FLEX CIRCUIT TYPES FOR OPTIMAL INTERCONNECTION

 

Different types of flex circuits offer different advantages. Some offer lower cost, while others increase functionality. Learn more about the circuit types available for your application below. Please note that the IPC 6013 types have performance classifications 1,2,3. Class 3 being the most robust with the highest reliability.

Single-layer
Single layer flex circuit
IPC 6013 IPC 6013 - Type 1
conductive layer One conductive layer, either bonded between two insulating layers or uncovered on one side.
conductors Access holes to conductors may be on either one or both sides.
substrate Access holes on both sides of a single-layer are more expensive since the substrate must be drilled or laser defined separately.
Double-layer
Double layer flex circuits
IPC 6013 Type 2 IPC 6013 - Type 2
IPC 6013 Two conductive layers with an insulating layer between; outer layers may have cover-layers
or exposed pads.
plated through holes Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
IPC 6013 Access holes in cover-layers or exposed pads without cover-layers may be on either or both sides; vias can be covered on both sides.
Multi-Layer
Multi Layer Flex Circuits
IPC 6013 Type 3 IPC 6013 - Type 3
flexible conductive layers Three or more flexible conductive layers with flexible insulating layers between each one; outer layers may have cover-layers or exposed pads.
plated through holes Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
exposed pads Access holes in cover-layers or exposed pads without covers may be on either or both sides.
blind vias Vias can be through, blind or buried.
Rigid Flex
Rigid Flex Circuitry  
IPC 6013 Type 4 IPC 6013 - Type 4
flexible Two or more conductive layers with either flexible or rigid insulation material as insulators between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
rigid-flex Rigid-flex has conductors on the rigid layers, which differentiates it from multilayer circuits with stiffeners. Plated through-holes extend through both rigid and flexible layers.
interconnects Access holes in cover-layers or exposed pads on rigid features may be on either or both sides. Vias or interconnects can be fully covered for maximum insulation.
Multilayer, no plated through holes
Multi Layer, no plated through holes  
IPC 6013 Type 5 IPC 6013 - Type 5
conductive layers Two or more conductive layers with insulating layers between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
through holes Through-holes are not plated.
access holes Access holes or exposed pads without cover-layers may be on either or both sides.
 
Note: All of the above may have additional stiffeners applied with adhesive or PSA tape or shipped separately with a PSA tape to be applied after assembly.