Printed Circuit Board

electronics · engineering · technology · how things work

Layers like a sandwich. A PCB is built like a sandwich with alternating layers of conductive copper metal and non-conductive material stacked together. This lets engineers create complex electrical connections in a small space.

Connects electronic parts. Instead of using messy wires to connect components, a PCB has metal pathways (called traces) etched into it that guide electricity where it needs to go. This makes devices smaller, more reliable, and easier to manufacture.

Components are soldered on. Electronic parts like resistors and chips are placed onto conductive metal pads on the board and then soldered (melted metal is used to stick them and connect them electrically at the same time). This fastens them securely and creates electrical connections.

Tiny tunnels for electricity. PCBs can have holes called vias drilled through them and lined with metal, allowing electricity to travel between different layers of the board. This is essential for boards with more than two sides that need complex routing.

Inside almost everything. You'll find PCBs in phones, computers, game systems, smartwatches, and countless other gadgets. They're the foundation that makes modern electronics possible.