What are the Difference Between PCBA and PCB?

PCBA VS PCB

The main difference between PCBA and PCB is that PCB refers to a blank circuit board, while PCBA refers to a circuit board that contains all the necessary electronic components as required. A PCB is not yet functional because it does not have the required components, however, a PCBA is a fully functional board. PCB and PCBA are two different parts of the same process, the PCBA builds based on an existing PCB. Learn more

PCB

► What's PCB

PCBs are the foundation of modern electronic devices. They mechanically support and electrically connect electronic components. The boards themselves are made of laminate material, such as fiberglass or composite epoxy, and contain conductive pathways that connect different parts of the board. These pathways are printed or inscribed onto the board according to the predetermined PCB design.

The main types of PCBs include single-layer PCBs, double-layer PCBs, multi-layer PCBs, flexible PCBs, rigid PCB and flex-rigid PCBs.

►Applications of PCB

PCBs are used in a wide range of electronic equipment, including mobile devices, TVs, radios, appliances, medical imaging systems, engine management systems, industrial controls, telecom towers, data storage equipment, heavy machinery, robotics, vehicle components and etc..

PCBA

►What's PCBA

PCBA is a completed Printed Circuit Board Assembly that contains all of the electronic components needed to make the board function as required. PCBA may also refer to the process of assembling the board with the necessary components.

►Methods of PCBA

• Surface-Mount Technology
Surface Mount Technology, or SMT for short, is an assembly process that involves mounting electronic components to the surface of a PCB. It is highly automated and flexible, and allows for higher connection densities. It enables manufacturers to pack complex circuits into small components.

 
• Thru-Hole Technology
Through-hole technology is an assembly process that involves drilling holes in a PCB through which electronic components called leads can be attached. It's an older technology than SMT, but creates a stronger connection between the board and the components, resulting in a more durable and reliable assembly. Thru-hole assembly can be either fully automated or semi-automated.

Difference Between PCBA and PCB

PCB and PCBA are the results of two different steps of the same overall process. A PCB is a blank circuit board with no electronic components attached, while PCBA is a completed assembly that contains all of the components required for the board to function as needed for the desired application. A PCB is not yet functional, while a PCBA is ready to be used in an electronic device.

Another difference is the package of PCBs and PCBAs. PCBs are typically packaged with vacuum-packaging, while PCBAs need to use compartmental or anti-static packaging.

What We Can Do For You?

Minteda provides expert PCBA (PCB assembly) services, including board-level and completed box build assembly, SMT and thru-hole technology, and everything from fully automated processes to precise hand assembly. From orinigal factory in Shenzhen City, we serve global clients.

When you work with Minteda, you get our years professional experience, timely service and top quality products.