Featured
IPC-2221 vs IPC-2152: Which to Use?
A comprehensive comparison of the two major PCB current carrying capacity standards. Learn when to use each and how they differ in trace width calculations.
2024-12-20• 8 min read
← Back to Home
PCB Design Blog
Engineering Insights, Tutorials & Best Practices
Deep-dive articles on PCB trace width calculations, via sizing, impedance control, and industry standards. Written by engineers, for engineers.
StandardsDesign GuideBest PracticesEngineering GuideHigh-Speed DesignTools
All Articles (10)
Standards2024-12-20• 8 min
IPC-2221 vs IPC-2152: Which to Use?
A comprehensive comparison of the two major PCB current carrying capacity standards. Learn when to use each and how they differ in trace width calculations.
IPC-2221IPC-2152PCB Standards
Design Guide2024-12-18• 10 min
PCB Copper Weight: 0.5oz vs 1oz vs 2oz
Compare 0.5oz, 1oz, and 2oz PCB copper weights. Real-world applications, cost trade-offs, and trace width impacts explained.
Copper WeightPCB ManufacturingTrace Width
Best Practices2024-12-16• 12 min
10 Common PCB Trace Width Mistakes
Avoid costly PCB redesigns by learning the most common trace width mistakes. From temperature rise to manufacturing tolerances.
Trace WidthPCB MistakesDesign Tips
Design Guide2024-12-14• 9 min
Thermal Via vs Signal Via Design
Understanding the key differences between thermal vias and signal vias is crucial for effective PCB design. Learn sizing, placement, and when to use each type.
Thermal ViaSignal ViaVia Design
Engineering Guide2024-12-12• 11 min
Via Sizing: How Many Vias Needed?
Calculate the exact number of vias needed for your PCB. Engineering formulas for current requirements with practical examples.
Via SizingVia CountCurrent Capacity
High-Speed Design2024-12-10• 14 min
Microstrip vs Stripline vs CPW Guide
Compare microstrip, stripline, and coplanar waveguide for high-speed PCB design. Impedance calculations and use cases.
MicrostripStriplineCoplanar
High-Speed Design2024-12-08• 15 min
High-Speed Impedance: USB, HDMI, PCIe
Complete reference guide for high-speed interface impedance requirements. Covers USB 2.0/3.0, HDMI, PCIe Gen 1-5, DDR3/4/5, and more with practical design tips.
USBHDMIPCIe
Tools2024-12-06• 7 min
5 Free PCB Calculators for Engineers
Essential online calculators for PCB design: trace width, via current, impedance, and more. Boost your productivity with these free tools.
PCB CalculatorsFree ToolsEngineering Tools
Best Practices2024-12-04• 13 min
PCB Design Checklist: 25 Key Points
Never send a flawed PCB to manufacturing again. 25-point checklist covering trace widths to impedance matching.
ChecklistManufacturingDFM
Design Guide2024-12-02• 10 min
Internal vs External PCB Layers
Thermal and electrical differences between internal and external PCB layers. How layer choice affects trace width and heat.
Internal LayerExternal LayerPCB Stackup
Ready to Calculate?
Put your knowledge into practice with our free PCB design calculators.