Steve Machacek

Specifying Circuit Classes in Flex Circuit Drawings

When preparing a flex circuit fabrication drawing, should you explicitly call out IPC performance class and circuit type? Technically, no—but in practice, it’s a smart move. In a well-developed drawing, the circuit type is often clear from the cross-sectional view (and yes, every good flex design should include one). If no performance class is noted, […]

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When Flex Circuits Meet Water: Critical Factors for Reliable Performance

While most flexible circuits are used in a relatively dry environment, there are applications where water contact or submersion is required. Knowing in advance what types of water contact variables can affect the performance of the flex will help you to create a successful design. You need to first evaluate the application and answer the

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Understanding Tolerances in Flexible Circuit Design

The challenge with cumulative tolerances is meeting the dimensional requirements for items dimensioned on a drawing or specification for a flexible or rigid-flex circuit. It is critical to understand the fabrication processes and how features are defined when creating your tolerance requirements. Read the full article at I-Connect 007 – Mar 2026  

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The Evolution of Printed Circuits: Past, Present, and Future

Ever since the introduction of circuit boards, they have been evolving. They started as single sided, graduating to double-sided with plated through holes. Shortly thereafter multilayer circuit boards were introduced. The evolution didn’t stop there. New substrates began to come to the market with improved electrical and mechanical properties allowing designers to create denser designs

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Flexible T-Type Thermocouples for Advanced Thermal Management Systems & Technology

As thermal management systems become more compact and performance-critical, engineers are turning to smarter sensing solutions. T-type thermocouples built with flexible printed circuits and etched-foil heater technology offer precise temperature control in space-constrained designs—this article explores how they’re designed, manufactured, and seamlessly integrated into advanced thermal management systems. Read the full article at I-Connect 007

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Terminating Flex Circuits

There are many connectors and termination options that are manufactured specifically for use with flexible circuits and flat flexible cables.  Zero insertion force (ZIF) connectors (Figure 1) and insulation displacement connectors (Figure 2) are both good examples. They offer reliable and inexpensive ways to terminate a flexible circuit. At the same time virtually any connector

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