Driven by the influx of smart devices and electronic products, the pervasiveness of PCBs has continued to expand. Besides technology advancements and innovations, a wide spectrum of industry requirements has further amplified the manufacturing methods of PCB. The designs are becoming more complex but smaller as well as efficient owing to advancements in the electronics industry. Additionally, the demands in the industry have been met by the development of materials, components and also new manufacturing technology yielding bespoke products. Some of the technology transformations that revolutionized the PCB industry includes high density interconnects, high power boards, Flex PCBs, internet of things (IoT), commercial off-the-shelf-components, and also the component supply chain control. Industry experts predict that like other verticals of the manufacturing industry, the PCB sector will also embrace 3D printing technology as it offers better miniaturization and denser boards.
Mulugeta Abtew, VP, Manufacturing Technology Development at Sanmina sheds his valuable insights on the PCB design sector. Abtew is an experienced professional in the field of electrical and electronic manufacturing industry. He is skilled in DFX, Reliability Engineering, Six Sigma, Manufacturing, as well as failure analysis.