FAQ on Compliances
Is there any extra charge for Lead-Free compliance boards?
The cost of the boards may vary depending on the complexity of the design, the number of layers, etc. The cost of Organic Solderability Preservatives (OSP) will be similar to that of Hot-Air Solder Levelling (HASL). The cost of Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG) will be higher than OSP.
Is there any difference in fabrication capabilities between Lead-Free compliance boards and non Lead-Free boards?
The Lead-Free compliance boards will have the same fabrication capabilities as the non Lead-Free boards.
What types of materials are used for Lead-Free compliance boards?
| Materials | Concentration Level | |
| FR4 (High Temp) | Tg 170°C, Td 260°C CTE z-axis 140ppm/°C (Ambient - 288°C) | Dk=4.29@1 GHz Df=0.014@1 GHz |
| BT/EPOXY | Tg 185°C, Td 260°C CAF Resistance CTE z-axis 140ppm/°C (Ambient - 288°C) | Dk=3.9@1 GHz Df=0.009@1 GHz |
| Polyimide | Tg 260°C, Td 288°C CTE z-axis 55ppm/°C (Ambient - 288°C) | Dk=4.2@1 GHz Df=0.0141 GHz |
Does Additive Circuit need a longer process time to fabricate Lead-Free compliance boards than non Lead-Free boards?
The process time for the boards may vary depending on the complexity of the design, the number of layers, the type of finish, etc.
Can Additive Circuit produce small quantity (prototype) orders that are Lead-Free compliance?
We will provide support to small quantity prototype orders that are Lead-Free compliance.
Can Additive Circuit provide a declaration of conformity for Lead-Free compliance boards?
A Certificate of Conformance (COC) will be given to state our product meets RoHS requirements.
Is there any difference between ENIG and Electrolytic Hard Gold?
Gold is plated by means of chemical deposition in ENIG process while electric current is used in Electrolytic Hard Gold process. The gold thickness of ENIG is limited between 2-6 micro inches.
What is the shelf life of Lead-Free compliance boards?
| Final Finish | Shelf Life |
| Organic Solderability Preservatives (OSP) | 6 Months |
| Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG) | 12 Months |
| Electrolytic Hard Gold/Nickel | 12 Months |