Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) are an essential component of modern electrical equipment. PCB helps in connecting various components of a circuit board, and it is why devices and appliances like your phones, laptops, microwaves, and electric devices can function. If you are keen on pursuing the field of electronics for your career or are simply interested in the science behind how things work, read on about the working of PCB and its components.

Components of PCB
PCB components play an essential role in the circuit board. Even if a single component fails, the whole circuit board will fall. The components are categorized into two categories:

Active components
Active components are those that can control the flow of electricity and amplify signals. They are essential in designing circuits with signal processing and logic capabilities. Active components include microcontrollers, transistors, and integrated circuits.
Passive components
Passive components do not control the flow of electricity. Yet, they are important for providing circuit resistance, inductance, and capacitance. They help in filtering, protection, and voltage regulation of the circuit. This includes components such as resistors, diodes, capacitors, and inductors.

Types of circuit boards
There are many types of Printed Circuit Boards available in the market. Among them, the common types of circuit boards are the following:

Single-sided PCB
This is the simplest form of PCB. It has components and traces on only one side of the board. It is also cost-effective and is commonly used in simple electronics like calculators and toys.
Double-sided PCB
These boards have components and traces on both sides. They are connected using plated holes and allow for more complex circuits. Such PCBs are used in consumer electronics.
Multi-layer PCB
These PCBs comprise many layers of copper traces, which are separated with the help of insulating material. These boards can support complex circuits. Additionally, they offer better signal integrity.
Rigid PCB
Rigid PCBs are the standard type with a fixed shape. They cannot be bent; these are used in most of the electronic devices.
Flexible PCB
Flexible PCBs are flexible and can be bent easily, making it easy for them to fit into irregular shapes. They are used for flexible devices, like wristwatches and foldable devices.
Rigid-flex PCB
Rigid-flex PCBs have the features of both rigid and flexible boards, offering the benefits of both. They are used in applications with limited space. Such PCBs are used if the board needs to fit into a specific form factor.

Manufacturers of PCB components
PCB manufacturing is a complex process, and you can reach out to manufacturers for your business requirements for circuit boards and their respective components. Here is a list of popular PCB manufacturers to note:

Advanced Circuits
Advanced Circuits is one of the largest manufacturers of PCB. They offer a wide range of PCB services. Their services encompass high-volume production, quick-turn prototypes, and advanced capabilities.
4PCB
4PCB focuses on quick-turn prototypes and production runs. They offer diverse PCB types, including flex, rigid and rigid-flex boards.
JLCPCB
JLCPCB has gained popularity as an international PCB manufacturer. It was established in China in 2006 as a PCB fabricator. They provide cost-effective PCB manufacturing services. JLCPCB also has a user-friendly online platform for ordering.
TTM Technologies
Founded in 1967, TTM Technologies is a leading manufacturer of PCB. They gained popularity in advanced technology PCBs, and they also offer various services, such as high-volume production and prototypes.
Sunstone Circuits
Sunstone Circuits is known for its high-quality PCB fabrication service. It also has excellent customer service. They provide fast turnarounds for both prototypes and production quantities.