Flat Flex Cables (FFC, FPC)
1. What are Flat Flex Cables (FFC, FPC)?
FFC (Flexible Flat Cable)
It is a flat flexible cable made of extremely thin tinned flat copper wire sandwiched between PET insulating materials and pressed together by automated equipment.
It has a simple structure, usually a single-layer conductor arrangement, and the conductor spacing, margins, and other parameters can be customized.
FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit)
It uses a flexible substrate (such as polyimide film) to form a circuit pattern through chemical etching technology and supports single-layer or multi-layer design.
It contains complex structures such as copper foil substrate and cover film, which can achieve high-density wiring.
2. Comparison of the Core Differences between FFC and FPC
|
Dimensions |
FFC |
FPC |
|
Structure |
Single-layer flat conductor + Insulation layer laminated |
Etched flexible circuit board, Supports multiple layers |
|
Flexibility |
Flexible but regular shape, only suitable for simple bending |
Can be customized to any shape, Adapt to complex folding scenarios |
|
Production Process |
Lamination process, Low cost |
Etching superposition process, High complexity |
|
Connection Method |
Mostly use socket connector |
Support socket or flat cable clip connector |
3. Where are Flat Flex Cables (FFC, FPC) Used?
FFC:
Connection between the printer head and motherboard, signal transmission between boards of home appliances (TV, audio).
Scenarios that are cost-sensitive and do not require complex bending.
FPC:
Display drivers and camera modules for precision devices such as smartphones and laptops.
Scenarios that require high-frequency folding or high-density wiring in automotive electronics and medical equipment.
4. Performance and Selection Considerations for Flat Flex Cables (FFC, FPC)
1) Commonality:
Lightweight material, small size, and support for high-speed signal transmission.
The temperature resistance range is usually -40℃~105℃, and some special models can be expanded.
2) Selection Factors:
FFC: Suitable for simple connection requirements with regular shapes and low costs.
FPC: Preferred when high-density wiring, complex bending, or multi-layer circuits are required.
5. What are the Development Trend of Flat Flex Cables (FFC, FPC)?
Lightweight and High-speed: The demand for FFC/FPC in 5G and IoT devices is growing, driving the iteration of thinner and higher-frequency transmission performance.
Integrated Design: FPC is developing towards multi-layer and high-precision etching, supporting more complex electronic system integration.