We designed this 2-sided PCB PCBA specifically for printer connectivity applications, integrating Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) technology and IC programming capabilities.
Built for seamless communication across printer systems, this 1.6mm FR4 PCB suits everything from home printers to industrial machines. It offers strong mechanical support and stable electrical performance, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.
We optimized the PCBA’s 2-sided architecture for efficient signal routing and seamless component integration.
- Layer Structure: The double-sided FR4 PCB (Tg130°C) supports mixed assembly, with SMT components (such as MCUs and driver ICs) placed on the top layer and THT components (including power connectors and FPC sockets) on the bottom layer. The 1OZ (35μm) copper thickness ensures stable current transmission, handling up to 3A for power-hungry components.
- FPC Integration: Equipped with 0.5mm pitch FFC/FPC connectors (e.g., JAE LY series), the PCBA supports 50-100-pin interfaces with a bend radius of ≥5mm, capable of withstanding over 10,000 flex cycles. Flexibility enables reliable wiring for moving printer parts in limited space.
- IC Programming: Featuring in-system programming (ISP) and JTAG/SWD debug interfaces, the PCBA allows for pre-flashing of firmware, including print control algorithms and communication protocols. Supports USB updates and MCU compatibility for custom printer functions.
The PCBA undergoes a meticulous assembly process to ensure precision and reliability:
Print Paste and SPI:
Use lead-free SAC305 solder paste with a 0.12mm laser-cut stencil. 3D SPI ensures paste volume accuracy within 5%, preventing shorts on fine-pitch ICs (0.5mm pitch).
Pick & Place and Reflow:
High-precision pick-and-place (±25μm) places 0402 components. Nitrogen reflow at 255°C reduces oxidation and ensures reliable solder joints.
AOI and THT:
Automated Optical Inspection detects misalignment and polarity errors before wave soldering THT parts at 250°C. Joints pass a 3N pull force test.
Functional Testing and Compliance:
Electrical tests check signal integrity (≥10Mbps), power ripple (≤50mV), and protocol compatibility (USB 2.0, UART).
X-ray scans BGA ICs to keep voids below 10%.
Environmental tests include 300 thermal cycles (-20°C to 60°C) and 96 hours damp heat (40°C/93% RH).
- Home Printers: Ideal for inkjet and laser printer mainboards, the PCBA enables high-speed data transfer for image processing and precise printhead positioning via FPC connections.
- Industrial Label Printers: Designed to withstand vibrations on production lines, it supports barcode and QR code generation through custom IC programming, ensuring accurate and consistent label printing.
- Thermal Printers: Used in POS systems and medical devices, it supports USB/serial communication protocols. Pre-programmed ICs streamline integration, reducing development time for customers.
- One-Stop Solution: Offering comprehensive services from PCB fabrication (minimum line/space: 100μm), component sourcing (authorized distributors for TI, ST, Murata), SMT/THT assembly, IC programming, to functional testing.
- FPC Customization: Tailors FPCs to specific requirements, including thickness (0.1-0.3mm), impedance matching (50Ω/75Ω), shielding layers (aluminum/copper foil), and surface finishes (gold/nickel plating).
- Rapid Response: Standard lead time of 4-5 weeks; FAI (First Article Inspection) reports and full material traceability (RoHS/REACH compliant) are provided. Small-batch trials (100-500 units) can be expedited within 2 weeks.
Custom 2-sided PCBA with FPC and IC programming for stable, flexible printer connectivity. Whether for consumer or industrial applications, it sets a standard for connectivity, flexibility, and reliability in printing technology.
