Flex circuit TYPES for optimal interconnection

Different types of flex circuits offer different advantages. Some offer low cost, others increased functionality. Learn more about the circuit types available for your application:

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• Single-layer
• Double-layer
• Multilayer
• Multilayer, no plated through-holes
• High Density Integrated (HDI) Flex Circuit
• Rigid-flex
• Flex-Coils™
• Integrated solutions

Single-layer

• 
• IPC 6013, MIL-P-50884 - Type 1
• One conductive layer, either bonded between two insulating layers or uncovered on one side.
• Access holes to conductors may be on either one or both sides.
• Access holes on both sides of a single-layer are more expensive since the substrate must be drilled or punched separately.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components, are optional.

Double-layer

• 
• IPC 6013, MIL-P-50884 - Type 2
• Two conductive layers with an insulating layer between; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
• Access holes or exposed pads without covers may be on either or both sides; vias can be covered on both sides.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components are optional.

Multilayer

• 
• IPC 6013, MIL-P-50884 - Type 3
• Three or more flexible conductive layers with flexible insulating layers between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
• Access holes or exposed pads without covers may be on either or both sides.
• Vias can be blind or buried.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components are optional.

Multilayer, no plated through-holes

• 
• IPC 6013, MIL-P-50884 - Type 5
• Two or more conductive layers with insulating layers between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Through-holes are not plated.
• Access holes or exposed pads without covers may be on either or both sides.
• Stiffeners, pins, and connectors are optional.

High Density Interconnects (HDI) Flex Circuits

• 
• IPC 6013 Class III
• Two or more layers
• Sequential build-up technology
• Standard panel size of 12” by 24” (30.4 cm x 61 cm) and 18” by 24” (45.7 cm X 61 cm)
• Plated blind microvias down to 50 micron
• Foil thickness down to 9 micron

Rigid-flex

• 
• IPC 6013, MIL-P-50884 - Type 4
• Two or more conductive layers with either flexible or rigid insulation material as insulators between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Rigid-flex has conductors on the rigid layers, which differentiates it from multilayer circuits with stiffeners. Plated through-holes extend through both rigid and flexible layers (with the exception of blind and buried vias). Rigid-flex costs more than a standard circuit with stiffeners.
• Access holes or exposed pads without covers may be on either or both sides. Vias or interconnects can be fully covered for maximum insulation.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components, heat sinks, and mounting brackets are optional.
• We also manufacture “flush” rigid-flex, where the top surface of contact areas is level with adjacent adhesive/insulation.
• Minco is capable of sequentially laminating, drilling, and plating circuits, which allows for more flexibility in designing the circuit.

Flex-Coils™

• 
• Flex-Coils are flex circuits containing integral wire coils for use as antennas or inductors. There are three basic types of Flex-Coils:
• Simple, flat coils with wire leads
• Coils laminated inside flex circuits
• “Rim” coils that are built up in the Z-axis
• Flex-Coils have the same advantages that a flex circuit does. Wiring errors are reduced because the coil is oriented in the same spot every time, which provides repeatable signals. Flex-Coils are rugged and easy to assemble, and their design usually guarantees a reduced package size. A Flex-Coil can terminate in any manner that a flex circuit can, or to a wire lead. Heavy wire leads are available.
• See Flex-Coils™ Technical Specification FC01, for more information on Flex-Coil capabilities, design considerations, and the information required for a quote or build.

Integrated solutions

Minco is a leading manufacturer of temperature sensors and Thermofoil™ flexible heaters. We have the unique ability to integrate these components and a flex circuit into a single package, drastically reducing assembly time and potential errors. Call Access: Minco Sales and Support to discuss your application.

 

* Adhesiveless base material also available
**Cover may be replaced by photo-imagable coverlay (PIC)

 Learn more about the benefits of flex printed circuits, or download the flex printed circuit design guide.