Common Issues Faced When Ordering Rigid-Flex or Flex Circuits Online

Ordering rigid-flex or flex circuits online can sometimes lead to technical issues and delays in quick turn orders if the design data is incomplete. These issues can stem from manufacturing errors or improper end use of the parts. Resolving these technical issues often involves communication and design revisions, which can push back the delivery date of the products.

How to Avoid Delays in Quick Turn Delivery?

The key to avoiding delays in quick turn delivery lies in addressing common issues that may arise during the ordering process. By understanding and mitigating these issues, you can expedite the assembly and delivery of your product.

1. Submitting Complete Data Sets

One of the primary causes of delays in quick turn delivery is submitting incomplete data sets. Ensure that your data includes all necessary Gerber files, mechanical drawings, spec sheets with required specifications, and a detailed material stack up. Verify the accuracy and completeness of the data you provide to avoid setbacks.

2. Checking Bend Requirements

Another common mistake is neglecting to consider mechanical bend requirements in the design phase. Incorrectly specified bend requirements can exceed the material’s capabilities, leading to performance issues. Provide a clear overview of how the part will be used and the location/radius of bends to ensure optimal performance.

3. Addressing Design Issues

Adhering to IPC 2223 flex circuit design standards is crucial for ensuring the performance of your finished product. Familiarize yourself with key design rules to optimize circuit design and functionality.

Design Considerations:

• Areas without Component Support: Utilize stiffeners to reinforce component areas and prevent bending that could compromise solder joints.
• Component Area Bend Requirements: Avoid bends in component areas to prevent solder joint breakage.
• Vias/PTH Holes in Flex Areas: Minimize vias/PTH holes in flex areas to prevent mechanical stress and potential cracks during bending.
• 90-Degree Trace Corners: Use radiused corners instead of 90-degree trace corners in flex areas to reduce mechanical stress and avoid cracks or breakage.

Specifications Regarding ZIF Connector:

Key Considerations for ZIF Connector Design

When preparing your Gerber data for ZIF connectors, it is crucial to accurately define the contact details. This involves specifying contact finger positions, dimensions, spacing, part outline measurements, coverlay openings, and stiffener specifications. These factors play a vital role in ensuring a secure interconnection between your flexible circuit and the ZIF connector. Additionally, providing the part number and manufacturer details is essential for verification purposes.

Additional Design Guidelines:

There are some supplementary design requirements that are not commonly used but are highly recommended:

• Stiffener placement and dimensions
• Choice of materials such as polyimide or FR4, along with thickness and positioning
• Utilization of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives within the assembly
• Part number, positioning, and specifications for reflow assembly
• EMI/RF shield layers, single or double-sided, ground interconnect positions, etc.

Prior to finalizing your data and specifications, it is crucial to review the design rules associated with these components. Keeping your design simple and easy to manufacture can help reduce the likelihood of errors. It is also advisable to collaborate with your engineer to ensure the accuracy of the final design.

Ensuring Timely Order Fulfillment

To prevent any technical complications and avoid delays in quick turn orders, it is imperative to furnish a precise and comprehensive dataset. By doing so, you can minimize errors and increase the likelihood of timely completion for your design project.