
Multiple FPC Giants Compete to Participate This New Application
2025-07-22
AI glasses are rapidly driving new demand in the wearable market. Major international companies like Meta and Apple are accelerating their product launches, and several startups in China are also entering the fray. The supply chain for AI glasses, including sensing and lens modules, is generating new momentum and benefiting HDI, flexible circuit board, rigid-flex board, and substrate manufacturers, making AI glasses a focal point in the wearable device sector.
Huatong currently focuses on mid to high-end HDI boards for AI glasses applications and is simultaneously developing flexible and rigid-flex boards, creating a complete product lineup. Although current shipments have not significantly contributed to revenue, growth is evident, and the company has entered stable mass production. Clients include several international brands like Meta, and many startups in China are actively developing AI glasses. The lightweight and compact nature of AI glasses increases the demand for high-end printed circuit boards, which is advantageous for the company to expand its share of high-end applications.
Zhen Ding is one of the earliest PCB manufacturers to enter the smart glasses field, now offering a complete product line that includes flexible boards, SiP modules, and rigid boards. Zhen Ding reports that its global market share for printed circuit boards used in smart glasses has reached 30-50%. Although this year's shipments have not peaked, the scale has grown several times compared to last year. With high technical barriers and premium pricing, the gross margin for this business is already above the company’s overall average and is expected to continue improving profitability.
Taiwan's Jeng Yi has been actively entering the wearable device market in recent years, and its new generation of products for AI glasses has completed mass production introduction, with initial results gradually emerging. The company estimates that shipments will grow significantly in 2026, further boosting operational momentum.
In upstream materials, PI manufacturer Damao is targeting Meta glasses with transparent PI. Damao provides films, while its subsidiary Bo Mi Lan specializes in fine circuits, enabling smart glasses to achieve eye-tracking functionality. The company plans to continue its strategic positioning in the AI glasses market.
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Source: Money DJ
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Why Are RO4003C PCBs More Popular Among Customers
2025-07-18
The rising popularity of RO4003C PCBs has become evident, particularly in high-frequency and performance-sensitive applications.
1. Superior Electrical Performance
Customers favor RO4003C PCBs primarily due to their outstanding electrical characteristics. With a dielectric constant (DK) of 3.38 +/- 0.05 at 10 GHz, these materials deliver exceptional signal integrity, which is critical for RF and microwave applications. The low dissipation factor (0.0027 at 10 GHz) further enhances performance by minimizing signal loss.
2. Cost-Effective Manufacturing
RO4003C materials can be processed similarly to traditional FR-4, resulting in reduced manufacturing costs without sacrificing quality. This cost-effectiveness makes them appealing for high-volume production, allowing customers to stay within budget while achieving high performance.
3. Excellent Thermal Stability
The thermal coefficient of expansion (CTE) of RO4003C closely matches that of copper, ensuring excellent dimensional stability. This characteristic helps mitigate issues related to thermal expansion, ensuring reliable performance even under varying temperature conditions. Additionally, the high glass transition temperature (Tg) of over 280°C supports reliability in demanding environments.
4. Versatility in Applications
RO4003C PCBs are highly versatile, suitable for a range of applications including:
Cellular base station antennas
RF identification tags
Automotive radar systems
LNBs for direct broadcast satellites
This adaptability makes them attractive to customers in various industries seeking dependable solutions.
5. Reduced Need for Special Handling
Unlike PTFE-based materials, RO4003C does not require special through-hole treatments or handling procedures. This ease of use simplifies the manufacturing process and minimizes the risk of errors, making them a preferred choice for designers.
6. Low Moisture Absorption
With a moisture absorption rate of just 0.06%, RO4003C PCBs are less susceptible to degradation in humid environments. This feature enhances their reliability and longevity, making them suitable for outdoor and harsh conditions.
7. Compliance with Industry Standards
RO4003C PCBs typically adhere to IPC-Class-2 standards, ensuring they meet quality and reliability benchmarks. This compliance builds trust among customers who prioritize dependable electronic components.
Conclusion
The growing popularity of RO4003C PCBs among customers can be attributed to their superior electrical performance, cost-effectiveness, excellent thermal stability, versatility, and reduced handling requirements. These attributes position them as an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, solidifying their status as a preferred option in the PCB market.
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U.S. Imposes 50% Tariff on Copper, Semiconductor Industry on High Alert
2025-07-18
The United States has decided to impose a 50% tariff on copper starting August 1, putting the global semiconductor industry on high alert. Copper is a key material for high-performance semiconductors, electric vehicles, and traditional industries such as wiring. The surge in copper prices is directly impacting the global semiconductor supply chain and manufacturing costs. Additional tariffs on semiconductors are expected to be introduced by the end of this month, escalating tensions.
Industry insiders revealed on the 13th that South Korea's domestic semiconductor industry is planning tariff policy solutions and countermeasures. Finished semiconductor chips will not be subject to tariffs, but critical components required for chip production (such as copper wire) will be included in the tariff scope. This is likely to indirectly lead to an increase in semiconductor manufacturing costs.
Semiconductor industry experts stated, “The U.S. tariff on copper does not directly affect semiconductors themselves, but it will lead to a sharp increase in the cost of key materials, which will have a practical impact on semiconductor manufacturing.” They added, “The impact will be greater for high-performance semiconductors that use large amounts of copper.”
Traditionally, copper is widely used in electric vehicles, batteries, and wiring, but it is also crucial in semiconductor packaging, substrate design, and high-speed data transmission lines. As demand for advanced AI chips and high-performance GPUs increases for finer and more complex wiring structures, the use of copper is rising.
This situation is equally unwelcome for the U.S. semiconductor industry. Companies like Intel and Micron, which are aggressively expanding production in the U.S., are facing unexpected “raw material inflation.” If the copper tariff is implemented, import prices will rise nearly 1.5 times.
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) expressed concern, stating, “Contrary to the intention of protecting domestic industries, domestic chip production costs may rise rapidly, weakening global competitiveness.”
The issue is that the tariff policy for finished semiconductors has yet to be introduced. President Trump stated during a cabinet meeting at the White House on the 8th that, “We will announce tariffs on certain products like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.” Although President Trump did not disclose specific tariff rates, announcement times, or implementation dates, Secretary of Commerce Howard Rutnik indicated after the cabinet meeting that the plan is to complete the investigation into semiconductors by the end of this month.
This tariff policy is interpreted as an attempt to ensure tax revenue and curb China's rise in the semiconductor industry, placing the entire semiconductor supply chain under the U.S.
The U.S. continues to pressure global semiconductor companies like TSMC, Samsung Electronics, and SK Hynix through tariff policies, demanding they establish production bases and invest in the U.S.
In particular, the U.S. domestic memory industry is expected to face pressure. Samsung Electronics is building a foundry in Taylor, Texas, while SK Hynix is preparing to establish a semiconductor packaging production base in Lafayette, Indiana. These two companies do not have memory production facilities in the U.S. If tariffs on semiconductors are imposed in the U.S., they will be able to establish memory production facilities.
However, some observers believe that imposing high tariffs on semiconductors in the U.S. is not an easy task. This is because countries and regions like South Korea and Taiwan dominate a large portion of the global semiconductor market, and excessive tariffs could actually drive up the prices of U.S. companies' products.
Senior researcher Kim Yang-pyeong from the Korea Industrial Research Institute cautiously predicts, “Given that Trump has mentioned semiconductors again, the likelihood of not imposing tariffs on semiconductors is high,” but also states, “The possibility of imposing high tariffs like those on copper is low.”
He analyzes, “For other products mentioned for tariffs, the U.S. has production or alternatives, but there are not many alternatives for semiconductors. Just like with iPhone tariffs, the U.S. cannot take forceful actions in areas that harm its own interests.”
Chips May Face Disruption from Copper Supply Issues
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) recently reported that by 2035, about 32% of global semiconductor production may be affected by climate change-related copper supply disruptions, a figure that is four times the current level.
Chile, the world's largest copper producer, is already dealing with water shortages, which is slowing copper production. PwC states that by 2035, most of the 17 countries supplying copper to the chip industry will face drought risks.
The last global chip shortage stemmed from a dual impact of pandemic-induced demand surges and factory shutdowns, which severely impacted the automotive industry and caused production lines in other chip-dependent industries to stall.
Glenn Borm, a project leader at PwC, cited U.S. Department of Commerce data, stating, “This led to a full 1% decline in U.S. GDP growth, while Germany experienced a 2.4% decline.”
PwC indicates that copper miners from countries such as China, Australia, Peru, Brazil, the U.S., the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mexico, Zambia, and Mongolia will also be affected, and all chip manufacturing regions globally cannot avoid this risk.
Copper is used to make billions of tiny wires in each chip circuit. Although research is ongoing into alternative materials, none can currently match copper in terms of price and performance.
PwC warns that if material innovations do not adapt to climate change, and affected countries fail to develop more stable water supply systems, this risk will continue to escalate over time.
The report states, “By 2050, about half of each country's copper supply will face risks—regardless of how quickly global carbon emissions are reduced.”
Chile and Peru have taken measures to secure water supplies, including improving mining efficiency and constructing desalination plants. PwC states that this approach is exemplary, but may not be a solution for countries unable to access large amounts of seawater.
PwC estimates that currently, 25% of Chile's copper production faces disruption risks, a figure that will rise to 75% within the next decade, reaching 90% to 100% by 2050.
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What Makes PTFE PCBs Ideal for Demanding Environments
2025-07-18
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) printed circuit boards (PCBs) have gained significant traction in the electronics industry, especially for high-frequency and microwave applications. Known for their unique properties, PTFE PCBs offer a range of advantages that make them an ideal choice for various demanding environments.
1. Low Dielectric Constant
One of the standout features of PTFE PCBs is their low dielectric constant, typically ranging from 2.1 to 2.2. This property significantly reduces signal loss, making PTFE an excellent choice for high-frequency applications. By minimizing signal degradation, designers can achieve better signal integrity, which is crucial in applications like telecommunications and data transmission.
2. Low Loss Tangent
In addition to a low dielectric constant, PTFE PCBs exhibit a low loss tangent, often less than 0.001. This characteristic ensures minimal energy loss during signal transmission, making PTFE ideal for RF and microwave circuits. The efficiency of signal propagation is essential for applications that require high precision and performance, such as radar systems and satellite communications.
3. High Thermal Stability
PTFE is known for its exceptional thermal stability, with a thermal degradation temperature exceeding 300°C. This property allows PTFE PCBs to maintain their performance in high-power applications without compromising reliability. As electronic devices become more powerful, the ability to withstand higher temperatures becomes increasingly important, especially in sectors like automotive and aerospace.
4. Excellent Chemical Resistance
Another significant advantage of PTFE is its resistance to a wide range of chemicals and environmental factors. This chemical inertness ensures durability and reliability in various applications, making PTFE PCBs suitable for harsh environments. Industries such as pharmaceuticals and chemical processing benefit greatly from this property, where equipment must withstand aggressive substances.
5. Good Mechanical Properties
PTFE PCBs offer a combination of mechanical strength and flexibility, making them suitable for applications that require bending or dynamic movement. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in compact electronic devices where space is limited, allowing for innovative designs without sacrificing performance.
6. Low Moisture Absorption
PTFE's low moisture absorption rate is crucial for maintaining stable electrical performance in varying humidity conditions. This property ensures that PTFE PCBs perform reliably in environments where moisture levels fluctuate, effectively reducing the risk of circuit failures.
7. Ease of Fabrication
Modern manufacturing techniques allow for the easy processing of PTFE, enabling the production of complex PCB designs and multilayer configurations. This ease of fabrication makes PTFE an attractive option for engineers looking to create intricate circuits that meet specific performance requirements.
8. High Frequency Performance
PTFE PCBs excel in high-frequency and microwave applications, maintaining their performance integrity even at elevated frequencies. This capability is vital for the development of advanced communication technologies, including 5G networks and IoT devices, where speed and efficiency are paramount.
9. Low Weight
The lightweight nature of PTFE is an additional advantage, particularly in aerospace and portable electronic devices where weight reduction is crucial. Using PTFE PCBs can contribute to overall weight savings in complex systems, enhancing the efficiency and functionality of devices.
Conclusion
The advantages of PTFE PCBs make them a preferred choice in various industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Their unique properties, such as low dielectric constant, low loss tangent, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, ensure high performance and reliability in demanding applications. As technology continues to evolve, the role of PTFE PCBs will likely expand, paving the way for innovative solutions in the ever-advancing field of electronics.
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Why Most Flexible PCBs Are Double-Sided, Not Multilayer
2025-07-18
Flexible printed circuits (FPCs) have transformed the landscape of electronics, enabling compact, lightweight, and highly efficient designs. While both double-sided and multilayer configurations exist, a significant majority of flexible PCBs are double-sided. Here’s an exploration of the reasons behind this trend.
1. Cost Efficiency
One of the primary reasons for the prevalence of double-sided flexible PCBs is cost. Manufacturing multilayer PCBs involves more complex processes, including additional lamination and more intricate design requirements. Double-sided FPCs can be produced at a lower cost, making them more appealing for a wide range of applications, especially in consumer electronics where budget constraints are significant.
2. Simpler Design and Manufacturing Process
Double-sided flexible PCBs are generally easier to design and fabricate compared to multilayer boards. The manufacturing process for multilayer FPCs is more intricate, requiring precise alignment and additional stages of production. This complexity can lead to longer lead times and increased chances of defects. In contrast, double-sided PCBs offer a more straightforward approach, facilitating quicker turnaround times and reduced manufacturing risks.
3. Sufficient Density for Many Applications
Many applications that utilize flexible PCBs do not require the high density that multilayer configurations provide. Double-sided designs can often accommodate the necessary components and routing without the need for additional layers. This is particularly true in consumer devices like smartphones and wearables, where the size and weight constraints can often be met with double-sided FPCs.
4. Enhanced Flexibility and Bend Radius
Double-sided flexible PCBs inherently offer better flexibility and a smaller bend radius than multilayer boards. This flexibility is crucial in applications where the PCB needs to fit into tight spaces or move dynamically. The more layers added to a PCB, the less flexible it becomes. For applications that require frequent bending or twisting, double-sided designs are often the preferred choice.
5. Thermal Management
Thermal management is an essential consideration in PCB design. Double-sided FPCs can facilitate better heat dissipation due to their simpler structure, allowing heat to spread more evenly across the surface. In contrast, multilayer boards can trap heat between layers, potentially leading to overheating issues.
6. Fewer Connection Points
Double-sided flexible PCBs typically require fewer vias and connection points than multilayer configurations. This reduction simplifies the overall design and can lead to improved reliability. Fewer points of potential failure can enhance the lifespan and performance of the final product.
7. Application Suitability
Certain applications, particularly in the automotive and medical sectors, often rely on double-sided flexible PCBs. These sectors prioritize durability and reliability over extreme miniaturization, making double-sided designs ideal. The robust nature of double-sided FPCs aligns well with the stringent requirements of these industries.
Conclusion
While multilayer flexible PCBs have their place in highly complex and dense electronic designs, double-sided FPCs dominate the market due to their cost efficiency, simpler manufacturing processes, sufficient density for many applications, enhanced flexibility, and improved thermal management. As technology continues to advance and the demand for flexible electronics grows, double-sided flexible PCBs will remain a cornerstone of modern electronic design, offering a practical balance between performance and manufacturability.
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