Myths to Ignore About Flexible Circuits

Myths to Ignore About Flexible Circuits

Many people are under impression that flex circuits are a new type of technology. This couldn’t be further from the truth! The idea behind flex circuits was first birthed more than a century ago. And while flex circuits have certainly come a long way since then, they’re not new by any stretch of the imagination. They’ve actually been produced in large volumes for more than 50 years now. Here are some other common myths associated with flex circuits.

Myth 1: Flex circuits are more expensive than rigid circuit boards.

If you compare the price of one single flex circuit to one single rigid circuit board, you’ll likely find that the single rigid circuit board will be cheaper. But if you factor in a bunch of other aspects, you’ll see why flex circuits are considered to be the more affordable option. For example, when you utilize flex circuits, you usually won’t need to use as many connectors and wire harnesses. That alone will save you money when it comes to both materials and labor. It’s important to consider things like this before automatically assuming flex circuits are more expensive than rigid circuit boards.

Myth 2: Flex circuits aren’t as durable as rigid circuit boards.

Because rigid circuit boards are, well, rigid, most people believe they’re more durable than flex circuits. But as long as a flex circuit is designed properly, it should last for just as long as a rigid circuit board does. There is some additional strain put on flex circuits that are made to fit in tight spaces. But again, as long as a flex circuit is designed to withstand that additional stress, it’ll prove to be every bit as durable as a rigid circuit board.

Myth 3: Flex circuits aren’t flame retardant like most rigid circuit boards.

If you need a flame-retardant circuit board for a piece of equipment, you might think rigid circuit boards are the right choice. However, flex circuits can also be designed to meet UL and CSA flame retardant rating standards when coated in flame retardant substrates. These flex circuits will be just as safe to use in tough conditions as any rigid circuit boards.

Those are just a few of the many benefits of flex circuits, as opposed to untrue myths. Call us at 915-591-6300 to learn more about flex circuits and how they work.

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