What Are the Key Benefits of Using TU-768 PCBs?

The rapid advancement of technology demands that electronic components not only perform efficiently but also withstand a variety of environmental stresses. TUC's TU-768 and TU-768P laminates and prepregs are at the forefront of this innovation, designed to meet the rigorous requirements of modern electronics.

The TU-768 PCB is crafted from high-quality woven E-glass, encapsulated in a specialized epoxy resin system. This combination yields laminates that are not only robust but also provide essential features such as UV-blocking capabilities and compatibility with Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) processes. These attributes make the TU-768 ideal for applications requiring durability in the face of demanding thermal cycles and extensive assembly work.

The Importance of Material Selection in PCBs

Choosing the right laminate is critical in PCB design and manufacturing. The laminate serves as the backbone of the PCB, influencing its mechanical strength, thermal performance, and electrical properties. In high-performance applications, materials must offer reliable performance under extreme conditions—attributes that the TU-768 excels in.

Exceptional Properties of TU-768

1. Thermal Properties

- Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): With a Tg of 180°C, TU-768 laminates can withstand high-temperature soldering processes without losing structural integrity. This characteristic is crucial for lead-free manufacturing processes, which often involve elevated temperatures.

- Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE): The TU-768 material exhibits an excellent CTE of 11-15 ppm/°C in both X and Y axes. This low expansion rate minimizes stress on solder joints during thermal cycling, enhancing reliability in applications subjected to temperature fluctuations.

2. Chemical Resistance

The TU-768 PCB showcases superior chemical resistance, making it suitable for environments where exposure to harsh chemicals is a concern. Its anti-CAF (Conductive Anodic Filament) property further enhances its reliability, preventing failures in humid and corrosive conditions.

3. Moisture Resistance and Flammability

With a moisture absorption rate of only 0.18%, TU-768 PCBs are designed to perform well even in humid environments. Additionally, they meet UL94-V0 flammability standards, ensuring safety in applications where fire resistance is critical.

4. Electrical Properties

- Dielectric Constant (DK): The TU-768 PCB offers a DK of 4.3 at both 5 GHz and 10 GHz, with slightly higher values at lower frequencies. This consistent dielectric performance supports high-frequency applications, making it suitable for modern communication devices.

- Loss Tangent (Df): With a Df of 0.023 at 10 GHz, the TU-768 minimizes signal loss, ensuring efficient transmission of electrical signals. This property is vital for high-speed digital circuits and RF applications.

5. Compatibility with AOI

The TU-768's fluorescence under UV light allows for easy detection during automated optical inspection processes. This feature not only enhances quality assurance but also reduces manufacturing errors, thereby increasing overall productivity.

Stack-Up Configuration

- Copper Layer 1: 35 μm

- TU-768 Core Thickness: 1.5 mm (60 mil)

- Copper Layer 2: 35 μm

Construction Details

- Board Dimensions: 110mm x 197mm, ± 0.15mm

- Minimum Trace/Space: 4/4 mils

- Minimum Hole Size: 0.3mm

- Finished Board Thickness: 1.6mm

- Finished Copper Weight: 1 oz (1.4 mils) for outer layers

- Via Plating Thickness: 20 μm

- Surface Finish: Hot Air Soldering Level (HASL)

- Solder Mask: Green for both top and bottom layers

- Silkscreen: White on the top layer; none on the bottom layer

- Quality Assurance: 100% electrical testing performed before shipment to ensure reliability.

Quality Standards and Artwork

The PCB adheres to IPC-Class-2 standards, ensuring compliance with industry benchmarks for quality and reliability. The artwork is supplied in Gerber RS-274-X format, facilitating seamless integration into existing design workflows.

Global Availability and Versatile Applications

The TU-768 PCB is available worldwide, catering to diverse markets and industries. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide array of applications, including:

1. Consumer Electronics

From smartphones to tablets, the TU-768 is an ideal choice for consumer electronics that demand high performance, reliability, and durability.

2. Servers and Workstations

In data centers where performance is crucial, TU-768 laminates ensure that server and workstation PCBs can handle intensive workloads while maintaining thermal stability.

3. Automotive Applications

With increasing electronic content in vehicles, the TU-768's resistance to harsh conditions makes it suitable for automotive applications, including control systems and infotainment devices.

Conclusion

TUC’s TU-768 laminate represents a significant advancement in PCB material technology. Its exceptional thermal and chemical properties, along with robust electrical performance, make it a reliable choice for a variety of high-demand applications.