Types of Flex Circuits

Single-Layer Flex Circuit

• IPC 6013 - Type 1
• One conductive layer, either bonded between two insulating layers or uncovered on one side.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components, are optional.

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Double-Sided Flex Circuit

• IPC 6013, - Type 2
• Two conductive layers with an insulating layer between; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
• Stiffeners, pins, connectors, components are optional.

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Multi-Layer Flex Circuit

• IPC 6013 - Type 3
• Three or more flexible conductive layers with flexible insulating layers between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Plated through-holes provide connection between layers.
• Controlled impedance possible.

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Rigid-Flex Circuit

• IPC 6013 - Type 4
• Two or more conductive layers with either flexible or rigid insulation material as insulators between each one; outer layers may have covers or exposed pads.
• Rigid-flex has conductors on the rigid layers, which differentiates it from multi-layer circuits with stiffeners. Plated through-holes extend through both rigid and flexible layers (with the exception of blind and buried vias). Rigid-flex costs more than a standard circuit with stiffeners.