How Non-U.S. Companies Can Qualify for U.S. Projects Under the Build America Buy America (BABA) Act

As global supply chains evolve and infrastructure spending surges in the United States, the Build America Buy America (BABA) Act of 2021 has emerged as a key piece of legislation with wide-reaching implications for government-funded projects. For non-U.S. companies eyeing opportunities in American infrastructure and manufacturing, understanding this act—and aligning with a U.S.-based partner like...

Rigid vs. Flexible PCBs: Which Is Right for Your Product?

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) come in many forms, but two of the most widely used types are rigid and flexible PCBs. Choosing the right PCB type for your application can impact everything from performance and durability to cost and manufacturability.   At SVTronics, we assist clients in navigating their choices by understanding the strengths and trade-offs of...

The Full Lifecycle of a Printed Circuit Board: From Design to Assembly

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the backbone of nearly every electronic device we rely on today, from smartphones and smartwatches to medical devices and aerospace equipment. But many people don’t see the intricate and highly coordinated process it takes to bring a PCB from initial concept to a fully assembled, functioning product.  At SVTronics, we specialize...

PCB Assembly Methods: Through-Hole vs. Surface-Mount Technology (SMT)

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are foundational to modern electronics, but how components are mounted onto these boards can vary depending on design, application, and performance needs. Two primary PCB assembly methods dominate the electronics manufacturing: Through-Hole Technology (THT) and Surface-Mount Technology (SMT). Each offers unique benefits and considerations. In this article, we’ll break down the...

what is pcb

What Is a PCB and How Does It Work?

In today’s digital world, nearly every electronic device—from smartphones and laptops to medical equipment and vehicles—relies on a component that often goes unnoticed: the printed circuit board, or PCB. But what is a printed circuit board, and how does it work? At SVTronics, understanding how PCBs function is essential to appreciating the complexity and importance of...

Lead Solder vs. Lead-Free Solder in PCB Manufacturing

Solder is the glue that holds a PCB together, and without it, there would be no connections between PCB components. But there is much more to solder than heating it up and spreading it around. The key to a successful PCB project is understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the two most common solder types...

pcb-board

A Guide to PCB Corrosion

Corrosion on printed circuit boards (PCBs) is a major problem, leading to malfunctioning and component damage. Knowing what causes corrosion, how to identify it, and steps for prevention can help avoid costly repairs and ensure long-term board performance. With proper preventive measures and reputable PCB manufacturers, you can extend the life of your board and...

pcb-surface

What Are the Different Types of PCB Surface Finishes?

A final step in the PCB fabrication process, the decision to use a specific finish type is often driven by cost, electrical properties, durability, and other factors. Common PCB finishes include HASL (hot air solder leveling), OSP (organic solderability preservatives), and ENIG (electroless nickel immersion gold). When selecting a surface finish, it’s essential to consider...

pcb-board

How to Prevent Solder Balls on PCB

You must take precautionary measures before, during, and after production to prevent solder balls in printed circuit boards. Solder balls on PCB components are a recipe for disaster, so understanding the primary underlying causes and how to avoid them is vital. But you can prevent the formation of solder balls with the right tools, techniques,...

What Are the Different PCB Heat Dissipation Techniques?

Most PCB designs can't handle operating temperatures above 80°C. After this temperature, the board material becomes fragile and prone to breakage. A careful study of PCB heat dissipation techniques can help designers ensure that their PCBs can safely operate at higher temperatures without compromising reliability.