PCB Fabrication
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication is the process of manufacturing printed circuit boards, which are essential components in electronic devices that mechanically support and electrically connect electronic components using conductive tracks, pads, and other features etched from copper sheets laminated onto a non-conductive substrate. It involves steps like design, printing, etching, drilling, and assembly to create functional boards for electronics. This process is critical in hardware development, enabling the physical realization of circuit designs.
Developers should learn PCB fabrication when working on embedded systems, IoT devices, robotics, or any hardware projects that require custom circuit boards, as it allows for prototyping, testing, and production of tailored electronic solutions. It's essential for reducing reliance on pre-made boards, optimizing performance, and ensuring design integrity in applications like consumer electronics, industrial automation, or research prototypes. Knowledge of this process helps in debugging hardware issues and collaborating effectively with manufacturing teams.