sales@ipcb.com
What is a main pcb board?
A main pcb board is a printed circuit board that contains the basic components required for a device to function. It can be a large pcb for a computer or a control board for an appliance. Heavy pcbs are also used in industrial equipment.
In most applications, a circuit board is a flat insulating material, usually FR4, covered with a thin copper foil to form conductive interconnects, called traces. Traces connect the various electronic components together.
In terms of structure, it can be a single-layer board or a multi-layer board. It is also usually a replaceable pcb with removable connectors. Such connectors make replacement simpler.
What is the difference between a main pcb board and other circuit boards?
There are several points where a Main pcb differs from other pcbs. Functionally, the Main Board is the heart of any device or system. It performs all the basic operations, including processing data and executing commands.
Other circuit boards are connected to it and perform special functions to expand its tasks or enhance its capabilities. For example, they can be pcbs that add memory, process sound and graphics, and other smaller tasks.
Depending on the complexity of the application, the Main Board can be single-layer or multi-layer. Other pcbs connected to it are less complex and have fewer layers.
pcb vs main pcb board
To compare the differences between printed circuit boards and motherboards, we will look at the differences between the two in terms of functionality, components, size, scalability, cost, and uses or applications.
Functional Differences
The term pcb strictly refers to the bare circuit before assembly. It only has copper traces. It can only be used after components that enable power and signal transmission are installed. The components installed determine its functionality.
On the other hand, a motherboard is an assembled pcb. It gets its name because it is used as the core of an electronic system or gadget such as a personal computer. It also has well-defined functions, including data processing, information storage, and communication.
Component Diversity
There is a wide variety of components in an assembled pcb. They usually include ICs, transistors, diodes, capacitors, resistors, and inductors. These components mainly use conductive elements to transmit power and signals.
The components of a motherboard are more suitable for its application. They include data processing components such as a central processing unit (CPU) and memory modules such as RAM (random access memory).
Other major components include GPUs, hard drives, or SSD storage. It also contains I/O ports for connecting external devices. They include USB, Ethernet, VGA, audio jacks, and more.
Size and Form Factor
pcb sizes vary. They range from miniature types used for tiny electronics to large types that are over a meter long and designed for industrial applications.
pcb motherboards are usually larger in size and are the mainboards of computers or other information processing devices. In the electronics industry, computer motherboard sizes follow various form factors.
Size examples include ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) type, extended ATX, and micro-ATX or mini-ITX. These classifications determine compatibility when used with different computers.
Scalability
pcbs have specific uses and are usually not scalable. In contrast, motherboards are modular in design. It can be connected to other smaller boards to increase power and functionality or perform upgrades.
For example, it is a common practice to solder an audio or graphics board to a computer motherboard. Other options include communication boards that enhance information transmission and reception capabilities.
Cost Differences
pcbs cost less; it is just a substrate with copper traces. At this stage, the board is just a few steps away from being put into use. Mounting with electronic parts increases the production cost.
The mother pcb uses more complex components, making it more expensive. Depending on its size, its cost can be many times the price of a bare pcb. The cost depends on the number of parts and their complexity.
Applications
The bare pcb is not ready for use. After assembly, it can be used in many electronic systems, from consumer electronics to industrial equipment; the range of applications is almost endless.
In other words, the pcb forms the basis of any electronic device or system. For example, you can use it to run a motor, light and control the working of a light bulb, or connect the various parts of the power system.
The main pcb board has its purpose, which is to serve the role of the motherboard. It processes and stores data in a computer, laptop or tablet, connecting with external devices to improve functionality
What is the purpose of the main pcb board ?
The motherboard controls the operation of electronic devices and systems in many industries. Their different uses are distinguished only by the complexity of the application and the type of circuit board required. Here is a list of the most common uses.
Consumer Electronics
Every electronic product today has this type of pcb. These products include entertainment and communication products such as televisions, mobile phones and toys. You’ll also find it installed in automation equipment like coolers, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves, and timers.
Automotive Systems
The circuit board controls the vehicle infotainment system or those systems that provide comfort and convenience. More importantly, it operates key electronics that the car uses to improve efficiency or enhance safety. pcbs are also critical to emerging automotive technologies, such as electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles.
Medical Devices
In the medical field, pcbs are at the heart of diagnostic systems that enable doctors and other medical professionals to treat patients in medical facilities. They are also used in portable devices that patients can use to monitor their health, including in the comfort of their homes.
Industrial Equipment
pcbs are a key component in the automation field. It controls sensors, actuators, and other machine parts in manufacturing plants. This application extends to other industrial electronic equipment, including equipment for power generation and distribution, mining, and more.
Military and Aerospace
The reliability of space and defense systems depends on pcbs. In these industries, it handles fast sensing and real-time data transmission. It can also serve as an indoor or outdoor master pcb for harsh operating environments.
In summary, the main pcb board controls the overall functionality of an electronic device. Depending on the application, it can be a simple pcb with only a few components or a control board for a complex device. They are often replaceable when used in expensive equipment or appliances, allowing users to replace them when they fail without having to replace the entire product.