The prospect of audio integration technology for smart phone CODEC

The telephone CODEC usually has a Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) interface. Strictly speaking, the PCM concept contains most of the digital formats we are using today, including I2S; the original intention of PCM is to distinguish between digital encoding and analog techniques such as frequency modulation. However, in digital telephony, PCM generally refers to a specific tone data format that is not compatible with Hi-Fi stereo.

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The advent of computer audio has also spawned the emergence of another type of interface. Since quality requirements are similar to the existing consumer audio market, there is a need to play recorded audio files at different sampling rates (especially 8 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz). Although sampling rate conversion in software is possible, it is also very expensive. Therefore, the AC 97 standard, which is currently in common use, hands this task to the CODEC, and it can achieve very high efficiency through dedicated hardware. Currently, AC 97 has become the dominant industry standard in the field of computer audio.

The portable system initially maintained its original identity: the personal CD, mini disc and MP3 player use the I2S DAC, the mobile phone retains the PCM technology, and the audio-enhanced PDA generally uses the same AC 97 as the desktop computer. CODEC. Therefore, this is shocking. The first-generation combination system usually consists of two boards, a telephone and a PDA. The two are back-to-back arranged in one chassis. The PCM call CODEC is controlled by the communication processor, Hi-Fi stereo (AC 97). Or I2S) CODEC is controlled by the application processor. However, the CODEC is not designed for this type of application at all, and there is little or no consideration for the interconnection between the two audio subsystems. As a result, engineers typically insert discrete solidstate switches into the analog signal path, but this also introduces clicks, clicks, and harmonic distortion, and takes up PCB space.

Integration

Obviously, an integrated solution tailored to the above applications is very popular. Inspired by system-on-chip (SoC) design concepts, some vendors have integrated stereo DACs or CODECs into large-scale integrated circuits. However, this type of approach does not achieve the audio quality achieved by a dedicated audio chip. Combining power management ICs and audio ICs often compromises audio quality because power conditioners typically introduce noise into nearby audio signal paths.

Integrating audio into digital ICs is also tricky because true Hi-Fi components typically require a 0.35μm process that is best suited for mixed-signal applications, and digital logic circuits have evolved to 0.18μm or even below. For these two single-chip integration methods, it is not the performance of the compromised analog domain, that is, the size of the entire chip is increased to an unacceptable level (if the entire IC is designed according to larger geometric principles).

The horn amplifier generates a lot of heat and requires a suitable heat sink, which is especially difficult to integrate. Many combo chips lack this capability and therefore cannot be treated as a true "system-on-chip" solution, which typically requires an external speaker driver IC. Another common problem is the lack of analog input or output due to the desire to minimize the size of the IC. In square packages (such as QFN quad flat package, no leads), the pins are arranged around the IC. A few extra pins can be accommodated by extending the length of each side by 1 mm, resulting in a significant increase in IC pitch. For example, an increase from 5 x 5 mm to 6 x 6 mm requires an additional 11 mm2 PCB area; if starting from a 10 x 10 mm package, the additional area is 21 mm2.

Dedicated audio ICs avoid these problems. By integrating other mixed-signal functions such as touch screen digitization with call CODEC and Hi-Fi CODEC, the total number of chip pins can still be reduced. Here, the call CODEC is integrated into the phone chipset, and the Hi-Fi CODEC with additional analog input, output and internal mixing functions may be appropriate. On the other hand, a dual CODEC with a dedicated PCM interface for Bluetooth connectivity is also very beneficial.

There are many ways to implement audio integration. Sharing ADCs and DACs can reduce hardware costs, but not both audio streams can be played or recorded simultaneously. Configuring a dedicated converter for each function overcomes this problem and extends battery life because the power consumption of telephonygrade audio modules can be designed to be lower than the power consumption of Hi-Fi functions. However, such solutions add to the cost of the round. A common trade-off is to use some discrete DACs, but share these ADCs. This allows the audio to be played simultaneously (such as the ringing or music of the second incoming call), but the application processor does not record these during the call - this is an acceptable limitation because the user is like this In the use case, I don't want to see how much the second call has the value of the call. Turning off one channel and running the other at a low sample rate controls the power consumption of the DAC.

Timing and interface

Although it is possible to share internal circuit blocks between the communication and application domains, this situation does not occur in interface applications. This is because each audio stream runs at a separate clock domain at its own clock frequency. Only in this case, the combined smart phone CODEC requires a PCM interface and a separate I2S or AC 97 connection.

In fixed systems, the audio clock is usually generated by a quartz crystal oscillator. For example, AC 97 specifies that a CODEC that conforms to this specification should have an on-chip oscillator connected to an external 24.576 MHz (512 x 48 kHz) quartz crystal, while I2S parts use multiple sample rates, the most common being 256. However, in smart phone design, driven by additional power consumption, PCB space, and clock quartz crystal cost, the designer had to derive a Hi-Fi clock from another clock already on the PCB. Although complex odd frequency ratios need to be implemented by phase-locked loops (PLLs), this approach still favors the use of external quartz crystals because low-power, low-noise PLLs can be integrated into mixed-signal ICs at a lower cost. in. This method is also suitable for some clock signals that other subsystems may require, such as the standard 27 MHz clock of an MPEG decoder in video enhanced telephony applications. In the I2S CODEC, different sampling rates require different clock frequencies. By simply multiplying the word clock LRCLK (which is the sampling rate) by 256 or any other fixed number, the PLL can provide the correct clock in each case. Therefore, component manufacturers generally prefer to integrate one or two PLLs in their smartphone CODEC.

microphone

In the smart phone design, many of the toughest problems are related to the microphone. There are usually at least two types of microphones we consider: built-in (internal) microphones and external microphones, which are part of the headset. In order to eliminate noise or achieve stereo recording, some auxiliary internal microphones may be required, and the car handsfree device may be connected to another external microphone. In addition to talking, these microphones can also record call logs under the control of the application processor, or even the sound track of a video clip.

To completely eliminate off-chip switching, the smartphone CODEC needs to provide enough microphone input, preferably with independently adjustable gain, and a flexible internal routing path to cover all applications. In addition to the recording function, a "side tone" function should also be provided. This adds an attenuated version of the analog output to the analog output so that the caller can hear their own voice. Insertion detection enables seamless switching between the internal microphone and the external microphone when the headset is plugged in or unplugged.

Noise is another common concern. The high frequency and digital components in the line generate interfering signals that are captured by the PCB trace of the loaded microphone signal and amplified by the on-chip preamplifier. Careful board routing plays a big role in avoiding this problem, and using differential microphone inputs is another effective method. However, the inputs have their own unique wiring requirements: the two PCB traces must be side by side and adjacent to each other so that any noise present on one line must also appear in the other line, thus making it Completely disappears from the mic preamp.

Eliminating noise is a separation problem that requires two microphones: one to pick up the speaker speech with background noise and the other to be responsible for background noise. In the analog world, simple subtraction operations can hardly achieve satisfactory results because the two noise signals differ in phase and amplitude, depending on the direction in which the noise comes in. Digital signal processing is also required here, but by digitizing the two microphone signals, the CODEC must make the task easier to accomplish.

Another type of noise that appears in outdoor applications is wind noise. This noise is mainly limited to frequencies below 200 Hz and can be greatly reduced by high-pass filters. The simplest solution is to use a smaller capacitance coupling capacitor at the input stage of the microphone. However, this also prevents the microphone from being used in indoor music recording - which may make the bass disappear. For dual-purpose microphones, filtering should therefore be an option. It is worth mentioning that most audio ADCs already have a built-in high-pass filter to remove the DC bias in the digital signal. Integrated circuit vendors have customized this feature for mobile phone applications: a few Hz for Hi-Fi and 100-200 Hz for calls with wind noise filtering enhancements. Of course, analog filtering and digital filtering can also be combined to create higher order filter characteristics.

Headphones and earplugs

A specific analog circuit is also required for mobile phone headsets. The first obvious task is to reroute the output signal from the earpiece or other speaker to the headset when the headset is plugged in. Although mechanical switches incorporating sockets can do this, they are bulky and costly.

Moreover, the signal level used for the speaker may not be suitable for headphones. Independent analog outputs for the handset, speakers, and earbuds with independent volume control solve this problem and allow for a simpler socket. Although a mechanical switch is still required, a single-hole, single-throw mechanical switch with one end connected to the ground pin is sufficient, so the socket requires only one external pin. However, in a multimedia phone, the activation of the switch does not necessarily represent the insertion of the headset; for a standard size socket, this may be equivalent to a headset without a microphone. Therefore, the presence or absence of a microphone should be detected independently.
For electret microphones, this can be done by monitoring the microphone's bias current: if no current flows, there is no microphone insertion. Conversely, an unusually large bias current is also meaningful: in order to avoid the addition of a single contact to the standard earphone/earphone socket, the button that answers the call from the earbud (also known as the hookswitch) usually shorts out the microphone. . Therefore, the bias current increases, indicating that the hookswitch is depressed. Adding a current sensor to the on-chip microphone bias circuit allows the smartphone CODEC to detect both conditions and automatically take the correct action for each situation.

speaker

Recently, the number of speakers and output power in mobile phones have increased. However, in the 1990s, a single earpiece was a basic configuration. The modern clamshell design features internal and external speakers that can be used to play their respective sounds when the phone is turned on or off. Stereo ringing requires two external speakers, and the popular hands-free feature may require a “large” (referred to as mobile phone standard) speaker in addition to a small handset. For microphones, providing a dedicated analog output for each speaker has many advantages over off-chip switching. Since speaker amplifiers can absorb large supply currents, it is critical to turn off their power supply in a non-energized state. Smartphone CODECs offer an increasing number of granular power management features that allow each output to be enabled or disabled, avoiding any unnecessary battery drain.

In addition, voltage regulators in existing power management schemes typically do not provide sufficient current to drive a speaker that operates at maximum volume. In response to this problem, CODEC manufacturers have designed some on-chip speaker amplifiers to run directly through the battery (the typical voltage of a lithium-ion battery is around 4.2V) instead of the adjusted supply voltage. Although this is usually not energy efficient (the speaker amplifier consumes extra power, the voltage regulator does the same), but does not require an additional voltage regulator.

Bell

Compared with the past few years, the complexity of the bell has been steadily increasing. It has evolved from the monotonous "哔哔" sequence tones into multi-tones, even WAV and MP3, literally speaking of any type of sound. Can be made into stereo. MIDI has become a multi-tone ring interface standard, and many manufacturers have developed low-cost MIDI chips for this new application. Integrating such an IC into the audio subsystem requires the CODEC to have an additional analog input.

These additional inputs are also useful for connecting FM radio ICs, adding another feature to multimedia devices. The MIDI ringtone generation circuit should of course be integrated into the CODEC; however, the general trend is to save the random ring as a sound file and play it through the existing Hi-Fi DAC, which limits the attraction of the idea to IC manufacturers. Force because their IP products don't yet contain MIDI.

future development

So, what about the future of smart phone audio? At present, some digital audio trends worthy of attention include: shifting from stereo to multi-channel surround sound format, and the recently launched "Azalia High Definition Audio" standard is likely to be used by most PCs and Used by laptops.

Although not long ago, those who once ridiculed the idea of ​​placing stereo speakers on mobile phones have been proven wrong by today's market reality; but in the foreseeable future, handheld devices cannot develop into multiple channels. Similarly, it is currently not proven that the cost and power consumption of the new Azalia features is higher than AC 97. The controversy between I2S and AC 97 is continuing, with some designers preferring less complex I2S interfaces, while others prefer AC 97 with fewer pin counts and various sample rates that are easier to handle. Since many low-power processors for mobile phones are now able to provide dual-standard audio interfaces that meet the above two camp hobbies, these two standards may continue to coexist. Conversely, designing a CODEC that supports two standards is quite difficult, because VRA (Variable Data Rate Audio), represented by AC 97, requires a completely different timing scheme than I2S, and a significant number of additional digital circuits.

The experience of successfully integrating an application processor and a communications processor into a single digital device using an audio clock will enable the combination of the call interface and the Hi-Fi audio interface, and may eventually lead the industry back to the low complexity CODEC. But for now, IC vendors are focusing on integrating other existing mixed-signal components into their audio CODECs, including touch-screen functions, voltage regulators, and power management.

Until now, the integration of imaging solutions has prevented the integration of audio and camera or video functions, but this is by no means a law set in stone. At the same time, audio features such as 3D enhancement, graphics compensation and dynamic compression are beginning to spread, and sound quality, power consumption and package size are becoming more sophisticated.

What is Multilayer PCB


The multilayer PCB came into being due to the evolving changes in the electronics industry. The functions of electronics have become progressively more sophisticated over time, requiring more complex PCBs. Unfortunately, PCBs were limited by problems like noise, stray capacitance and crosstalk, and therefore needed to follow certain design constraints. These design considerations made it difficult to get a satisfactory level of performance from a single or even Double Sided PCB - thus the multilayer PCB was born.
multilayer PCB
The definition of multilayer PCB is a PCB that is made with three or more conductive copper foil layers. These appear as several layers of double-sided circuit boards, laminated and glued together with layers of heat-protective insulation between them. The entire construction is arranged so that two layers are placed on the surface sides of the PCB to connect to the environment. All electrical connections between the layers are achieved with vias such as plating through holes, blind and buried vias. Application of this method then leads to the generation of highly complex PCBs of varying sizes.

Multilayer PCB is an integral part of most of the electronics when it comes to connecting number of electronic components on the board. Multilayer PCB helps us getting rid of the old ways of joining components where components were joined together by end to end wiring, resulted in covering more space and weight and unable to fulfill the requirements of more complex designs. Experts are in constant struggle to improve electronic design with compact shape so it provides better user experience and turns out to be less costly than its predecessors.

Now, you have got a clear idea why do we need PCB. There are already different types of PCB Board available in the market i.e. single layer board and double layer board. But, sometimes these boards fail to deliver more complex designs because of availability of less number of conductive layers on the board. Technology is evolving with the greater need of making devices cheap and low weight so they can meet the requirements in less cost and capable of performing more functions than using conventional ways of making electronic devices.

Multilayer PCB boards came into play with the intention of constructing more number of conductive layers on the board than single layer or double layer boards. Multi-layer boards come with a combination of single layer or double layer board and give opportunity to connect more electronic components in less space. These boards are made with number of conductive layers with insulated material between them. Multilayer boards are mostly developed in rigid form, because making multilayer board in flexible form is very difficult to achieve and it also results in more cost than rigid boards. Instead of using flexible multilayer boards, most of the professionals prefer using combinations of single or double sided board that are very effective in most of cases and are cheaper than multilayer flexible boards.

Development of multilayer board totally depends on customers` demands. With the invention of new technology multilayer boards can be manufactured with up to 100 conductive layers, making complex design where more number of components are joined together. Smartphones are a great example of multilayer PCB that gives a benefit of performing more functions using single board. This refrains from spending more money on the combination of single sided or double sided boards, because they cost heavily with no guarantee of fulfilling requirements as multilayer PCB.

Multilayer boards can be manufactured with even conductive layers or odd conductive layers on them. However, it is recommended to use multilayer PCB with even layers because it results in simple design and helps in joining number of different components on the board where board design with odd layers can be costly and pertains to complex design, making it difficult to join number of electronic components on the board. Also, design with odd layers makes it very difficult twisting the board during execution of project, as odd layers are not equally distributed over the whole board structure which can damage the boards when they are subject to under heavy weights.

Some multilayer boards are manufactured so closely, making it very difficult of you to count the total number of layers with naked eye. However, still you can guess total number of layers based on the layers pattern and how they are laminated on the board. Number of different conductive layers on the multilayer boards can be termed as signal, power or ground planes. Power or ground planes are directly proportional to the number of voltage requirements on the board, if there is a need of more than voltage supply on the board, then multilayer boards come with more than one power or ground planes.


The difference between single-layer PCB, Single Sided PCB , and multi-layer PCB


Single Layer PCB vs multilayer PCB


When it comes to Printed Circuit Boards, an immediate question before design is whether to use single or multi layered PCBs for your circuit. The benefit and use of each depends entirely on what you`re intending to do. First we should define each type of circuit board.

Single layer or single sided PCB


These PCBs simply have components on one side of the board and the conductor pattern on the other side. This reason is why it`s known as a single sided or single layer PCB. Often, these are used for simpler devices as no wires can cross if the circuit is to function correctly. These are usually slightly cheaper to manufacture than multi layer PCBs.


How to identify a multilayer PCB


If you have some PCBs to hand and you`re interested in how many layers it uses, there is a way to see without causing damage to the board itself.

Firstly, shine a light into the edge in an attempt to see the copper planes, this may result in you seeing the signal traces. This will only work if the copper comes close to the edge however.

Using some sort of bright light source again, we can see if a board has inner layers even if doesn`t have blind vias. The best place to do this is [where there aren`t traces/planes on the visible, outer layers-" The areas where it`s blocked are usually copper.

Some companies or manufacturers are known to label the individual layers on the board itself, so check around the edges for numbers.


How Are Multilayer PCBs Fabrication?


Packing the power of a double-layer PCB into a format that's a fraction of the size, multilayer PCBs are becoming increasingly popular in electronics. They come in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses to accommodate the needs of their expanding applications, with variants ranging anywhere from four to twelve layers. Layers most often come in even numbers, since odd numbers of layers can cause issues in the circuit like warping, and are no more cost-effective to produce. Most applications require between four and eight layers, though applications like mobile devices and smartphones tend to use around twelve layers, and some professional PCB manufacturers boast the ability to produce multilayer PCBs with nearly 100 layers. Multilayer PCBs with that many layers are rare to see, however, as they are extremely cost-inefficient.


  • multilayer PCB stackup


4 layers PCB stackup | JHYPCB

4 Layer PCB Stack up

8 layer PCB stackup | JHYPCB

8 Layer PCB stackup

10 Layer PCB Stack UP | JHY PCB

10 Layer PCB Stack UP

12 Layer PCB Stack UP | JHYPCB

12 Layer PCB Stack UP


  • Specialized equipment for pressing multilayer


PCBs Manufacturing multilayer PCBs requires a specialized hydraulic press with heated platens. Initially the books are squeezed with a [kiss" pressure of 50 psi prior to being heated to 350F at 350 psi for a minimum of one hour. The assembly is then allowed to cool slowly before removal for further processing. At Omni, the maximum size of a multilayer board is 12"x 16" while the board thickness can range from 0.015"to 0.125".

  • Multilayer PCBs Fabrication Process


The outer layers of multi-layer consist of sheets of glass cloth pre-impregnated with uncured epoxy resin (prepreg) and a thin copper foil.

The lay-up operator has already placed a copper foil and 2 sheets of prepreg on the heavy steel baseplate.  Now he places the pre-treated core carefully over the alignment pins.  Then he adds 2 more sheets of prepreg, another copper foil and an aluminium press plate

He builds up 3 panels on the baseplate in the same way.  Then he rolls the heavy stack under a press which lowers down the steel top plate.  He pins the stack together and rolls the finished stack out of the clean room into a rack.

The press operator collects 3 stacks on a loader and loads them into the bonding press.  This press uses heated press plates and pressure to bond the layers of the PCB together.  The heat melts and cures the epoxy resin in the prepreg while the pressure bonds the PCB together.  The process is computer controlled to build up the heat and the pressure correctly, hold it and then to cool the press down.  In this way we ensure a permanent bond that will last the lifetime of the PCB.  Our board has 4 layers but complex PCBs for defence, avionic and telecommunications applications can have more than 50.  These may include sub-assemblies of cores, prepregs and foils drilled and plated before being assembled into the final PCB.

Once the cycle is completed the press operator unloads the press and carefully rolls the heavy stacks into the clean room.  Here the lay-up operator de-pins the stack and removes the top plate.  He unloads each of the panels from the stack, removing the aluminium press plates used to ensure a smooth copper finish.  The copper foil is now bonded in place to form the outer layers of the PCB.


Design for Manufacturability (DFM) for multilayer circuit boards


PCB design plays an important role in determining the mechanical,electrical and thermal performance of the complete electronic system. Many advanced electronic components use multilayer PCB, because it allows large number of components to incorporate on a single board, hence allowing the higher component density. Some PCBs are highly complex that make use of electronic components that are embedded on the substrate material.

Signal integrity and power integrity are two important features you must take into consideration before you intend to make PCB layout design. You must adopt following rules in order to maintain complete power integrity and signal integrity of the PCB.

Multilayer board design must take into account the components used in later assembly.

  • Conductive PCB trances are composed of copper that comes with finite resistance. Voltage drop in many digital systems can severely influence the quality and accuracy of the system at that resistance when small current flows through the system. Controlled impedance trances are required in order to maintain the high accuracy of the system.


  • If significant current flows through the board, it exceeds the temperature beyond normal value because of the resistance of trances.In order to control board temperature and increase PCB reliability, the width of the trances must be increased, which, if not possible due to the overall predefined circuitry, then copper thickness must be increased to 2 to 3 based on your needs and requirements.


  • Stray inductance can cause voltage spikes on the board which can be handled by using the decoupling capacitors near load.


  • Magnetic field is generated when current passes through the traces. This magnetic field can harm or influence the compoents that come under the range of magnetic field. To avoid this process, components must placed with larger space between them which is near to impossible in case of multilayer compact design. So, alternative way to overcome the affect of magnetic filed is to add return path or ground plane. A ground plane will behave like a shield and helps in providing a return path of any signal. Ground planes generates decoupling in multilayer PCBs.


  • Analog and digital portions of the circuit must be separated from the ground planes and they must be connected at a single point


  • It is recommended to avoid 90 degree trances because of EMI issues.


  • Better to avoid long tracks for the traces containing both analog and digital signals. Noise coupling can be avoided if both signals cross at one point.


Bow and Twist in multilayer PCBs is typically the result of unconventional designs.


Bow and twist is more likely to occur in asymmetric designs which can result in unbalanced stress conditions. For example, odd layer counts (3, 5 layer) are known to cause issues. Another source of multilayer PCB bow and twist comes from designs which specify variable layer thicknesses. For example, a 4 layer build specification of 7 / 28 / 21 creates more risk of deformation than a standard build. Even different circuit configurations can be influencing factors.


Multilayer Thickness Parameters


Standard Multilayer Builds Mils per Dielectric Layer Resulting Thickness
  4 Layer 14 / 28 / 14 62 mil
  6 Layer 7 / 14 / 14 / 14 / 7 62 mil
  8 Layer 7 / 5 / 11 / 5 / 11 / 5 / 7 62 mil
  10 Layer 4 / 5 / 7 / 5 / 7 / 5 / 7 / 5 / 4 62 mil


So how can understanding more about the PCB multilayer assembly process help you reduce your PCB costs?


Ensure the specifications you are requesting are truly needed. While deviations from standard [tried and true" recipes are often possible, each subtle change carries additional risk, usually reflected in higher pricing, slower delivery times and occasional failure which could require a re-design. Additionally, we strongly recommend electrical testing for most multilayer printed circuit boards. Today`s software has helped designers provide consistently more manufacturable PCBs and you should expect even better results when you infuse your designs with the considerations provided above.


Multilayer PCB Disadvantages


The benefits of multilayer PCBs are numerous, making them applicable to a wide variety of advanced technologies. However, these types of PCBs aren't appropriate for all applications. In fact, several drawbacks can outweigh multilayer PCB advantages, especially for electronics of lower cost and complexity. These disadvantages include the following:

  • Higher Cost: Multilayer PCBs are significantly more expensive than single and double layer PCBs at every stage of the manufacturing process. They are difficult to design, taking an extensive amount of time to work out any potential problems. They also require a highly complex manufacturing process to produce, which takes a great deal of time and labor on the part of assembly personnel. Additionally, due to the nature of these PCBs, any mistake in the manufacturing or assembly process is prohibitively difficult to rework, resulting in either additional labor costs or scrap material expenses. On top of it all, the equipment used to produce multilayer PCBs is quite expensive because it is still a relatively new technology. For all those reasons, unless small size is an absolute necessity for the application, cheaper alternatives may be a better choice overall.

  • Complicated Production: Multilayer PCBs are more difficult to produce, requiring much more design time and careful manufacturing techniques than other PCB types. This is because even small flaws in the PCB's design or manufacture could render it useless.

  • Limited Availability: One of the largest issues with multilayer PCBs is the expenses of the machinery needed to produce them. Not all PCB manufacturers have the funds or the necessity for this machinery, so not all PCB manufacturers carry it. This limits the number of PCB manufacturers available to produce multilayer PCBs for clients. Thus, it's best to carefully inquire a PCB manufacturer's capability in terms of multilayer PCBs prior to deciding it as your contract manufacturer.

  • Skilled Designer Required: As previously discussed, multilayer PCBs require extensive design beforehand. Without previous experience, this can be problematic. Multilayer boards require interconnection between layers, but must simultaneously mitigate crosstalk and impedance issues. A single problem in the design can result in a non-functioning board.

  • Production Time: With increased complexity comes more manufacturing requirements. This plays into a key issue with multilayer PCBs' turnover rate – each board requires a significant amount of time to produce, resulting in more labor costs. Additionally, it possibly leads to longer periods between when an order is placed and when the product is received, which can be a problem in some circumstances.

However, these issues do not diminish from the utility of multilayer PCBs. While they tend to cost more than a single layer PCB, a multilayer PCB claims many advantages over this type of Printed Circuit Board.


Multilayer PCB Benefits


From a technical point of view, multilayer PCBs present several advantages in design. These benefits multilayer PCBs present include:

  • Small Size: One of the most prominent and lauded benefits of using multilayer PCBs lies in their size. Because of their layered design, multilayer PCBs are inherently smaller than other PCBs with similar functionality. This presents a major benefit to modern electronics, as the current trend is working toward smaller, more compact yet more powerful gadgets like smartphones, laptops, tablets and wearables.

  • Lightweight Construction: With smaller PCBs comes less weight, especially as the multiple connectors required to interlink separate single and double-layered PCBs are eliminated in favor of a multilayered design. This, again, is beneficial for modern electronics, which are geared more toward mobility.

  • High-Quality: Due to the amount of work and planning that must go into the creation of multilayer PCBs, these types of PCBs tend to be better in quality than single and double-layer PCBs. They also tend to be more reliable as a result.

  • Increased Durability: Multilayer PCBs tend to be durable by their nature. Not only do these multilayer PCBs have to withstand their own weight, but they must also be able to handle the heat and pressure used to bind them together. On top of these factors, multilayer PCBs use multiple layers of insulation between circuit layers, binding it all together with prepreg bonding agent and protective materials.

  • Enhanced Flexibility: Though this does not apply to all multilayer PCB assemblies, some do use flexible construction techniques, resulting in a flexible multilayer PCB. This can be a highly desirable trait for applications where mild bending and flexing may occur on a semi-regular basis. Again, this does not apply to all multilayer PCBs, and the more layers incorporated into a Flexible PCB , the less flexible the PCB becomes.

  • More Powerful: Multilayer PCBs are extremely high-density assemblies, incorporating multiple layers into a single PCB. These close-quarters enable boards to be more connective, and their innate electrical properties allow them to achieve greater capacity and speed despite their smaller size.

  • Single Connection Point: Multilayer PCBs are designed to work as a singular unit, rather than in tandem with other PCB components. As a result, they have a single connection point, rather than the multiple connection points required to use multiple single layer PCBs. This proves to be a benefit in electronic product design as well since they only need to include a single connection point in the final product. This is particularly beneficial for small electronics and gadgets designed to minimize size and weight.

These benefits make multilayer PCBs highly useful in a variety of applications, particularly mobile devices and high-functioning electronics. In turn, with so many industries turning to mobile solutions, multilayer PCBs are finding a place in an increasing number of industry-specific applications.


Advantages of Multilayer PCBs over Single Layer Alternatives


When compared to single layer alternatives, the advantages of multilayer PCBs become even more pronounced. Some of the key improvements multilayer PCBs offer include the following:

  • Higher Assembly Density: While single layer PCBs' density is limited by their surface area, multilayer PCBs multiply their density through layering. This increased density allows greater functionality, improving capacity and speed despite the smaller PCB size.

  • Smaller Size: Overall, multilayer PCBs are smaller in size than single layer PCBs. While single layer PCBs must increase the surface area of the circuit by increasing size, multilayer PCBs increase surface area through the addition of layers, decreasing overall size. This allows for higher-capacity multilayer PCBs to be used in smaller devices, while high-capacity single layer PCBs must be installed into larger products.

  • Lighter Weight: The integration of components in a multilayer PCB means less of a need for connectors and other components, resulting in a lightweight solution for complex electrical applications. Multilayer PCBs can accomplish the same amount of work as multiple single-layer PCBs, but does so at a smaller size and with fewer connecting components, reducing weight. This is an essential consideration for smaller electronics where weight is a concern.

  • Enhanced Design Functionality: Overall, multilayer PCBs are capable of being more than the average single layer PCB. With more incorporation of controlled impedance features, greater EMI shielding and overall improved design quality, multilayer PCBs can accomplish more despite their smaller size and lesser weight.

So, what do these factors mean when deciding between a multilayer and single layer construction? Essentially, if you're looking to produce a small, lightweight and complex device where quality is essential, a multilayer PCB is likely your best choice. However, if size and weight are not primary factors in your product design, then a single or Double Layer PCB design may be more cost-effective.


Multilayer PCB Applications


The advantages and comparisons discussed above beg the question: what's the use of multilayer PCBs in real world? The answer is just about any use.

For numerous industries, multilayer PCBs have become the preferred option for a variety of applications. Much of this preference derives from the continuous push across all technology toward mobility and functionality. Multilayer PCBs are the logical step in this progression, achieving greater functionality while reducing size. As such, they've become fairly ubiquitous, used in many technologies including:

  • Consumer Electronics: Consumer electronics is a broad term used to cover a wide range of products used by the general public. This tends to include products used on a daily basis, such as smartphones and microwaves. Each of these consumer electronics contains a PCB, but an increasing proportion of them are using multilayer PCBs instead of standard single layers. Why? Most of the reason lies in consumer trends. People in the modern world tend to prefer multi-function gadgets and smart devices that integrate with the rest of their lives. From universal remotes to smartwatches, these types of devices are fairly common in the modern world. They also tend to use multilayer PCBs for their increased functionality and smaller size.

  • Computer Electronics: Everything from servers to motherboards uses multilayer PCBs, primarily for their space-saving attributes and high functionality. With these applications, performance is one of the most essential characteristics of a PCB, whereas cost is relatively low on the list of priorities. As such, multilayer PCBs are an ideal solution for many technologies in this industry.

  • Telecommunications: Telecommunication devices often use multilayer PCBs in numerous general applications, such as signal transmission, GPS and satellite applications. The reason for this lies primarily in their durability and functionality. PCBs for telecommunications applications are often either used in mobile devices or towers outdoors. In such applications, durability is essential while still maintaining a high level of functionality.

  • Industrial: Multilayer PCBs do prove more durable than several other options currently on the market, making them a good choice for applications where rough handling may be a daily occurrence. As such, multilayer PCBs have become popular in several industrial applications, most notable of which are industrial controls. From industrial computers to control systems, multilayer PCBs are used throughout manufacturing and industrial applications to run machinery, favored for their durability as well as their small size and functionality.


  •  Medical Devices: Electronics is becoming an increasingly essential part of the healthcare industry, functioning in every corner of the industry from treatment to diagnosis. Multilayer PCBs are particularly favored in Medical industry for their small size, lightweight nature and impressive functionality compared to single-layer alternatives. These benefits have led to multilayer PCBs being used in modern X-ray equipment, heart monitors, CAT scan equipment and medical testing devices etc.

  • Military and Defense: Favored for their durability, functionality and low weight, multilayer PCBs are useful in high-speed circuits, which is becoming an increasing priority for military applications. They're also favored due to the defense industry's increased movement toward highly compact engineering designs, as the small size of multilayer PCBs leaves more room for other components to flourish existing functions.

  • Automotive: Cars are relying on electronic components more and more in the modern era, especially with the rise of electric cars. With everything from GPS's and onboard computers to headlight switches and engine sensors controlled by electronics, using the right kinds of components becomes increasingly essential in automotive design. This's why many auto manufacturers start to favor multilayer PCBs over other alternatives. While they are small and durable, multilayer PCBs are also highly functional and relatively heat-resistant, making them a good fit for the internal environment of an automobile.

  • Aerospace: Like cars, jets and rockets rely heavily on electronics in the modern era, all of which must be extremely precise. From the computers used on the ground to those used in the cockpit, aerospace PCB applications must be reliable, able to handle the stresses of atmospheric journeys while simultaneously making enough room for the rest of the surrounding equipment. Multilayer PCBs present an ideal solution in this case, with plenty of protective layers to keep heat and outside stress from damaging the connections, as well as the ability to be made from flexible materials. Their higher quality and functionality also contributes to this utility in the aerospace industry, as aerospace companies prefer to use the best materials possible to keep their personnel and equipment safe.

  • And Many More! Multilayer PCBs are used in a wide variety of other industries, including the science and research industry and even home appliances and security. Everything from alarm systems and fiber optic sensors to atomic accelerators and weather analysis equipment uses multilayer PCBs, taking advantage of the space and weight savings offered by this PCB format, as well as their heightened functionality.


Why Are Multilayer PCBs So Widely Used?


The specific applications listed above represent only a fraction of multilayer PCBs applied throughout the industry. But why are they used so widely?

Much of the favoritism toward multilayer PCBs lies in industry trends. With electronics progressing ever toward miniaturization yet multi-functional options, the internal components of those electronics must follow the same trend. While single and double-sided PCBs have proven limited in their ability to balance size and functionality, multilayer PCBs provide a comprehensive solution.

While there are several drawbacks to using multilayer PCBs over single and double-layer options, such as increased costs, design times and production inputs, these costs are becoming more accepted in today's world. Functionality is largely favored over cost, and people are willing to pay more for high capacity electronics. Additionally, as the technology becomes increasingly mainstream, production techniques and machinery will eventually become less expensive, especially as new techniques arrive in the industry.

With those irreversible trends and continuing progress of technology, many expect to see multilayer PCBs become even more abundant in the future.



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