Skip to content

PCB Colors

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) come in a variety of colors, and the color is usually determined by the type of solder mask used, which is the protective layer over the copper traces.

PCB-About-4

About PCB Colors

PCB colors primarily refer to the color of the solder mask, which is the protective layer applied over the copper traces on a PCB. This layer protects the board from environmental damage, such as moisture, dust, and physical wear. The color of the solder mask does not directly affect the electrical performance of the board but can influence aesthetics, visibility during manufacturing, and brand identity.

The color of a PCB doesn’t affect its functionality but can influence cost, inspection ease, and aesthetics. Green is the most common and cost-effective color, while other colors like black, red, and blue are chosen for unique looks or branding. The choice of color depends on design preferences, cost, and manufacturing visibility.

Solder Mask Printing Process

The solder mask is a protective layer applied to PCBs to prevent solder bridges and protect copper traces from oxidation. The solder mask printing process, which involves screen printing and photolithography, is essential for ensuring PCB durability and preventing soldering issues. Proper application of the solder mask enhances the PCB’s reliability and functionality.

Color PCB Articles

PCB COLORS Q & A

Green is obviously the standard, if you take a sample of 1000 different PCB's from different manufacturers, green is clearly the winner. So if you want a standardized board color, you'd better order green.

Green creates less eye strain and makes it easier to see every part of the PCB. Plus, line workers are now the most accustomed to a green circuit board, so they likely have an easier time quickly scanning green PCBs than they do other colors.

In general, the color of a PCB does not affect its electrical performance, but it does have an impact on its appearance and inspection efficiency during the manufacturing process. Different colored PCBs may require varying manufacturing processes.

The industry has heavily invested in the mass production of green solder masks, leading to economies of scale that make green PCBs more affordable than less commonly produced colors.

FR4 can also be used as a reinforcing rib material for flexible circuit boards. The surface colors of FR-4 are yellow, white, black, and blue.

They are oily liquids or solids, clear to yellow in color, with no smell or taste. PCBs are very stable mixtures that are resistant to extreme temperature and pressure. PCBs were used widely in electrical equipment like capacitors and transformers.