Flex Time

May 17, 2019

Flex Time: Alternative Constructions in Rigid-flex Designs

In his last column, Bob Burns discussed how manufacturers of rigid-flex boards use techniques similar to those used by manufacturers of hard boards and flexible circuits, and how techniques vary. That column’s discussion was for a standard, straightforward rigid-flex design. This column will talk more about non-standard designs, which can present process difficulties and require extra care for effective yields.

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January 09, 2019

Flex Time: Pointers for Your First Rigid-Flex Design

If you are new to rigid-flex designs—or have never done a rigid-flex PWB layout—you might wonder how it is similar to and different from hardboard design. In previous columns, I’ve discussed cost drivers in rigid-flex boards and applications where rigid-flex designs will outperform all other packaging methods, which more than justifies the increased cost. In this column, I’ll address critical items you need to know to successfully create a stable and robust rigid-flex design.

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July 11, 2018

Why is Rigid-Flex So Expensive?

One question that I hear fairly often, particularly after an initial quotation, is “Why is rigid-flex so expensive?” In this column, I’ll share with you the cost drivers in rigid-flex relative to standard rigid boards and flex circuits with stiffeners. A typical rigid-flex PWB will cost about seven times the cost of the same design on a hard board, and two to three times an equivalent flex circuit with stiffeners.

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