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In its simplest form, a flexible circuit is a vast cumulation of conductors bonded to a thin dielectric, or insulating, film.
Silver or copper may be used as an electric conductor. In a Copper Flex Circuit, a very thin sheet of copper is first laminated to the flexible film substrate then chemically etched away, leaving copper traces. The etching process is not as environmentally friendly and more expensive than screen-printing silver traces.
Copper Flex Circuit options include:
- Single & Double Sided
- Polyimide or Polyester
- Tin, Nickel, Gold Plating
Comparison Chart |
Characteristic |
Silver Ink |
Copper |
Printing vs. Etching |
Electric conductors are screen-printed onto the film substrate. |
Copper is chemically etched away, leaving conductive traces. More expensive than screen-printing. |
Pliability/Weight |
Silver traces are lightweight and more flexible than solid copper traces. |
Solid copper traces are heavier and more durable than softer printed silver traces. |
Conductivity |
Resistivity approx 50 mOhms/sq
1mm x 80 mm trace = 4 Ohms
0.5mm x 80mm trace = 8 Ohms |
High |
Price |
Low to Moderate |
Expensive to very expensive |
Soldering |
No |
Yes |
Pitch |
Thin |
Possible pitch 0.5mm and 0.3mm for ZIF connector |
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