Rigid flex circuit – flexibility and rigidity, all in one

Rigid flex circuits comprise an assembly of electric components mounted on both the sides of the board and are ideal for designs that are intended to work in space constraints. The board architecture results in improved impedance control and saves any requirement of multiple rigid-flex board arrangement. With localized flexion possibility, rigid flex circuit boards work particularly well for devices that are designed to be used in static applications while specific areas are meant for folding.

These hybrid circuits can work with up to sixteen layers, and replace bulky and clumsy wire harness with compact and robust Surface Mount Component assembly. Rigid flex circuits are most useful in cases of designs that comprise multiple circuit layers and intended to undergo several bending cycles.

In addition to surface mounting, rigid flex circuits also come with the provision of through-hole connection of electrical components in areas where flexion is not required. With such a range of possibilities available, no wonder rigid flex circuits have already become popular amongst equipment manufacturers.