Circuit boards and their components are the backbones of all electronic devices. These allow the passage of electric currents and the transmission of signals. From laptops to smartphones, these small assemblies of multiple components form the basis of electronic functionality. To ensure the proper functioning and output of electronic devices, it is necessary to know the various types of circuit boards and their respective components to determine if they are suitable for your equipment.

Printed circuit boards
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are thin boards made of non-conductive material, such as fiberglass, with electronic components attached. The board acts as a base for the components while providing a mechanism for connecting the components to form a functional electronic circuit.

PCB components
PCB components are individual parts of the board that make up the complete circuit board. Each component has its set of functions as a part of the circuit, making it possible for the current to pass through the circuit when all the components work in combination. Some integral components of printed circuit boards are listed below.

Resistors
Resistors help in the transport of electric current to produce voltage. Resistors are color-coded to help identify their resistance values.

Transistors
Transistors are amplifiers that allow control over the electronic signal or help switch the current. Different variations of transistors are used in circuit boards.

Capacitors
After resistors, capacitors are the most common component in a circuit board. Capacitors store an electrical charge and only release it into the board when more power is needed.

Inductors
Similar to capacitors, inductors store power in the form of a magnetic field. They help block interfering signals from other devices and equipment.

Diodes
Diode allows current to flow in just one direction. Diodes are essential to avoid damage caused to the board and the device. The most well-known diodes are zener diodes and light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

Types of circuit boards

Single-sided PCBs
There are multiple types of circuit boards, and each one has its own unique features and functionality. One of the most common types of circuit boards is a single-layer PCB. It has all its components on one side of the board with copper traces on the other side. Single-sided PCBs are also the most affordable option.

Double-sided PCBs
The double-layer PCB circuits have components on both sides connected by vias (holes) on the board that penetrate the other side. Double-sided PCBs have more circuit density and are more complex than single-sided PCBs.

Multi-layered PCBs
As the name suggests, multi-layer PCB boards have more than two layers. These are used for complex circuits with numerous components. The layers of conductive material and insulation that are sandwiched together prove useful for higher circuit density and complex designing.

Flexible circuit boards
Also known as flex PCBs, these circuit boards are made from a flexible plastic substrate. Their plastic material allows the board to twist and bend in different directions. Flex PCB boards are commonly used where the board needs to conform to a shape or contour.

PCB manufacturers
Numerous PCB manufacturers, from small businesses to multinational companies, create PCBs in varying shapes and sizes. Selecting the right PCB manufacturer is as important as the assembly and presence of PCB components. Some of the prominent manufacturers of circuit boards include-

Samsung Electro-Mechanics
A subsidiary of Samsung Group, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is among the largest PCB manufacturers in the world. The company manufactures various PCBs with applications in multiple consumer electronics like phones and tablets.

NexLogic Technologies
NexLogic Technologies is another prominent manufacturer of PCB solutions. The company offers a wide range of inorganic and organic package designs, wearable PCBs, and cost-effective PCB prototyping for clients.

RedBoard Circuits
RedBoard Circuits concentrates on PCB prototyping and production. Their production line includes single-layered circuit boards, metal core PCBs, flexible PCBs, multi-layered PCBs, and more.

Advanced Circuitry International (ACI)
One of the leading manufacturers of PCBs in the country, ACI predominantly focuses on large-format multi-layer PCBs and offers PCB prototyping and assembly services.