--- title: Epec's Blog (39) description: A manufacturing blog focusing on posts about customized product solutions that are beneficial to engineers or anyone in the electronics industry. (39) --- [![Epec Engineered Technologies](https://www.epectec.com/images/logo.png "Epec Engineered Technologies")](https://www.epectec.com/) [![Epec Engineered Technologies](https://www.epectec.com/images/logo.png "Epec Engineered Technologies")](https://www.epectec.com/) - [Articles](https://www.epectec.com/articles/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) - [Webinars](https://www.epectec.com/webinar/) - [Videos](https://www.epectec.com/videos/) - [Case Studies](https://www.epectec.com/case-studies/) - [News & Events](https://www.epectec.com/news/) - [Customer Portal](https://system.netsuite.com/c.406760/site/NSlogin.html) - [About](https://www.epectec.com/about/overview/) - Back - [Company Overview](https://www.epectec.com/about/overview/) - [Our History](https://www.epectec.com/about/our-history/) - [Culture](https://www.epectec.com/about/culture/) - [Industries Served](https://www.epectec.com/about/industry/) - [Acquisitions](https://www.epectec.com/about/acquisitions.html) - [Operations](https://www.epectec.com/operations/) - Back - [Operational Excellence](https://www.epectec.com/operations/) - [Quality Philosophy](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-philosophy.html) - [Quality Assurance Process](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-assurance-process.html) - [Global Operations](https://www.epectec.com/operations/global-operations.html) - [Logistics & Supply Chain](https://www.epectec.com/operations/logistics-and-supply-chain.html) - [Inventory Stocking](https://www.epectec.com/operations/inventory-stocking.html) - [Approvals](https://www.epectec.com/operations/approvals.html) - [ITAR Registered](https://www.epectec.com/operations/itar-registered.html) - [Engineering](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/overview/) - Back - [Engineering Overview](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/overview/) - [Engineering Support](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/support/) - [Design Services](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/design-services/) - [EpecDFx™](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/epecdfx/) - [Free DFM File Check](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/free-dfm.html) - [PCB Impedance Calculator](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/impedance-calculator.html) - [Products](https://www.epectec.com/products/) - Back - [Overview](https://www.epectec.com/products/) - [Battery Packs](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/) - [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBS](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) - [Cable Assemblies](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) - [Printed Circuit Boards](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/) - [CNC Machining](https://www.epectec.com/cnc-machining/) - [User Interfaces](https://www.epectec.com/user-interfaces/) - [Flexible Heaters](https://www.epectec.com/flexible-heaters/) - [EC Fans & Motors](https://www.epectec.com/fans-motors/) [Battery Packs![Custom Battery Packs](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-battery-packs.png "Batteries and Custom Battery Packs")](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/) --- [CNC Machining![CNC Machining](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-cnc-machining.png "CNC Machining")](https://www.epectec.com/cnc-machining/) [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBs![Flex and Rigid-Flex Circuits](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-flex-and-rigid-flex.png "Flex and Rigid-Flex Circuits")](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) --- [User Interfaces![User Interfaces](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-user-interfaces2.png "User Interfaces Product Solutions")](https://www.epectec.com/user-interfaces/) [Cable Assemblies![Cable Assemblies](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-cable-assemblies.png "Cable Assemblies")](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) --- [Flexible Heaters![Flexible Heaters](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-flexible-heaters.png "Flexible Heaters")](https://www.epectec.com/flexible-heaters/) [Printed Circuit Boards![Printed Circuit Boards](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-printed-circuit-boards2.png "Printed Circuit Boards")](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/) --- [EC Fans & Motors![EC Fans and Motors](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-fans-and-motors.png "EC Fans and Motors")](https://www.epectec.com/fans-motors/) - [Design Guides](https://www.epectec.com/guides/) - [Design Guides](https://www.epectec.com/guides/) - Back - Resources - Back - [Articles](https://www.epectec.com/articles/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) - [Webinars](https://www.epectec.com/webinar/) - [Videos](https://www.epectec.com/videos/) - [Case Studies](https://www.epectec.com/case-studies/) - [News & Events](https://www.epectec.com/news/) - [Customer Portal](https://system.netsuite.com/c.406760/site/NSlogin.html) - [Contact Us](https://www.epectec.com/contact/) - Back - [Contact Information](https://www.epectec.com/contact/) - [Our Sales Team](https://www.epectec.com/contact/our-sales-team.html) - [Office Locations](https://www.epectec.com/contact/office-locations.html) - [Career Opportunities](https://www.epectec.com/contact/career-opportunities.html) - [InstantPCB*Quote*™](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) - Back - [Overview](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) - [Login](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/) - [Register](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/index2.jsp) [![](https://www.epectec.com/images/InstantPCBQuote-logo.png)](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) [Login](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/) [Register](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/index2.jsp) Register to Quote and Order Your PCBs Fast, Easy & Online, 24/7 - [Home](https://www.epectec.com/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) Share This Page: [LinkedIn](https://blog.epectec.com/#linkedin) [X](https://blog.epectec.com/#x) [Facebook](https://blog.epectec.com/#facebook) [Email](https://blog.epectec.com/#email) # Epec's Blog | Electronics Manufacturing Solutions --- ## [Common Prototype vs. Production Failures in Flexible Circuit Boards](https://blog.epectec.com/common-prototype-vs-production-failures-in-flexible-circuit-boards) [![Example of ZIF contact area and crack formation area.](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/examples-of-assembled-flex-and-rigid-flex-pcbs%20(1).jpg "Example of ZIF contact area and crack formation area.")](https://blog.epectec.com/common-prototype-vs-production-failures-in-flexible-circuit-boards) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on March 6, 2020 at 9:44 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) The prototyping phase presents one of the most challenging environments for [flexible circuit board](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) designs. During this stage, circuits are repeatedly installed and removed to validate form, fit, and function. This repeated handling increases the likelihood of mishandling, including excessive bending, dropping, or exceeding design limits. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/common-prototype-vs-production-failures-in-flexible-circuit-boards) --- ## [Using Rigid-Flex PCBs to Improve Design Reliability - Q&A](https://blog.epectec.com/using-rigid-flex-pcbs-to-improve-design-reliability-q-and-a) [![Example of Integrated stiffeners in rigid-flex construction](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/integrated-stiffeners-rigid-flex-pcb-construction.jpg "Example of Integrated stiffeners in rigid-flex construction")](https://blog.epectec.com/using-rigid-flex-pcbs-to-improve-design-reliability-q-and-a) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on March 3, 2020 at 9:46 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) At the conclusion of our webinar, [Using Rigid-Flex PCBs to Improve Design Reliability](https://www.epectec.com/webinar/02-21-2020/using-rigid-flex-pcbs-to-improve-design-reliability.html), we had several questions submitted to our presenter, Product Manager of Flex & Rigid-Flex Circuits, Paul Tome. We compiled these into a readable format on our blog. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/using-rigid-flex-pcbs-to-improve-design-reliability-q-and-a) --- ## [UL Cable Harness Design: Low-Risk Wire Options](https://blog.epectec.com/ul-cable-harness-design-low-risk-wire-options) [![Examples of wire jackets clearly indicating the UL markings.](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/wire-jacket-with-ul-markings.jpg "Examples of wire jackets clearly indicating the UL markings.")](https://blog.epectec.com/ul-cable-harness-design-low-risk-wire-options) Written by [Steven Goodman](https://blog.epectec.com/author/steven-j-goodman) Posted on February 26, 2020 at 10:44 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) One of the first steps in [designing a custom cable assembly](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) is selecting the wire. There are lots of options to choose before the design can be frozen. Selecting a UL spec wire can be challenging if you are unfamiliar with the standards but knowing just a few options allows for a simplified design. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/ul-cable-harness-design-low-risk-wire-options) --- ## [Flex Circuit Design Challenges: Electrical vs. Mechanical](https://blog.epectec.com/flex-circuit-design-challenges-electrical-vs-mechanical) [![Example of a flexible PCB surface micro strip controlled impedance stack-up](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/flexible-pcb-surface-micro-strip-controlle-impedance-stack-up.jpg "Example of a flexible PCB surface micro strip controlled impedance stack-up")](https://blog.epectec.com/flex-circuit-design-challenges-electrical-vs-mechanical) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on February 18, 2020 at 9:21 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [Flex and rigid-flex circuit boards](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) are a combination of both electrical and mechanical requirements that allow for solutions to many tight packaging requirements. However, this combination is also the potential source of design challenges as some electrical requirements can have a negative impact on the mechanical bend capabilities of flex circuits. If not, correctly addressed the reliability of the finished design may be compromised. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/flex-circuit-design-challenges-electrical-vs-mechanical) --- ## [Battery Charging: What to Know to Successfully Charge Your Batteries](https://blog.epectec.com/battery-charging-what-to-know-to-successfully-charge-your-batteries) [![Example of Battery Charge Levels](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/battery-charge-illustration.jpg "Example of Battery Charge Levels")](https://blog.epectec.com/battery-charging-what-to-know-to-successfully-charge-your-batteries) Written by [Anton Beck](https://blog.epectec.com/author/anton-beck) Posted on February 12, 2020 at 9:37 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Rechargeable batteries power products ranging from laptops to portable medical equipment. While charging may seem straightforward, charging performance, battery life, and safety depend on using an appropriate charging method, selecting a charger designed for the battery chemistry, and implementing the proper battery management and protection features. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/battery-charging-what-to-know-to-successfully-charge-your-batteries) --- ## [EMI and RF Shielding Options for Flexible Circuits](https://blog.epectec.com/emi-and-rf-shielding-options-for-flexible-circuits) [![Example of 3-layer copper shielded flex PCB with stitched vias](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/3-layer-copper-shielded-flex-pcb-with-stictched-vias.png "Example of 3-layer copper shielded flex PCB with stitched vias")](https://blog.epectec.com/emi-and-rf-shielding-options-for-flexible-circuits) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on February 4, 2020 at 9:03 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [Flexible circuits](https://www.epectec.com/flex/), like other electrical interconnects, are subject to either receiving or emitting electromagnetic (EM) and or radio frequency (RF) interference. For critical designs, if allowed to occur, the performance of the assembly, or that of other local assemblies, can be compromised to the point of becoming non-functional. The difference between EM and RF interference is the frequency of the “disturbance,” with RF being in the radio frequency range and EM being typically 500 MHZ and higher. There are many potential sources of both types of interference within an assembly. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/emi-and-rf-shielding-options-for-flexible-circuits) --- ## [Top 10 Applications for Flexible Heaters](https://blog.epectec.com/top-10-applications-for-flexible-heaters) [![Example of a Polyimide / Kapton® flexible heater](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/example-of-polyimide-flexible-heater.jpg "Example of a Polyimide / Kapton® flexible heater")](https://blog.epectec.com/top-10-applications-for-flexible-heaters) Written by [Epec Engineered Technologies](https://blog.epectec.com/author/epec-engineered-technologies) Posted on January 29, 2020 at 8:45 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Around the world, different industries have applications and equipment where there will be changing temperatures, humidity, or moisture that can impact how a component operates or processes signals. There may also be instances where a product needs to be at a certain temperature so that it may be processed, such as a liquid chemical or food product that has to be at the right temperature, so that it will be fluid enough to be packaged into containers. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/top-10-applications-for-flexible-heaters) --- ## [Challenges in Dynamic Flexible Circuit Board Design](https://blog.epectec.com/challenges-in-dynamic-flexible-circuit-board-design) [![Flexible PCB manufactured with the proper bend radius](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/flexible-pcb-manufactured-with-the-proper-bend-radius.jpg "Flexible PCB manufactured with the proper bend radius")](https://blog.epectec.com/challenges-in-dynamic-flexible-circuit-board-design) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on January 21, 2020 at 9:43 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Dynamic [flexible circuit boards](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) are designed for applications that require continuous or repetitive motion while maintaining reliable electrical interconnections in a compact form factor. Successful dynamic flex circuit design depends on controlling bend radius, selecting the proper copper type, minimizing layer count, and managing shielding requirements to prevent premature circuit failure. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/challenges-in-dynamic-flexible-circuit-board-design) --- ## [Advanced and Non-Standard PCB Manufacturing Capabilities](https://blog.epectec.com/advanced-and-non-standard-pcb-manufacturing-capabilities) [![pcb with wraparound edge plating](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/pcb-with-wraparound-edge-plating.jpg "pcb with wraparound edge plating")](https://blog.epectec.com/advanced-and-non-standard-pcb-manufacturing-capabilities) Written by [Al Wright](https://blog.epectec.com/author/al-wright) Posted on January 16, 2020 at 9:12 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) There was a time when the PCB manufacturing industry included a fair number of bucket shops, so called because much of their processing was done in small portable tubs filled with etchants, solvents, and other mysterious solutions. They cranked out very basic, low-cost, low-complexity PCBs, using equipment and methods that were questionable at best. Their business and environmental practices were often similarly questionable. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/advanced-and-non-standard-pcb-manufacturing-capabilities) --- ## [Differences Between Coverlay and Flexible Solder Mask](https://blog.epectec.com/differences-between-coverlay-and-flexible-solder-mask) [![Flexible circuit board example with coverlay only.](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/flexible-pcb-with-coverlay-only.jpg "Flexible circuit board example with coverlay only.")](https://blog.epectec.com/differences-between-coverlay-and-flexible-solder-mask) Written by [Paul Tome](https://blog.epectec.com/author/paul-tome) Posted on January 7, 2020 at 9:39 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [Flexible circuits](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) have two material options available to encapsulate the exposed outer layer circuitry: polyimide coverlay and flexible solder mask. While both perform the same basic function of insulating the external layer circuitry, each has different characteristics and capabilities that address specific design requirements. [Read More](https://blog.epectec.com/differences-between-coverlay-and-flexible-solder-mask) [Previous](https://blog.epectec.com/page/38) | [All posts](https://blog.epectec.com/all) | [Next](https://blog.epectec.com/page/40) --- ### Recent Posts --- ### Posts by Topic - [Printed Circuit Boards (162)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/printed-circuit-boards) - [Product Design (138)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/product-design) - [Battery Packs (122)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/battery-packs) - [Cable Assemblies (102)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/cable-assemblies) - [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCB's (96)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/flex-rigid-flex-pcbs) - [Electronics Industry (61)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/electronics-industry) - [User Interfaces (55)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/user-interfaces) - [Quality Solutions (33)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/quality-solutions) - [Flexible Heaters (31)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/flexible-heaters) - [Events, Training, and Support (9)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/events-training-and-support) - [RF Products (7)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/rf-products) - [CNC Machining (3)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/cnc-machining) - [Fans & Motors (1)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/fans-motors) See All --- --- ### Need Help with A Project? 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