PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS

printed circuit printed circuits The expression covers all kinds of mechanical arrangements of circuits that consist of an insulating base or substrate, having at least one conductive layer permanently formed on the base. The base often extends in a two-dimensional [2D] plane. Other conductive layers may be formed in a layer structure within the base. The base may support components on its surface or between its layers. Each conductive layer is formed as separate patterns or tracks to connect the components as required. The expression is also applied adjectivally to processes or apparatus for manufacturing such circuits, e.g. by mechanical or chemical treatment of conductive foil, paste or film that has been applied to an insulating base, support or substrate. printed circuit board printed circuit boards a circuit board in/on which a printed circuit is formed. Various electronic components, such as semiconductor chips, capacitors and resistors, may be mounted thereon or embedded therein, while being electrically connected to the printed circuit. Electronic components may also be formed by printing. Single-sided or double-sided printed circuit boards typically have a structure where the insulating support forms the substrate on which the conductive patterned layer(s), i.e. the printed circuit, is/are provided. Multilayer printed circuit boards have a layered structure in which conductive layers and insulating materials are laminated in the form of a substrate, and interconnections can be provided, e.g. by through-holes, vias or internal layers. PCBs may be rigid, flexible, rigid-flex (a combination of both) or stretchable.