Emerging applications drive PCB growth

Taiwan’s PCB segment is thriving, thanks to the booming local consumer electronics manufacturing industry. The island is positioned as a major global production base, accounting for more than half of the world’s total PCB output. Its selection includes single- and double-sided, multilayer, FPC, rigid-flex, HDI and IC substrates.

The continued popularity of 3G, smartphones and PDA phones, digital cameras, GPS navigation devices, laptops and e-book readers is fueling development efforts in multilayer PCBs with HDI technology.

Increased adoption of e-paper such as electronic labels used in supermarkets and retail stores, meanwhile, is driving flexible PCB or FPC growth.

Miniaturization remains the focus of domestic manufacturers as demand for more compact and highly portable electronic devices spur them to roll out products with smaller footprint. An increasing number of models are also being designed with thinner profiles and high-density interfaces, suitable for small devices that require faster data transmission. PCBs with low dielectric constant and dissipation are also available.

Apart from miniaturization, makers are also going “green,” offering versions that are halogen- and lead-free. They are likewise emphasizing RoHS compliance.

PCB production in Taiwan is highly consolidated, allowing manufacturers to offer one-stop-shop and total solution design services.

The Fair Friend Group, for instance, is composed of eight subsidiary companies. The FFG offers a range of products and services, from equipment supply to co-design, board layout and materials sourcing.

Unlike large makers that run mainland China-based factories capable of volume production, small companies are compelled to streamline low-end rollout. They concentrate instead on providing design services for upscale models that yield higher profits.