It is best to consider flexible printed
circuits as early as possible in the design of an electronics
system. We at Elmec would like to think that the answer to every
packaging problem is 'flexible circuits'! However, you can often
save yourself (and us) a lot of time by considering the cost for
your application as early as possible. You should try to consider
the least expensive alternatives first. When designed properly,
flexible circuits can often save you dollars on assembly costs
and allow you to do things that other types of assemblies cannot
achieve. In some cases good ol' fashioned round wire is the best
solution.
If you are considering flexible printed
circuits, then the following can be used as a generic checklist
of items that need to be considered in the design stage.
Mechanical Requirements
Envelope. Detailed dimensional
constraints
Installation. Sketches or a
description of the intended configuration
Mating assembly. Detailed data on
the mating assembly is required when
mating directly or
soldering to pads on the flexible
circuit.
Flex life
Dynamic flex (flexes
during operation)
Flexing required for
several connects and disconnects
Flexing during a one time
installation
Flexible areas.
Identify which
areas will and will not be bent. Identify areas
which should be rigid.
Parts list or bill of materials or
a description of the components to be assembled
Electrical Requirements
Schematic, net list, wire list, or
a sketch showing electrical connections
Current and voltage requirements
Shielding requirements. Indicate
shielding locations, or indicate which signals
must be shielded. Requirements such as
cross-talk, capacitance, controlled impedance,
and isolation requirements
should be considered.
If few lines have the special requirements, it
may be advantageous to use a
combination of
flexible circuits and coax.
Environmental Requirements
Temperature, pressure, and
humidity operating range should be considered.
Vibration requirements
Chemical exposure such as heavily
caustic or acidic
Additional Valuable Information
Drawings of the next assembly
Actual dimensions of the flat
flexible circuit
Mock-ups or existing chassis
Individual to contact when
technical questions arise.
Elmec Manufacturing
4127 Avenida De La Plata Oceanside, CA
92056
(760)631-0202 ext 22 FAX (760)631-0237
e- mail: sales@elmecmfg.com
