PCBs are usually labelled with barcodes or 2D code labels in order to identify. Labels are a cost-effective solution - however, they require lots of space on the PCB. A scanner identifies the PCBs which are then assigned with the aid of a database.
Below a brief overview of various methods to identify assembled PCBs:
1. Barcode: An adhesive label is attached to the PCB. The barcode usually identifies an assembled PCB series. The barcode just consists of an identification number for which assembled PCB information is stored in a database.
2. 2D code: This is a two dimensional code which in contrast to the barcode can also store assembled PCB-specific data. 2D codes have excellent error correction properties and can sometimes still be read even after being damaged. Disadvantage: A special 2D scanner is required to read the matrix!
3. RFID label: An adhesive label with integrated RFID TAG is attached to the PCB the same as a barcode label. Non-destructive removal of these labels is not possible. RFID labels can be read via a scanner thus identifying the assembled PCB. Moreover, the labels store assembled PCB-specific additional information. In comparison to barcodes or 2D codes, RFID labels are more expensive, but they offer considerably more benefits.
4. TAG: A TAG is a complete RFID transponder with chip and antenna, and usually sealed in a housing. A complete TAG can be embedded in a PCB. The chip is mounted on the PCB and the conductors are used as the antenna. Both these processes require additional steps and depend on the structure and specifications of the PCB, e.g. thickness, flexibility or rigidness, etc. Since new calculations are always required for this version, it is comparatively expensive. Further cost factor: If the TAG is defective, the PCB can also be discarded!
However, it is beneficial that the RFID transponder is connected permanently to the PCB and cannot be removed. TAGs are placed the same as a PCB component or attached like an adhesive label.
The market for RFID is growing fast. Evertiq reported that experts predict sales will increase from US$ 1.2 bn in 2008 to US$ 3.5 bn by 2012.
In repsonce to your article on "RfiD on printed circuit boards" (Dated: 25th July 2008), please see our company press release which went national in June 2008.
PRESS RELEASE
LYNCOLEC TO PREVIEW ANTI-COUNTERFEITING TECHNOLOGY
WORLD-CLASS printed circuit board manufacturer Lyncolec is pioneering new technology to help stop counterfeiting in the aerospace and military markets.
Lyncolec’s innovation could prevent sophisticated weaponry falling into the hands of terrorists and rogue states.
In a global first, Dorset-headquartered Lyncolec has developed Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tagging of circuit boards to deter the sale of counterfeit equipment and to assist in asset tracking.
Lyncolec will preview the technology at Farnborough International, July 14-20, when it exhibits as part of the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF).
Stand 12, Booth 13, Hall 4
RFID tagging means that every single circuit board within a newly developed aerospace or weapons system – be it a missile, tank, plane or warship – can be individually identified with unique embedded RFID tag.
Lyncolec Managing Director Nigel Rogers said: “The aim is stop sophisticated flight and weaponry falling prey to counterfeiting.
“Counterfeiters are less likely to sell to the grey market if they know that systems have tamper-proof RFID tags embedded in the circuit boards. These tags can be traced throughout the life of a product within the supply chain.
“This will help to safeguard defence secrets, protect the intellectual property rights of suppliers and stop equipment falling into the wrong hands – potentially saving the lives of military personnel and civilians around the world,” he added.
Major aerospace and defence groups have already been calling for this technology. The issue has been discussed by first-tier suppliers at international conferences.
Lyncolec is leading the race to bring PCB RFID tagging to market. It is the only printed circuit board manufacturer in the UK to hold the AS 9100 approval required by the world’s leading aerospace groups.
Lyncolec is also in the process of attaining the National Aerospace & Defence Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) AC7119 standard, which would make it one of only eight PCB makers in the world to do so.
Last year Lyncolec gained national publicity for its forward-thinking use of webcams to help clients track the progress of their contracts at its factory in Poole, Dorset.
For more details, visit www.lyncolec.co.uk, or contact Lyncolec Managing Director Nigel Rogers, 01202 679797, n.rogers@lyncolec.co.uk
~ Ends ~
Lyncolec is the only printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer in the UK to hold the AS 9100 approval required by the world’s leading aerospace groups.
In a world first, Lyncolec is patenting the concept of Radio Frequency Identication (RFID) tagging embedded in printed circuit boards.
The aim is to improve supply chain and asset management with full life traceability of each part.
Since 2005 the 70-strong company has invested £800,000 in new technology. One of the improvements enables customers to track the progress of their orders in real time at the company’s factories in Poole, Dorset.
Lyncolec was founded in the early 1970s in Leominster, Herefordshire. Its contracts have ranged from aerospace, flight and military work including circuit boards for projects such as the NASA Cassini satellite and Formula One racing cars.
Lyncolec is a member of the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC) and the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF).
Approvals: AS 9100/BS EN 9100:2003, BS EN ISO 9001:2000, CECC 23000 cert no E071/CA, IECQ cert no 011/QCA, WEAF, SC21, SBAC, FAC.
Posted by: Jamie Reid | 19 August 2008 at 03:28 PM