What is the difference between rigid PCB and flex PCB?

The main difference between rigid PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) and flex PCBs is the flexibility of the substrate material used. Rigid PCBs are made from a solid, inflexible substrate material, while flex PCBs are made from a thin, flexible substrate material.

Here are some of the key differences between rigid and flex PCBs:

1. Flexibility: The main difference between rigid PCBs and flex PCBs is their flexibility. Rigid PCBs are stiff and inflexible, while flex PCBs are designed to be flexible, allowing them to be bent or folded to fit into tight spaces.

2. Substrate Material: Rigid PCBs are typically made from fiberglass-reinforced epoxy resin or other high-strength laminates. Flex PCBs, on the other hand, are made from a flexible substrate material such as polyimide or polyester film.

3. Number of Layers: Rigid PCBs are available in a variety of layer counts, from single-layer to multi-layer, while flex PCBs are typically limited to single or double layers due to the flexible nature of the substrate material.

4. Manufacturing Complexity: Flex PCBs are generally more complex to manufacture than rigid PCBs due to the need to create flexible circuits that can withstand repeated bending and folding.

5. Cost: Flex PCBs are generally more expensive to manufacture than rigid PCBs due to the complexity of the manufacturing process and the cost of the flexible substrate material.

Overall, the choice between a rigid PCB and a flex PCB depends on the specific application requirements. Rigid PCBs are generally preferred for applications that require stability and high component density, while flex PCBs are ideal for applications that require flexibility and the ability to fit into tight spaces.