A PCB is a flat, non-conductive board (typically made of fiberglass/epoxy like FR-4) with thin layers of copper circuitry etched onto its surface. It provides both mechanical support and electrical connections for electronic components (resistors, chips, capacitors, etc.) using conductive pathways called traces.
Key Features:
Structure:Substrate: Insulating base (e.g., FR-4).
Copper Layers: Conduct electricity (1 layer in simple boards, up to 120+ in advanced tech).
Solder Mask: Protective coating (usually green) preventing short circuits.
Silkscreen: Labels for component placement (e.g., "U3" for ICs).
Vias: Tiny plated holes connecting traces across layers.
Functionality:
Replaces manual wiring with precise, automated circuits.
Enables miniaturization and mass production of electronics.
Routes power/signals between components via copper traces.