to other materials, it is highly
recommended for Automotive Applications.
LED PCBs are not limited to lighting and indications when automobile industries are observed.
In its infotainment system where interior luxury design matters, Digital Display on Dashboards
and Stereo Systems surrounding the car as well maximize the use of LED PCB which matches
the essence and ambiance of how the car appears inside.
The most complex in an Automotive System is the Powertrain. It is composed of the different
modules controlling the behavior of the engine given the different sensors connected to it,
namely, Mirror Sensor Accelerator Pedal Angular, Fuel Level, Motion Position, Steering Sensor,
Throttle Position, and Transmission Sensors. There are multiple other sensors but these are the
common ones. These provide indications on the Dashboard on an LED PCB.
Engine circuits composed of Power Relays and Electronic Control Units where sustaining to
high temperature is a criterion in maintaining its reliability, Metal Core LED PCBs are utilized.
Since it has the property of withstanding to variations of temperatures, it is the material of
choice.
D. Waterproof LED
Outdoor Decorations
Outdoor appearances are encouraged when there is some exterior lighting on landscape areas.
Common practices of utilizing waterproof LEDs are adding light on Water Fountains, to
illuminate Trees Bushes, driveway, post lights, and garage areas. These common areas are
prone to temperature variations which Waterproof LEDs can withstand.
Solar Lighting
Solar clean energy powers independent PCB LEDs. These are commonly found on outdoor
lawns, gardens, street lights. and even in remote areas where access to electricity is hardly
found. By means of solar lighting, a conducive and eco-friendly solution is introduced.
Cost is the biggest factor of considerations when it comes to Manufacturing LED PCBs. It is not
as easy as reducing cost to make less expense as the quality and deliverables have not to be
compromised for several reasons. These are labor, technological advancements, packaging,
and quantity. As most manufacturing businesses cover $10 to $50 varying to its quantity.
Factors affecting additional costs cover in this section.
A. Labor Costs
Labor costs depend on the geographical location of the manufacturers. Asia has countries with
minimal labor costs. Even most manufacturing facilities have tools and machinery, labor is still
required. In fact, what is really needed are skilled personnel with technical knowledge on PCBs.
This is why labor costs significantly. Just to provide an image of how geographical location
affects the cost is by comparing North America with $1100 quotation and China has its price of
$550. This is with the same quantity.
B. Turnaround Time
This is the factor that refers to the time span upto when the finished product can be done.
Depending on the customer, the faster the deliverables, the higher the costs. It can reach upto
additional 30% costs when deliverables are expected to be finished soon. In other words, this is
the cost that the product is placed on priority including shipping.
C. Quantity
What makes higher quantity lowers the costs, is the assembly costs due to economic scaling.
Meaning, there is a significant drop in costs when higher larger quantities are considered. This
is due to the fact that the initial costs are retained and maximized. And all units can be produced
with no further initial cost. With this principle, higher volumes are best considered in making
more profit.
D. Parts Packaging
There is an exemption in additional labor cost when PCBs including LEDs to properly assemble
A. On Time Delivery
Every product has to be sold at a particular time frame. This is a critical job of most business
owners to identify when a certain product can be sold easily. Even there are offsets and buffers
in the quantity product, for most cases, this is negligible. This makes the delivery a factor for a
company's critical time that every delay is a loss of sales opportunity.
Manufacturers are considered partners with customers. The company that designs requests
manufacturers to produce the product; however, it is also a good practice that they provide
feedback to customers in altering the designs to reduce cost while quality is not compromised.
Every manufacturer should have the capability to produce any volume of products using
advanced manufacturing equipment. This would gain trust of customers continuing business as
these facilities ensure quality commitment.
D. Customer Service
As any other contracts, the design specification should be met. This includes the right
dimension, proper hole dimensions and positioning, proper soldering and right components to
be soldered. In this case, the specifications of LED such as power rating and color have to be
implied.
Sources:
https://www.pcbgogo.com/Blog/What_Is_LED_PCB_.html
https://www.venture-mfg.com/led-pcb/
https://www.shineretrofits.com/lighting-center/faq/led-lighting-applications/
https://www.pcbcart.com/article/content/PCB-applications.html
https://www.elementalled.com/a-practical-guide-to-led-lighting-in-residential-application/
https://www.pcbjhy.com/led-pcb/57412666.html
https://www.allpcb.com/pcb/aluminum_substrate.html
https://www.pcbway.com/pcb_prototype/Metal_core_PCBs.html
https://www.protoexpress.com/blog/advantages-metal-core-printed-circuit-boards/
https://www.lightstec.com/what-is-difference-between-double-layer-pcb-and-single-layer-pcb-of-l
ed-strip/
https://www.pcbcart.com/article/content/PCB-introduction.html
https://www.cree.com/led-components/media/documents/XLamp_PCB_Thermal.pdf
https://www.ti.com/lit/an/snva766/snva766.pdf?ts=1597146068821&ref_url=https%253A%252F
%252Fwww.google.com%252F
http://blog.optimumdesign.com/pcb-surface-finishes-comparison-hasl-osp-enig
https://www.pcbcart.com/article/content/basics-of-OSP-surface-finish.html
https://www.pcbcart.com/article/content/surface-finish-intro-and-comparision.html
https://www.candorind.com/how-much-does-pcb-assembly-cost/#how-much-does-pcb-assembly
-cost