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Month: May 2024

Are Flexible PCBs Prone to Electromagnetic Interference?

Flexible PCBs Prone to Electromagnetic Interference

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is the unwanted electrical noise that can interfere with your circuit’s signal and cause data loss, signal distortion, or even system failure. This unwanted noise can come from a variety of sources, including nearby electronic devices, wireless signals, and power lines. To prevent these problems from occurring, your flex circuits must be properly shielded against EMI.

EMI shielding is a process of adding conductive material to your flex PCB that protects it from absorbing and radiating electromagnetic interference. While there are a few different methods of EMI shielding, all of them increase the thickness of your flex circuit. This can violate the bend criteria and pose a risk of mechanical failure, so it is important to consider this issue during design.

Flexible PCBs are a key component of many electronics, from smartphones to laptop computers. The tiny spaces inside these products make it difficult to fit wires and other components, so flexible pcb allow them to be shaped into the shape needed by the product.

The conductive copper layers in a flexible pcb are etched into a polyester or polyimide substrate, and then a protective layer is applied to protect the traces from moisture, dirt, and other damage. A flex PCB can have as many or as few layers as needed, but a high layer count drives up the cost. This is because each additional layer requires more time, materials and expertise to laminate. It is also important to consider your etching options when designing a flex PCB to reduce the number of layers.

Are Flexible PCBs Prone to Electromagnetic Interference?

Using a metal foil to shield the conductive copper traces from the rest of the board is one effective way to reduce EMI on a flex PCB. Another technique is to separate the signals and power traces on your PCB. This can be done by physically separating them or using a high impedance buffer to isolate the signals. Lastly, it’s a good idea to use EMI filters to suppress unwanted noise on your PCB.

Flexible PCBs have a variety of uses in medical and wearable devices, especially those that must endure the rough environments and repeated bending found in these applications. They offer higher durability and lower weight than rigid PCBs, while still maintaining their flexibility. They can be molded into the necessary shapes for many medical and wearable devices, such as pacemakers, hearing aids, heart monitors, and exercise trackers.

For example, the PillCam is a swallowable device that utilizes a flexible PCB to transmit video and audio from within the body. This durable and lightweight flexible PCB can take on the natural shapes of the human body, allowing it to capture images and other data in places where other technology would be impossible to place. They are also a great option for aerospace applications because they can withstand the high temperatures and vibrations of airplanes and satellites.

What types of industries commonly use print pcb board in their products?

print pcb board

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are ubiquitous components found in a wide range of electronic devices and systems across numerous industries. Their versatility, reliability, and scalability make them indispensable for powering and controlling everything from consumer electronics to industrial machinery. Understanding the types of industries that commonly use print PCB boards in their products sheds light on the diverse applications and significance of this foundational technology.

One of the most prominent industries that extensively utilizes print PCB boards is the consumer electronics industry. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and smartwatches, print pcb board form the core infrastructure of these devices, enabling them to perform various functions efficiently and reliably. The compact size, high-density interconnects, and advanced manufacturing techniques of print PCB boards are well-suited to the miniaturized form factors and intricate circuitry required in consumer electronics.

Moreover, the automotive industry relies heavily on print PCB boards for vehicle electronics, including engine control units (ECUs), infotainment systems, navigation systems, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Print PCB boards play a crucial role in managing engine performance, monitoring vehicle sensors, controlling safety features, and facilitating communication between onboard systems. As automotive technologies continue to evolve, print PCB boards will remain integral to enabling innovation and enhancing vehicle functionality and safety.

What types of industries commonly use print pcb board in their products?

In the aerospace and defense sectors, print PCB boards are essential components of avionics systems, communication systems, radar systems, and guidance systems. The stringent reliability, durability, and performance requirements of aerospace and defense applications demand robust and ruggedized print PCB boards capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, shock, vibration, and electromagnetic interference. Print PCB boards in these industries undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure compliance with stringent safety and quality standards.

Additionally, the healthcare industry relies on print PCB boards for a wide range of medical devices and equipment, including diagnostic devices, imaging systems, patient monitoring systems, and therapeutic devices. Print PCB boards enable the integration of sensors, microcontrollers, and communication interfaces essential for collecting, processing, and transmitting medical data accurately and securely. As medical technologies continue to advance, print PCB boards will play an increasingly vital role in enabling personalized healthcare solutions and improving patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the industrial automation and manufacturing sector utilize print PCB boards in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, machine vision systems, motor drives, and industrial IoT (IIoT) devices. Print PCB boards enable the automation and optimization of industrial processes, enhancing productivity, efficiency, and reliability. The scalability and flexibility of print PCB boards make them ideal for adapting to evolving manufacturing requirements and integrating with existing infrastructure.

Moreover, the telecommunications and networking industry relies on print PCB boards for routers, switches, base stations, optical transceivers, and telecommunications infrastructure. Print PCB boards enable the transmission, routing, and processing of data and voice signals across vast networks, supporting global connectivity and communication. The high-speed signaling capabilities and signal integrity of print PCB boards are essential for maintaining network performance and reliability.

In conclusion, print PCB boards are integral components used across a wide spectrum of industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace and defense, healthcare, industrial automation, telecommunications, and networking. Their versatility, reliability, and scalability make them indispensable for powering and controlling a diverse array of electronic devices and systems, enabling innovation, efficiency, and progress across various sectors. As technology continues to advance, print PCB boards will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of industries worldwide.

How Do You Mitigate Signal Reflections in High-Speed PCB Assys?

Mitigate Signal Reflections in High-Speed PCB Assys

Signal integrity plays a crucial role in the performance of your PCB, as it determines how accurately and reliably data is transmitted. Signal reflection and distortion are two of the main factors that can affect signal integrity, leading to various problems such as ringing or erroneous interpretation of signals by the receiver. These issues can degrade signal quality and increase noise, which leads to communication errors and reduced system performance. To mitigate these effects, you need to understand how they occur and use proper cable termination and PCB layout techniques to prevent them.

Signal reflection occurs when a signal pulse hits a boundary between different layers. This reflects the wave back to itself, which can be either inverted or shifted. The reflected signal may also be absorbed or dissipated, depending on the direction of the wave, the impedance of the signal, and the distance between the source terminal and the receiving terminal. The reflections can cause various problems such as ringing, overshooting, undershooting, and jitter. The reflections can also change the timing of a signal, which can lead to data corruption and synchronization problems. They can also increase power consumption due to increased parasitic inductance and increase the sensitivity of a signal to noise.

The main causes of signal distortion are the changing characteristics of a signal and the incompatibility of its transmission line. These changes can be caused by various factors, including component tolerances, manufacturing imperfections, and external electromagnetic interference (EMI). They can also result from the interaction between different components within a circuit.

How Do You Mitigate Signal Reflections in High-Speed PCB Assys?

A faulty connection between the source terminal and the signal line can result in reflection, especially when it’s an AC signal. A signal reflected from the grounding point can interfere with the transmission line, causing unwanted coupling between adjacent traces and decreasing the efficiency of the circuit. The reflected signal can also cause a delay, which can be problematic when it’s used for high-speed digital signals.

To reduce signal distortion in your pcb assy, you need to ensure that the signal transmission lines have a consistent impedance. This can be achieved by minimizing the transmission length and using high-quality PCB materials with low losses. You should also use differential signaling to cancel out common-mode noise and maintain signal integrity. Finally, you should use good routing techniques, such as keeping analog and digital signal traces separate from each other and placing them away from noisy components.

In addition to the above, you should avoid unnecessary turns and vias on your PCB to minimize parasitic inductance. You should also use a solid ground plane to reduce EMI and maintain proper power distribution in your board. In addition, you should use decoupling capacitors near ICs to reduce voltage fluctuations. Lastly, you should use simulation verification to ensure that your board meets the required signal integrity and EMI requirements. With these steps, you can achieve a high-performance PCB that meets all your requirements.

Addressing these common design flaws involves a combination of thorough design reviews, adherence to industry standards, and leveraging advanced simulation tools. By paying close attention to these potential pitfalls, designers and manufacturers can enhance the reliability and performance of PCBs, ensuring the final product meets its intended specifications and functions effectively.

What is a PCB Board Manufacturer?

PCB Board Manufacturer

Printed circuit boards (PCB) are the key structural element of most electronic devices. They provide a platform for the integration of microchips, capacitors, resistors, diodes, and other components to connect, control, and monitor a device’s function and performance. The PCB fabrication process is a complex sequence of steps that requires high levels of precision and accuracy. It includes strict testing at multiple points of the manufacturing journey to ensure that each finished product meets its intended functional capabilities.

The PCB fabrication journey begins with a customer-provided panel of single-sided or double-sided boards. The panel is deposited with copper on one side or both, depending on the pcb board manufacturer design specifications. The resulting copper pattern is then etched and plated to expose the desired circuitry. The exposed surfaces of the copper are then coated with tin, which prevents oxidation and enhances solderability. The tin layer also serves as an electrical contact surface.

Next, the panel is scanned by a computer to create a digital image of its inner and outer layers. This image is then matched with a pre-loaded CAD/CAM file. The corresponding print patterns are then deposited onto the board, using an imaging system called a laser direct imager (LDI).

Once the printed images are applied to the board, they’re drilled with holes to help align the layers. Once the layer alignment is complete, the patterned layers are bonded to the substrate and inner panels with an epoxy resin known as prepreg. The prepreg is then placed into a laminating press, where heat and pressure are used to fuse the layers together. The holes drilled earlier help keep the inner and outer layers properly aligned.

What is a PCB Board Manufacturer?

The resulting PCB is not yet functional, but it can be assembled into its final form with the help of a machine called an optical punch. This machine drills a series of pins through the layers to maintain proper alignment and security.

The last step of the PCB manufacturing process is a specialized form of etching called immersion gold. This step is essential for ensuring that the copper connections on the surface of the board remain solid and reliable throughout the device’s lifecycle. This type of etching is also important for preventing short circuits and other faults that can occur during the assembly process. Finally, the PCB must undergo a series of rigorous tests to assess its reliability and endurance over its intended lifespan. These tests include visual inspection, electrical testing, and mechanical testing. The results of these tests are used to identify any potential issues, which can then be rectified through the manufacturing cycle.

A PCB (Printed Circuit Board) manufacturer is a company or facility that specializes in the production of printed circuit boards, which are essential components in electronic devices. These boards serve as the foundation for connecting and supporting various electronic components, including integrated circuits, resistors, capacitors, and other electronic parts. PCB manufacturers play a crucial role in the electronics industry by providing high-quality, reliable, and customized circuit boards for a wide range of applications.

What role does bending radius play in Circuit board design?

Circuit board design

A circuit board is a flat piece of material that holds and connects electronic components, allowing electrical signals to flow between them. It is used in a variety of applications and is an essential component in most modern devices. To ensure the integrity of the board, it must be able to bend and deform without causing damage or shortening its life. During the design process, it is important to consider how many times the board will be bent and what role the bending radius will play.

The first step in designing a circuit board is creating a schematic, which is a symbolic representation of the circuit’s connections. Once this has been completed, the physical layout of the components can begin. This includes identifying the placement and type of connections on the circuit board, as well as determining how much bending will occur.

As the traces on a flexible circuit board are subjected to repeated bending, it is important to design them in a way that will prevent them from failing due to excessive stress. This can be done by ensuring that the copper is placed close to the neutral axis, which will not experience any strain or stress during the bending process. In addition, avoiding tight bending radiuses will help to reduce the risk of failure.

What role does bending radius play in Circuit board design?

When deciding on the size of a bending radius, it is important to consider the number of layers in a flexible PCB and the thickness of the copper. As a general rule, the higher the number of layers and the thicker the copper, the larger the bending radius will need to be.

A flex PCB must be able to support multiple layers and a large amount of copper in order to function properly. This can be challenging, particularly if the bending radius is too small. For example, tight bending can cause the copper traces to break or crack, which may lead to open circuits and other problems. Additionally, it can cause the dielectric layers to separate from the copper layers, which can also lead to failure over time.

In addition to preventing copper traces from breaking, the bending radius should also be large enough to avoid a stress concentration at the corners of the circuit board. This is important because it will reduce the likelihood of shorts or electrical interference between the traces. Another crucial factor to consider is the use of a mechanical stiffener. A stiffener can be added to a flexible circuit board to help it resist bending and ensure that the connectors, surface mount openings, and copper plane layers are not damaged.

A dynamic bending standard requires the flex PCB to be folded a certain number of times before being installed in its final product. The bending radius must be at least six times the layer thickness for one to two layers and up to twelve times for three or more layers. It is also important to keep in mind that the bending radius must be equal for both the copper and the underlying substrate.

Can Using a Car AC Recharge Kit Void My Vehicle Warranty?

Car AC Recharge Kit Void My Vehicle Warranty

The car air conditioning system relies on a delicate balance of refrigerant gas and compressor oil. Over time, it’s inevitable that some of this essential fluid will leak out of the AC system, leading to a noticeable drop in your vehicle’s cooling capabilities. Using an at-home recharge kit to plug this refrigerant loss may seem like a quick, inexpensive fix, but this DIY method can lead to bigger issues over time. Most recharge kits include a stop leak sealant that can interfere with air conditioner components like the compressor and hoses, creating clogs and other problems.

Moreover, many ac car recharge kit are incompatible with newer cars. The refrigerant used in these canisters is typically R134a, but newer cars use the more environmentally friendly R1234yf refrigerant. Mixing these types of refrigerants can create unintended consequences and even damage the equipment used by professional auto shops to perform A/C services.

A DIY ac recharge kit also can’t accurately measure the amount of refrigerant being added to your air conditioner. This is because these cans don’t have pressure gauges that show the correct pressure of the system, but rather rely on a color-coding system. If you don’t follow the manufacturer’s recommended refrigerant weight, you can overcharge your system and cause permanent damage that will require a costly repair bill from a professional auto shop.

Can Using a Car AC Recharge Kit Void My Vehicle Warranty?

Another common reason that can void your car warranty is installing unauthorized aftermarket electrical modifications. These can include music systems, fog lamps, high-intensity headlights and other changes that aren’t approved by the car manufacturer. This can cause electrical failures that will void your car’s warranty.

A major sign that your vehicle’s air conditioning is in need of a recharge or other repair is the smell of odor coming from the vents. This is a clear indication that the refrigerant in the system is contaminated with mold or other contaminants, which is a serious problem that only a professional can diagnose and fix. Additionally, if you continue to use your air conditioning after the system is contaminated with contaminants, the system will be more likely to develop a major leak that can cause further damage and cost you more money in repairs in the future.

Recharge kits are essentially a hose with a recharging can tap and pressure gauge that you attach to the low side port of your AC system. When you press the trigger on the recharging can’s nozzle it pumps refrigerant into the system through the pressure gauge. The pressure gauge is important because it allows you to keep track of how much refrigerant goes into the system and ensures that your AC compressor clutch can begin spinning.

The pressure gauge also gives you an idea of the system’s current temperature, and an arrow on the gauge can help you target the right temperature for a particular recharge. You must be careful not to overfill the system because that could damage the compressor or other components. The recharging kit also includes a stop leak, which is meant to plug any small leaks that happen as you charge the system. Unfortunately, these kinds of leaks are typically not easy to fix and can clog the entire system.

Why do we need stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board?

stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board

A circuit board stiffener is a rigid structure added to specific areas of a flexible PCB to provide mechanical support. Stiffeners can be attached to the board by thermal bonding or pressure-sensitive adhesives. Properly applied, they enhance flex PCB reliability and durability. This guide explores the use of stiffeners in flex circuit designs, including how they are positioned on the board and their different functions.

A flex PCB is subject to considerable stress during manufacture, assembly, installation, and everyday use. Stiffeners counteract this stress, preventing damage and failure in critical areas. They also facilitate effective heat distribution and dissipation, which improves the board’s functionality.

Stiffeners are also used in a number of applications for specialized or sensitive components that require extra protection. circuit board stiffener can be made from a variety of materials, including polyimide, FR-4, and metals such as stainless steel and aluminum. Choosing the right material for your design depends on your requirements and environmental conditions.

Why do we need stiffeners in a Printed Circuit Board?

Using stiffeners in a flex PCB helps to protect the copper from damage, and is particularly important in thin layers. It is important to use the right thickness of stiffener for your application, to make sure it can handle the stresses and strains of handling and bending. In addition, it is essential to ensure that the stiffener does not cover any plated holes on the circuit board. This would prevent the plating from fracturing during bending, which can cause intermittent open circuits.

Adding stiffeners to the ends of the flex circuit can help to reduce bending, which in turn will extend the life of the component. Stiffeners can also be added to allow for the insertion of zero-insertion force (ZIF) connectors, which may be difficult or impossible to insert without stiffeners.

Another important use of a stiffener is to increase the rigidity of a flex circuit in the area where components are mounted. This will prevent the flex circuit from twisting around these areas and potentially damaging the soldered joints. Stiffeners can be attached to a flex PCB by thermal or pressure-sensitive bonding methods, with each method providing distinct advantages and disadvantages.

The type of stiffener you choose should be compatible with the chemistry and temperature of your environment. For example, you should avoid using a copper stiffener in an environment that can become extremely hot, as this could damage the conductive material. You should also choose a material that is highly resistant to chemical solvents, acids, and bases, as these will damage the surface of your flex PCB.

Adding a stiffener can significantly improve the performance of your flexible PCB. Whether you are mounting PTH components or simply need to control the bend areas of your circuit, they can help you achieve the best possible results in your project. Make sure to consult with your flex PCB manufacturer to learn about the different options available and find the best stiffener for your needs.

What Are the Key Elements of a Constructive Dismissal Claim?

Key Elements of a Constructive Dismissal Claim

When an employer creates intolerable working conditions for their employees, it can be difficult to know whether this is a valid grounds for a constructive dismissal claim. It is important for employees to understand what constitutes a constructive dismissal and the laws that protect them in this scenario. Understanding this will help employees to identify signs of this type of environment in their workplace and take action when necessary.

The key element of a constructive dismissal case is a fundamental breach of contract. This can include a breach of an express or implied contractual term. An express term can be a direct promise made in writing, such as a salary increase or training, and an implied term can be an obligation to maintain trust and confidence between the parties. For an employee to make a constructive dismissal claim, they must have a reasonable belief that the fundamental breach constituted an effective termination of their employment.

An employer can be held to have breached a contract in a number of ways that may give rise to a constructive dismissal claim. For example, an employer could impose undue stress on an employee by placing them in a position where they are overworked or undertrained. This could result in a lack of productivity, which is considered a breach of the contract.

What Are the Key Elements of a Constructive Dismissal Claim?

Another way that an employer can breach a contract is by making significant changes to the job. This can include demoting an employee to a lower position or transferring them to a different department without any notice or explanation. For example, if an employee is moved from the marketing department to accounting without any justification, this would be considered a serious change and grounds for a constructive dismissal claim.

For an employee to make a constructive dismissal case, they must also have resigned shortly after the incident that caused them to resign. It is also important for them to have attempted to resolve the situation with their employer before taking resigning action. This could have been through a formal grievance or by simply talking to management about the issues they were experiencing.

When claiming a constructive dismissal, an employee must be able to provide evidence that they suffered financial loss as a result of the employer’s actions. This includes any lost salary and benefits, as well as the costs of looking for a new job. In addition, it is crucial that an employee receives a sufficient amount of severance pay from their employer to cover these costs.

It is important that all employers create an environment in which employees feel supported and safe. This can be done by establishing clear policies that clearly define expectations and the process for dealing with any issues. Additionally, it is vital to ensure that employees are aware of their rights in the event of a breach and that they have access to legal advice when needed.

Do You Offer Seasonal Discounts on boat charter in Balearics?

Seasonal Discounts on boat charter in Balearics

If you charter a yacht in the Balearics, it’s easy to see why the islands are famous for their sun-drenched beaches, natural terrestrial paradises like Cala Mitjana or Cala Fornells, and sparkling blue waters teeming with darting silverfish. The Balearics are known for being a package holiday destination that can get noisy and crowded during the summer, but if you sail around the archipelago during shoulder season or winter (December to February), you’ll find tranquil bays to enjoy and onshore activities that aren’t overly hectic.

The cost of a yacht charter varies depending on the size, type and age of the boat. For example, a motor yacht is usually more expensive than a sailing catamaran. In addition, the number of people on board will also affect the price.

SamBoat offers a wide selection of boats to rent, with something for everyone. You can choose from motor yachts, sailing yachts, RIBs, catamarans and canal boats. We also offer a variety of charter options, from weekly to long-term. We can help you find the perfect boat for your needs, whether you want to cruise the sheltered coves of the Balearic Islands or explore the crystal clear waterways of Croatia and Turkey.

A big part of the cost of a boat charter in Balearics is related to the location and season, with the highest prices in the Western Mediterranean. This can be due to the fact that berths in the ports are more expensive, as well as other costs for maintenance and servicing. On the other hand, North European waters offer lower charter week prices.

We’ve put together a chart that compares the average charter prices for each month of the year. You’ll notice that the lowest rates are during May and September, while the highest prices are for bookings made in June.

Do You Offer Seasonal Discounts on boat charter in Balearics?

If you are thinking of chartering a boat in the Balearics, we recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment. 212 Yachts is an award-winning charter company that specialises in the Balearic Islands. We’re dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service, and our team of experts are on hand to assist with all aspects of your charter. We can help you to find the ideal yacht for your trip, and we’ll even provide a professional skipper on request.

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, the Balearics are one of Europe’s top yachting destinations. From the capital of Mallorca, Palma, to the charming old town of Ciutadella on Minorca, the islands have a variety of things to do and see. The sheltered bays, quiet beaches and lively towns of the Balearics make it the perfect destination for a sailing holiday.

Mykonos offers several mooring facilities and marinas where you can safely dock your boat charter. These facilities typically provide amenities such as fueling stations, water, electricity, and waste disposal services. While some marinas may require advance reservations, others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to check availability and make arrangements in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Jenny Caird is the founder of 212 Yachts, an ambitious and respected business that’s dedicated to ensuring the clients they work with are “wowed” by their experiences onboard. With a strong background in customer service, Jenny and her team deliver a truly bespoke experience.

Can a 4 Layer Circuit Board Be Used in High-Temperature Applications?

Can a 4 Layer Circuit Board Be Used

As you can imagine, it’s important to have a well-designed circuit board for high-temperature applications. The key to achieving this is the PCB stack-up, which refers to the arrangement of copper and insulating layers that make up the PCB. A good stack-up can improve signal integrity, limit radiation and crosstalk, and reduce power delivery impedance. In addition, it’s important to have a continuous ground plane to reduce EMI and keep digital and analog signals from interacting with each other.

In order to do this, we need to ensure that the outer layers are devoted to component placement and that all the remaining internal layer space is allocated to traces and power networks. This can be a challenge for designers who are used to having more space available to them. But it’s possible to design a 4 layer circuit board that meets these requirements without having to compromise on the quality of the design or sacrifice other critical features.

The main issue that can be encountered is the thermal expansion of different components and layers. The thermal expansion of dielectrics and copper varies depending on the temperature they are exposed to. If the different components and layers have differing CTEs, this can lead to problems during manufacturing because the different layers may expand at different rates. This can result in stress cracks in the board and degrade the quality of the finished product.

Can a 4 Layer Circuit Board Be Used in High-Temperature Applications?

To avoid this, it’s necessary to choose a high-temperature board material that has a similar CTE to the copper and dielectrics in your PCB. It’s also essential to use etching-resistant dry film for the inner layers of your board. This will ensure that the etching solution does not come into contact with the copper or other parts of the board.

Another factor to consider is the amount of radiation that your board can tolerate. Radiation is electromagnetic energy that is emitted from your PCB as it heats up or cools down. This can cause a number of issues, including electromagnetic interference (EMI). It’s crucial to use a board that has a low radiation level, especially for high-speed signals.

The most common method of reducing the amount of radiation is to have solid power and ground planes on the outer layers of the board. This is said to be the best option from an EMC perspective, as it helps to reduce EMI emissions by providing a clear return path for the current. However, this can lead to other problems, such as capacitive crosstalk between signal layers. This can occur when a signal changes planes, for example from layer 1 to 4. In these cases, the return current must change planes too and this can introduce an interplane capacitance between the two. This can be a serious problem for high-speed signals and high-frequency designs. To avoid this, you can try to orthogonal routing on separate layers and keep the signal distances as short as possible.