Why Green PCBs Are a Good Choice for Manual Inspection

Green PCBs produce a stark contrast against white text and traces, which enhances readability. Additionally, the green finish reduces glare, making it an essential choice for circuit boards that require manual inspection.

Neurologists and psychologists have found that green is gentle on the eyes. It also allows inspectors to see all the traces and pads easily. Moreover, line workers are accustomed to the green color and can scan it faster than other colors.

It is a standard

Although Printed Circuit Boards can be made in many colors, the majority of them are green. This is because the solder mask on the outside of the PCB is usually green. It protects the copper traces from oxidation and moisture, regulates molten solder flux, and prevents solder bridges between IC pins. The solder mask can be any color, but green is preferred for its excellent properties.

The color green is also good for the eyes of the assemblers who inspect the boards. It reduces visual fatigue and helps them find flaws more quickly. Psychologists and neurologists agree that the spectrum of green light has a soothing effect on the body, and may relieve eye strain.

The reason for the standard green of a circuit board is that it was adopted by the military after extensive testing and field work. Moreover, the etching process for green solder mask requires a lower exposure rate than other colors, making it less expensive and more durable.

It is gentle on the eyes

The color of the PCB solder mask is an important part of its appearance. It protects the copper circuitry from oxidation and moisture, while also shielding components from short circuits. It is commonly lacquered green and there are many reasons why this is the case.

The primary reason why most PCBs are green is because it is gentle on the eyes of assemblers. Unlike other colors, such as red or yellow, it does not glare under bright lights. This makes it easier to detect defects and debris.

While other PCB colors are available, it is best to stick with the standard green color. This is because the algorithms used by automated inspection machines are optimized for this color. In addition, it is less expensive than other colors. Moreover, it is easy to see under the strong light of AOI machines. This is especially useful in spotting flaws like broken wires or residual copper. This way, the assemblers don’t have to break down the entire board to find the problem.

It is less expensive than other colors

The green PCB is less expensive than other colors because it is a standard color and the manufacturers are accustomed to it. This is probably because the original glass epoxy used to make the solder mask had a natural green tint and was widely available. It is also a good choice for manufacturing because it provides clear contrast between planes, blank areas and traces.

While it’s true that other colors can be used, most manufacturers choose to stick with green because it is easy on the eyes of the assemblers. This is important because squinting all day while inspecting the boards for faults can cause fatigue. The best way to avoid this is by using a color that’s easy on the eyes and looks professional.

Printed circuit boards can be made in many different colors, including deep-sea blue, Ferrari red, sunshine yellow, and even matte beige. However, the most popular color for a PCB is still green. Various factors contribute to this, but the most likely reason is that it’s easier to spot problems on a green board than any other color.

It is a military standard

There are a few logical reasons why green is the standard color for circuit boards. First, it is easy on the eyes. It is also cheaper than other colors. Moreover, it allows inspectors to easily identify the traces and components on a circuit board.

The military studied PCBs extensively and found that green is the best color for them. They have since become the norm for pcb manufacturers and designers. They even use them in non-military applications.

The green solder mask helps to protect copper traces from damage during the manufacturing process. It is made from a glass epoxy that has a natural green tint. It became the standard color because it is available at a much cheaper price than other materials. In addition, the green color provides greater contrast between copper traces, silkscreen printing, and pads. This makes it easier for automated inspections to detect defects in the pcb. Psychologists and neurologists have also found that the spectrum of green has a soothing effect on the human eye. This relieves visual fatigue, allowing workers to work longer read more.