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24 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2023 Flexible circuit applications can be as basic as furnishing electrical interconnect between two conventional circuit board assemblies, or to provide a platform for placing and inter- connecting electronic components. During the planning and pre-design phase of the flex- ible circuit, there will be several material and process related questions that need to be addressed. Most flexible circuit fabricators welcome the opportunity to discuss their customers' flexible circuit objectives prior to beginning the actual design process. e flexible circuit manufacturer will oen furnish guidance that can avoid potential delays in beginning the fabrication process and ensuring satisfaction DFM Principles for Flexible Circuits in the end product. e flexible and rigid-flex circuit development will follow a sequence of events that include timely review cycles, both internally and with the fabrication company selected: • Determine physical constraints • Prepare a 2D flat outline • Develop a model (mechanical mock-up) • Component layout and circuit routing e design guidelines for flexible circuits, although similar to rigid circuits, have distinc- tive differences that are influenced by spe- cific applications, material selection, and the intended operating use environments. e fundamental issues to be defined before begin- Designers Notebook Feature Column by Vern Solberg, CONSULTANT