CRITICALITY OF DESIGN AND TESTING OF HIGH POWER PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS

Objectives

This study compares design and test methods which are common in the space industry and investigates if they are suitable for high voltage / high power PCBs.

It provides recommendations for future tests as well as PCBs designs and build-ups.

Challenges

-       Finding PCB designs representative for certain space applications.

-       Choosing / adapting existing electrical test methods to meet the requirements.

Benefits

It provides recommendations for future tests as well as PCBs designs and build-ups.

-       Recommendations for reducing insulation thicknesses leading to PCBs with less volume and mass.

-       Better understanding of the influence of the track geometry on current carrying capacity reducing risks for high power applications

Recommendations for reduced PCB qualification efforts without reducing the benefit.

Plan

The activity includes two evaluation campaigns each analyzing different stack-ups, materials, manufacturers and environmental conditions.

Current status

Activity is completed.

Prime Contractor