PC:seB colors refer to the visible solder mask coating applied during manufacturing. While green remains the industry standard (70%+ usage), alternative colors serve specific purposes:
Technical Differences by Color
- Green PCB
- Industry dominance: Optimal for automated optical inspection (AOI) with 30% higher contrast sensitivity
- Ergonomics: Reduces eye strain during manual inspection by 40% compared to black
- Cost efficiency: 15-20% lower production cost due to standardized pigments
- White PCB
- Premium aesthetic: 60% higher perceived value in consumer electronics
- Technical drawback: 25% lower trace visibility during rework
- Black PCB
- Thermal limitation: Not recommended for >85°C environments due to 12% higher heat absorption
- Conductivity: 8% lower than standard due to carbon additives
Manufacturing Process
Solder mask application occurs post-etching (Stage 7/10 in PCB fabrication). Color selection impacts:
- 5% variation in UV exposure time during patterning
- 3-7% difference in final hardness testing results
