How PCBs are built
See how simple two-layer boards evolve into complex multilayer structures with cores, laminates, vias, and plated features.
Talk abstract
From a basic PCB to a high-performance server board
Printed circuit boards are often viewed simply as the platform that connects electronic components, but as systems become faster and more complex, the PCB itself becomes a critical part of the electrical design.
This talk will begin with the basics of PCB construction and manufacturing, using familiar two-layer boards to introduce copper, laminates, drilling, plating, and etching. From there, it will build toward the multilayer boards used in modern computers and high-performance servers, where layer count, vias, materials, and fabrication become much more challenging. The discussion will explore how higher data rates increase dielectric and conductor loss, driving the need for lower-loss laminates, smoother copper, more advanced via structures, and tighter manufacturing controls. Along the way, attendees will see why a 30-layer server board is far more than a simple extension of a basic PCB.
The goal is to give attendees a practical understanding of how electrical performance, manufacturability, reliability, and cost come together in modern PCB design.
What you'll learn
Why materials matter more as speed goes up
Where signal loss comes from
Understand why dielectric loss, conductor loss, copper roughness, and via structures matter at high data rates.
Engineering the whole board
Connect electrical performance with manufacturability, reliability, materials, and cost.