{"id":155,"date":"2020-04-28T20:55:00","date_gmt":"2020-04-28T20:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntron.com\/news\/?p=155"},"modified":"2021-01-12T11:43:10","modified_gmt":"2021-01-12T19:43:10","slug":"repair-not-repair-pcbs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/huntron.com\/news\/repair-not-repair-pcbs\/","title":{"rendered":"To Repair or Not to Repair Your PCBs? That Is the Question"},"content":{"rendered":"\n


\n3 MIN. READ<\/strong>
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Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the heart of all electronic devices. PCBs are easy to manufacture in mass quantities and can pack a lot of electronic functionality into a compact space. Their space efficiency is achieved by their three-dimensional structure of multiple layers of conductive traces that connect electronic components and insulating material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When PCBs malfunction, you are faced with the choice of PCB repair, replacing the PCB or disposing of the entire electronic device. For some low-cost electronic devices, the best option is to replace the device. However, for expensive or custom-built devices, this may not be an option and you may be limited to PCB repair or replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Replacing PCBs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The main benefit of replacing a PCB, particularly if it is an OEM part, is that it will restore the function of your electronic device to its original specifications. For safety equipment, medical devices and avionics, replacing PCBs may be the only way to meet industry standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, replacing a PCB can be costly and can result in extended downtime if the PCB is not immediately available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PCB Repair<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"testing<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The main benefit of repairing a PCB is that repair can often be accomplished faster than replacement, depending on the level of damage. Moreover, repair is often less expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, damage caused by overheating, referred to as a “thermal cycle,” can delaminate boards, weaken solder joints and damage components. Even after repair, thermal cycles substantially shorten the life of a PCB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to make a decision<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When deciding whether to repair or replace PCBs, consider these factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n