How Do Circuit Boards Work: Electronics Beyond Earth
Circuit Boards
Electrical circuit boards, also known as printed circuit boards (PCBs), provide the platform that connects electronic components and allows them to perform specific functions. They are vital to the operation of your electronic devices, from smartphones and tablets to computers and digital cameras.
A circuit board is essentially a flat piece of non-conductive material such as fibreglass or plastic with thin conductive pathways etched on it. These conductive pathways, called traces, act as the highways for electrical signals to travel between the different components on the board. By meticulously designing the layout and connections, engineers are able to create circuits that execute specific functions.
Among the most important components of an electrical circuit board are transistors, resistors and capacitors. Transistors, which are small chips, function by trapping and dissipating electric current to produce voltage, while resistors regulate the flow of current and capacitors store and release electrical energy. All of these work together to ensure the smooth functioning of the other components on the circuit board, which then powers your electronics.
How Do Circuit Boards Work: Electronics Beyond Earth
The process of creating a circuit board begins with the creation of a schematic diagram, which is essentially a blueprint for how the components will be connected. Once this is done, the individual component leads are soldered to their respective traces on the board. This can be done manually for prototyping and small-scale production, or it can be automated using a machine known as a pick-and-place robot.
Once all of the components are in place, the board is subjected to rigorous testing to ensure that it works as intended. Some of the tests include checking that the traces can carry current without overheating, which could damage the circuit and cause it to malfunction. It is also essential that the traces are of the proper width to prevent impedance mismatches, which can interfere with signal performance.
Finally, the circuit board must be made of a material that is rigid and durable enough to support the components. The most common choice is a type of fibreglass called FR4, which is highly resistant to corrosion and heat. Various other types of materials are also used, depending on the specific needs of the circuit board.
How Do Circuit Boards Work: Electronics Beyond Earth is a fascinating exploration of the inner workings of your favourite electronics, from computers to phones. By bringing to life the complex networks that make them operate, this podcast illuminates how our gadgets are able to communicate with one another and deliver the results we expect.
The next time you use your electronic devices, give yourself a pat on the back for supporting the hardworking technology of our age. Without the help of these amazing little machines, our modern world would be a lot less efficient and a whole lot less connected.