Video Conference Device Used Pcb 1.2mm Matte Black Solder Mask

PCB Specifications:

1 Part NO: PCB00356

2 Layer Count: 4 Layer PCB

3 Finished Board Thickness: 1.2MM

4 Copper Thickness: 1/1/1/1 OZ

5 Min Lind Space&Width: 3.0/3.0 mil

6 Application Area: Video Meeting Device

Material Data Sheet:

Q&A

Question: What are Black Pads?

Answer: Black pads are primarily a layer of dark nickel that is formed due to corrosion on the surface of a PCB that has an ENIG (Electroless Nickel and Immersion Gold) finish. Black Pads are the result of excessive phosphorous content reacting with gold during the gold deposition process which is an essential step in applying an ENIG finish.

ENIG is a surface finish that is applied on the printed circuit boards (PCBs) after solder mask application to provide an additional layer of finish/coating on all exposed copper surfaces and sidewalls. Additionally, it helps avoid oxidation and improves the solderability of copper contacts and plated through-holes.

ENIG coating requires 93% of the pure nickel which is applied over the PCB’s surface and also a considerate amount of phosphorous (6 to 8%). It is important to moderate the amount of phosphorous and factor in the possibility of how many times a given PCB will be soldered again as this might increase the phosphorous content and will form a black pad.

Immersion Gold is applied after the nickel deposition process. The Gold provides a considerate coating on all exposed layers. The nickel deposition acts as a barrier between copper and gold, which prevents unwanted unsolderable blots on the PCB’s surface. The Nickel deposition also adds strength to plated through holes and vias.

While the ENIG produces a highly solderable finish, the process of applying the ENIG coating inconsistently creates a black pad which results in reduced solderability and weakly formed solder joints of the PCB.

What Causes Black Pads?

High phosphorus content: An ENIG finished PCB has a longer shelf life but over time some nickel can dissolve leaving behind its by-product which is phosphorous. The amount of phosphorous content increases with reflow soldering. The higher the level of phosphorous, the greater the risk of formation of black pads during the Gold deposition process.

Corrosion during gold deposition: The ENIG process relies on a corrosion reaction when the gold is to be deposited on the nickel surface. It is essential that the gold deposition is not aggressive, as it can increase the corrosion to the level where a black pad is formed.

How to prevent Black pads?

Preventing black pads is an essential step for PCB manufacturers. As observed black pads are caused due to higher levels of phosphorous, so it is essential to control the nickel bath concentration during the metal plating process during the manufacturing stage. Additionally, black pads are also formed due to an aggressive amount of gold deposition. Hence it is essential to maintain strict control over the amount of nickel and gold that is being used.