Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1533085
MARCH 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 79 • Copper thickness: e type and thick- ness of the copper traces affect the circuit's electrical/electronic properties, flexural endurance or formability, conductivity, and heat dissipation properties. • Coverlayer or protective coatings: Define the flexible circuit coatings being used, such as coverlayer or cover coatings, including flexible photoimageable materi- als for environmental protection against moisture, chemicals, foreign debris, or shorting. e choice will also affect the circuit's flexibility endurance, and the bonding materials between circuit layers are critical to the circuit's overall strength and durability. • Manufacturing processes and capabili- ties: A well-draed flex circuit product specification provides a guide to the flex circuit manufacturer, outlining the prod- uct requirements. However, the manufac- turing processes and in-house capabilities of the flex manufacturer will determine what they can make. Moreover, their con- trol of those processes is critical. It's essen- tial to know the capabilities of the chosen supplier, which can be done by looking at product samples and asking for customer references. is may seem tedious, but the product must perform to expectations. ere isn't enough space here to go into all the details when looking to place a design with a manufacturer. Ultimately, it's important to develop a working relationship with your sup- pliers that allows you to tap into their experi- ences, expertise, and advice to steer clear of the landmines that can blow up a product because of oversights, omissions, and miscommunica- tions. Spend the time getting it right. As the saying goes, "It can take many years to build a reputation but only one screwup to lose it." To learn more on this subject, flex circuit suppliers have in-house publications for their customers, and authors have written several instructive books over the past 40 to 50 years, including my book, Flexible Circuit Technology. As the quote commonly attributed to former Havard University President Derek Bok notes, "If you think education is expensive, try ignorance." It still holds true. DESIGN007 Joe Fjelstad is founder and CEO of Verdant Electronics and an international authority and innovator in the field of electronic interconnection and packaging technologies with more than 185 patents issued or pending. To read past columns or contact Fjelstad, click here. Download your free copy of Joe Fjelstad's book Flexible Circuit Technology, 4th Edition, and watch his in-depth workshop series "Flexible Circuit Technology." " Spend the time geing it right. "