Protect Components on Electronics Boards
Electronics boards are vital to the function of a variety of devices. Known as printed circuit boards (PCBs), they send and receive electrical signals to specific locations so that a larger structure can do its work. To do so, they must have a solid design that avoids EMI, a form of electromagnetic interference that interferes with the proper functioning of electronics. This interference can result in a range of problems, from decreased efficiency to potential failure. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect components on electronics boards and minimize these risks.
A common method of protecting PCBs and their components is applying a conformal coating to the electronics board. These coatings are typically made from acrylic, epoxy, urethane or silicone-based substances and can be applied to the surface of a circuit board by dipping or spraying the material onto the board. These coatings create a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture, chemicals and harsh environments from harming a circuit board or its components.
These conformal coatings are also effective for protecting against EMI. They can be designed to cover and shield sensitive components on a circuit board, such as ICs, transistors, diodes and resistors. Shields can help reduce the number of EMI-emitting trace paths on a circuit board by cutting down on disruptive “cross-talk” between traces with similar speeds. This helps to lower the overall EMI output and increase an electronic device’s electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
How Do You Protect Components on Electronics Boards?
In addition to providing protection from physical shocks and impacts, electronic coatings also can improve a circuit board’s durability. This is especially important for products used in harsh environments, where the elements can cause damage or failure to a device’s fragile components.
Another way to safeguard delicate components is by using an encapsulation process. This involves injecting or pouring a protective substance around the entire circuit board or individual components. This provides a robust and long-lasting layer of protection against mechanical stress, chemicals, moisture and dust. This method is more expensive than applying a conformal coating, but it can make a product safer and more durable.
While a fuse is one of the most basic and inexpensive methods for protecting a circuit board, it can be unreliable. Most fuses fail due to overcurrent surges before they open the circuit, leaving downstream components exposed to catastrophic amounts of current. Alternatively, a Zener barrier can restrict the amount of power that feeds into an intrinsically safe circuit, making it resistant to overpowering events.
To further ensure that a circuit board is protected against environmental factors, it can be embedded into a larger piece of equipment with a low-pressure overmolding process. This allows professionals to mold the circuit board directly into the final product, ensuring that it is protected from any accidental impact or external force that could otherwise damage it. This is a great method of protecting fragile and expensive electronic devices against environmental hazards, and can even help to improve the reliability of a product’s lifetime. This is an increasingly common practice in the medical and aerospace fields, where ruggedized electronic devices are needed for a variety of applications.