Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Printed Circuit Board Supplies?

Alex Newth
Alex Newth

When someone makes a circuit board, there are many different printed circuit board supplies that can be used to make this task easier. Blank boards are boards without any circuitry that are ready for custom circuits. The circuitry itself is another one of the common printed circuit board supplies, and these are added to the back of the boards. Transparent printing sheets are not technically required to make circuit boards, but they make it easier for someone to make a layout for the circuitry. A conductivity pen allows people to check for power to ensure the board is working properly.

Perhaps one of the most important printed circuit board supplies is a blank board. This is the board that accepts the circuitry, and it also will have an electrical current run through it to make the assembly function properly. The board itself typically is made from a resin with a solder mask; while it is tough, breaking the board makes it completely unusable, because repair is nearly impossible.

Woman with hand on her hip
Woman with hand on her hip

To make the board work, circuitry needs to be added. The circuitry forms the electrical contacts and the path the electricity will follow, and it has to be properly placed on the board to ensure all the functions work correctly. This supply usually is made from copper, because copper is easy to solder, bend and otherwise work with, and it also is a good conductor.

Unlike the board and circuitry, a transparent sheet is one of the printed circuit board supplies that may not be required, but this sheet still is commonly used. This is a common transparent sheet made from plastic, and a circuitry design typically will be printed to the sheet. The sheet then is placed over the board and heat is used to transfer the design to the board. By doing this, it allows the user to make a layout of the circuitry, and it ensures that the user does not forget to wire any of the sections.

After the board is finished, a conductivity pen commonly is used to check for power. This pen normally has a light at the end of it that lights up when the power is running correctly, and this is one of the printed circuit board supplies that can be used both for creating the board and for repairing it. If there are any problems with the board, then the user typically will first check the current with this pen.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Woman with hand on her hip
      Woman with hand on her hip