Printed Circuit Boards

Printed circuit boards are constructed from a variety of materials, including paper-phenolic composites, paper-glass composites, glass-glass composites, and epoxy-glass composites. Poly(ethylene teraphthalate) and other polyesters are also used for PCB substrate materials.

A PBC usually consists of the substrate material laminated with a metal conductive material, such as copper or silver, on one or both sides of the PCB. The conductor is made into a series of traces on the board surface by etching away the unwanted conductor. Holes are often drilled through the PCB to connect one side with the other. These 'through holes' are either electroplated with metal, or filled with solder or some other conductive material.