Issue link: https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/i/1524390
Designing the Impossible: How Flex PCBs Revolutionized the Electronics Industry Long before the smartphone industry was revolutionized, flexible printed circuit boards (flex PCBs) were quietly making waves across various sectors. Originally developed in the 1950s for military and aerospace applications, these unsung heroes of electronics offered a solution to some of the most demanding technological needs – flexibility, light weight, and resilience. As the decades ticked by, these circuit boards became increasingly integral to advancing consumer electronics, medical technology, and even automotive systems. Their ability to bend, twist, and flex opened up new realms of design possibilities, making the once impossible now achievable. Then, in 2007, the release of the iPhone showcased flex PCBs' potential to a broader public. Featuring them in a compact, sleek device as envisioned by the visionary Steve Jobs, this marked a pivotal moment for the technology, highlighting its critical role in modern electronics design. The story of flex PCBs is about necessity driving invention. As the demands on electronic devices grew, engineers found themselves increasingly constrained by the rigid, traditional circuit boards. They needed to innovate, to push the boundaries of what was physically possible, and that's exactly what they did. In this comprehensive guide, you'll embark on a journey of discovery, exploring how flex PCBs have transformed industries, enabled new product categories, and changed the way we approach device design. Whether you're a seasoned PCB designer or a newcomer to the field, you'll find invaluable insights and step-by-step instruc- tions to leverage the full potential of this revolutionary technology. So, get ready to unlock the future of electronics. The path ahead may bend, twist, and flex, but with flex PCBs in your arsenal, the impossible is well within reach. 3D View of Cadence PCB from OrCAD X 3 www.cadence.com Rigid Flex Design Guide