Flexible printed circuit boards come with numerous advantages over a rigid PCB. This has made them common in consumer electronics, yet comes with some drawbacks. As a result, rigid and Flexible printed circuit boards both have their place, and are often used in conjunction with each other in rigid-flex circuits.
Advantages
- Flexibility allows for extended uses among a variety of products across industries
- Less risk of wire connection failure increases overall reliability
- Reduction in size and weight compared to rigid boards
- Good temperature range makes Flexible printed circuit boards suitable for harsher environments
- High Circuit Density
Disadvantages
- Higher materials cost than rigid printed circuit boards
- Complex assembly process
- Sensitive to scratching and damage when unprotected
- Requires correct storage procedures
- Difficult to repair