History of Printed Circuit Boards

The history of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) is a fascinating story that traces back to the beginnings of electronics, encompassing innovations that fundamentally changed the way electronic devices are manufactured. In an era when most electronic components were of significant size, a method of connecting these parts had to be developed, leading to the technologies we use today to manufacture printed circuit boards.

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The First Steps Towards PCBs:

Metal Strips and Wires As early as the 1850s, long before the advent of modern circuit boards, simple technological methods were used to connect electronic components. At this time, components were large and their connections were made using metal strips or wires attached to wooden or metal boards. Initially, wooden boards were replaced by metal chassis, which allowed for more stable and durable constructions. Although this technology was quite primitive, it was sufficient for the first experiments with electronic circuits.

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The First Step Toward "Printed Circuits"

The true history of printed circuit boards, as we know them today, began in 1925 when Charles Ducas patented a method of printing conductive material onto an insulating substrate using a printing die. This invention laid the foundation for the future development of printed circuits, which began to be produced in larger quantities in the 1930s. During this time, terms such as "printed circuits" or the abbreviation "PCBs" emerged, becoming synonymous with modern printed circuit boards. Although the technology of the time had several drawbacks, such as low conductivity, these early attempts laid the groundwork for future developments.

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The First True PCBs: Paul Eisler and Copper Etching

In the 1930s, a technology was developed that allowed the creation of copper connections on an insulating substrate. In 1943, Paul Eisler patented the method of etching copper foil, which was used for the first mass-produced printed circuit boards. His groundbreaking invention found applications in radio manufacturing, where the PCB technology we recognize today was first introduced.

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The Development of Transistors and Integrated Circuits

With the arrival of transistors and the onset of miniaturization of electronic components in the 1950s, new technologies for connecting smaller and smaller components quickly emerged. As transistors and other components became smaller, there was a need to develop new methods for connecting them on the board.

In 1957, Jack Kilby from Texas Instruments introduced the first integrated circuit (IC), a breakthrough moment in electronics history. This transition to miniaturized circuits required new methods of connection—one key technology was the use of wire bonding and paste soldering into holes in the board. However, these methods were relatively challenging and not always efficient, especially with increasing component density.

The history of printed circuit boards is a fascinating journey from simple metal strips and wires to advanced multilayer and flexible circuits that power today’s technology.

From Charles Ducas’ early conductive printing in 1925 to Paul Eisler’s copper etching breakthrough in the 1940s, PCBs have continuously evolved alongside electronics.

Innovations like plated through-holes, surface mount technology (SMT), and microvias have enabled ever-smaller, more powerful devices. In former Czechoslovakia, PCB production began in the 1950s with Tesla Prelouc, eventually becoming a leader in the field.

Explore the full story of PCB development and its impact on modern electronics on our blog!

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