3 New Trends That We Expect in PCB Assembly Services

Just as PCB manufacturing is innovating advancements in electronics assembly, so too are PCB assembly services undergoing their own transformation. An increase in demand across a wide breadth of industries is driving PCB manufacturing to find new and different ways to not only operate more efficiently but also create unprecedented circuit boards.

In addition to defense contractors and aerospace companies, we are seeing automotive manufacturers and telecommunication brands – amongst others – also innovate PCB assembly services. Continue reading to discover 3 new trends that we anticipate defining PCB manufacturing in the near future.

Eco-Conscious Printed Circuit Boards

Currently, traditional PCBs contribute to the growing concern over e-waste management. E-waste is the term commonly used for electronic products that have reached the end of their effective life. Unfortunately, the problem is that many of those products are not built to be biodegradable.

This is precisely why we expect to see more eco-friendly PCBs in the future. These products can be disposed of safely and in ways that won’t expand our footprint on the environment. Alternatively, another innovation in circuit card assembly is the process of extracting recyclable metals from circuit boards that have been disposed of to use in the manufacturing of new PCBs.

Built-In Cameras

Over the years, cameras have been integrated into more and more devices, making them a staple of everyday life. This is becoming true even of printed circuit boards. Surprisingly, miniature cameras can be installed on PCBs to record pictures and videos while in use.

PCB cameras are catching on in both consumer and industrial electronics. For example, consider microscopic medical equipment that is used in non-invasive procedures, or surveillance devices that are relied on to capture breaches in security. PCB cameras can capture invaluable data and revolutionize these industries.

Flexibility in Applications from Flexible PCBs

We are seeing an increase in flexibility across a wide range of devices: cameras, wearable technology, and even smartphones. Similarly, printed circuit boards will become more and more flexible over time. This allows them to handle more stress than traditional PCBs, and they can be folded into awkward spaces and matched to applications that require more movement.

The demand for traditional PCBs will continue to exist for typical electronics, like laptops and tablets. However, the market for flexible PCBs is only going to continue growing from here. Flexible PCBs also have high heat resistance, which makes them a great canvas for advanced components.

The evolution of printed circuit board assembly has been truly amazing to witness over the years. These revelations in our industry are only going to continue stacking up as the next years go by. Make the most of every future trend in store for PCB assembly by working with PCB manufacturing experts who are at the forefront of the industry – EEI Manufacturing.