Frequently asked questions

What do you need for a quotation? +–

Production data as Gerber (RS-274X) or ODB++ including drill data, the quantities for samples and series, the intended stack-up, the surface finish, the acceptance class and your target date. If something is missing we will ask, which usually costs a day.

How long does a quotation take? +–

Within 48 hours for a complete enquiry, and often the same working day. What extends it is missing data or a build that needs a feasibility check — in which case you hear that within the 48 hours rather than at the end of a week of silence.

Can I get a quote without final data? +–

Yes. Outer dimensions, layer count, material class and quantity are enough for a first assessment, and we will tell you which parameter is driving the price most. It will be indicative rather than binding.

What are your minimum quantities? +–

There is no hard minimum, but the economics change sharply below a few square metres of panel. For prototypes we say plainly when the setup dominates the price, so you can decide whether to wait and combine builds.

Do you do prototypes and series? +–

Both, and preferably the same board through both. The value of running the prototype with us is that the series build is then already qualified — a prototype from elsewhere has to be re-qualified anyway.

Which data formats do you accept? +–

Gerber RS-274X and ODB++ are both fine; ODB++ carries netlist and stack-up information so there is less to clarify. Add a fabrication drawing with the stack-up, finish, class and any impedance requirement — those belong in the drawing, not in the email.

Do you check my data before production? +–

Always, and before tooling rather than after. If a build-up will not hold or an annular ring falls below standard you hear it as a specific query, not a generic rejection.

Will you change my data without asking? +–

We apply etch compensation and panel-related adjustments as a matter of course — those are production parameters. Anything that changes your design is raised as a query and needs your approval.

Can you calculate the stack-up for me? +–

Yes, and for impedance-controlled work we prefer to. Send target impedances, layer assignment and layer count; you get a calculated build back for approval before tooling.

What is the most common data problem? +–

Undersized pads. Designers set the pad first and then shrink the drill to fit, which drops the annular ring below the IPC standard. Pad diameter should be the finished hole plus at least 0.35 mm.

FR-4 or High-Tg? +–

Three triggers for High-Tg: more than about eight layers, more than two lead-free solder cycles, or sustained operation above roughly 110 °C. Any one of them makes the 10 – 20 % surcharge good value, mostly because of reduced z-axis expansion rather than temperature.

Why is my board warping? +–

Almost always build-up asymmetry or uneven copper distribution. Both are fixed in the stack-up rather than in production. Send the intended stack and we will flag it before tooling.

When do I need HDI? +–

Once a BGA drops below 0.5 mm pitch there is usually no conventional escape route. Above that, HDI is an optimisation — worth it when it saves layers or board area, which it often does.

Rigid-flex or semi-flex? +–

Semi-flex if the board is folded once at assembly and then stays put; it costs roughly a third of the rigid-flex price. Real polyimide flex as soon as the bend repeats in service.

Which surface finish should I pick? +–

ENIG for anything below 0.5 mm pitch or with multiple reflow cycles. HASL where pitch allows and cost drives. Immersion silver for RF. OSP only for high volume assembled immediately.

Class 2 or Class 3? +–

Class 2 covers most industrial and consumer work. Class 3 tightens annular ring and barrel copper acceptance and is normal for automotive safety, medical and aerospace. It changes the acceptance criteria, not the design.

Are the boards electrically tested? +–

Yes, 100 % electrical test on every board as standard. Microsection reports for barrel quality and plating thickness are available per lot on request.

Which certificates do you hold? +–

ISO 9001 and IATF 16949-oriented processes, with the automotive and medical certifications held at plant level. We are deliberately specific about which certificate sits where — that distinction comes out in an audit anyway.

Can you support PPAP? +–

Yes, at the level your customer requires. We assemble the documentation package with you rather than handing over raw data.

What happens if a delivery is defective? +–

A structured 8D with containment first, then root cause and corrective action. Because our own QA team is in the plant, the root cause investigation happens where the process is rather than by email.

What are typical lead times? +–

It depends on the build. A standard multilayer runs shorter than an HDI board with three lamination sequences, and every additional drill and press cycle adds days. We quote the real figure including freight rather than the plant figure.

Sea or air freight? +–

Sea freight delivered as standard, air freight ex-works on request. For series parts, buffering from our German warehouse is usually cheaper than repeatedly paying for air.

Can you hold stock for us? +–

Yes. We have our own warehouse infrastructure in Germany, so series call-offs can be buffered locally rather than waiting on a container.

How do you handle a material going obsolete? +–

You get a change notification and a proposed equivalent with the data to support re-qualification. What does not happen is a silent substitution.

Do you deliver outside Germany? +–

Yes, across Europe. Tell us the delivery terms you work to and we will quote against them.

Why are high-current PCBs important in electromobility? +–

Battery management systems (BMS) and high-performance inverters require strong copper layers (up to 400 µm) to safely conduct high currents.

Why should I use Rogers PCB instead of FR-4? +–

Rogers PCB offers significantly better high-frequency performance, lower losses, and a more stable dielectric constant - ideal for RF, microwave & 5G applications.

Which Rogers PCB models are best suited for high-speed data transfer? +–

The Rogers RO4000® series and RT/duroid® series are perfect for high-speed and high-frequency applications.

What are the maximum available copper thicknesses for Rogers PCBs? +–

We offer copper thicknesses from 0.5 oz to 6 oz, depending on application requirements.

How do you protect automotive PCBs from environmental influences? +–

Through conformal coating, special solder masks, and selective protective coatings, the circuit board is protected against moisture, dust, and corrosion.

What certifications must automotive PCBs meet? +–

Our PCBs meet IATF 16949 (automotive standard), IPC-6012 Class 3, and AEC-Q200 for electronic components.

How do electromagnetic interferences (EMI) affect automotive PCBs? +–

Modern vehicle systems contain many high-frequency components. Optimized ground planes, differential signal lines, and EMC design guidelines minimize interference.

Which PCB technologies are best suited for sensors? +–

Depending on the application, HDI, flexible PCBs, RF-PCBs & multilayer designs are particularly well-suited for sensor technology.

How do you protect sensor PCBs from environmental influences? +–

Through conformal coating, protective varnishes, and encapsulated PCB technologies, sensors can be protected against moisture, dust, and temperature.

What materials are suitable for sensor circuit boards? +–

For precise sensor applications, we use FR-4, polyimide, Rogers, PTFE, & metal-core PCBs depending on thermal & electrical requirements.

What special requirements do sensor PCBs have in the automotive industry? +–

Automotive sensors must withstand high temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference, hence high Tg materials & EMC-optimized layouts are used.

Are flexible PCBs suitable for sensors in wearables? +–

Yes, flex and rigid-flex PCBs are ideal for wearable sensors as they are space-saving, lightweight, and bendable.

Why is thermal management important for LED PCBs? +–

LEDs lose a significant portion of their energy as heat. Without effective cooling, this can significantly shorten their lifespan and reduce light output.

What materials are used for LED PCBs? +–

The most common materials are aluminum (MCPCB), copper & FR-4 with special thermal conductivity.

Which surface finishes are suitable for LED PCBs? +–

ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) and HASL (Hot Air Solder Leveling) offer the best combination of durability and electrical conductivity.

Are flexible LED PCBs suitable for movable applications? +–

Yes, flexible LED PCBs are perfect for curved surfaces, architectural solutions & portable lighting systems.

What copper thickness is required for high-power LEDs? +–

For high-current LEDs, thicker copper layers (35 µm to 400 µm) are recommended to optimize current flow and ensure uniform heat distribution.

Why are special materials required for radar PCBs? +–

Standard FR-4 has higher losses that negatively impact radar range and signal quality. Therefore, Rogers, PTFE, Isola & Taconic are used.

What frequencies do radar PCBs support? +–

We manufacture radar PCBs for 24 GHz (short-range radar), 77 GHz (automotive), & 120 GHz (millimeter-wave applications).

What design features are important for radar PCBs? +–

Controlled impedance for uninterrupted signal transmission, multilayer structures for complex high-frequency circuits, special routing & ground planes to minimize EMC interference.

How do you protect radar PCBs from environmental influences? +–

Our PCBs are equipped with conformal coating, special protective varnishes & encapsulated modules to protect them from temperature, moisture, and dust.

What radar PCBs are necessary for autonomous driving? +–

Modern vehicles use 77 GHz radar PCBs with multilayer technology for vehicle detection, lane keeping, & emergency braking systems.

What materials are best suited for industrial circuit boards? +–

High-quality materials such as FR-4 High-Tg, polyimide, Rogers, PTFE, and metal-core PCBs are ideal for industrial applications.

Why are heavy copper PCBs important in power electronics? +–

With copper thicknesses up to 400 µm, they enable the safe operation of high-current applications, switching power supplies & power converters.

How do you protect industrial PCBs from moisture & dust? +–

Through conformal coating, special protective varnishes & hermetic encapsulation techniques, PCBs can be protected from environmental influences.

What are the requirements for industrial PCBs? +–

Our industrial PCBs meet strict IPC-A-600 & IPC-6012 Class 3 standards for high-performance applications.

Are flexible PCBs suitable for Industry 4.0? +–

Yes, rigid-flex PCBs & flexible circuits are perfect for smart automation systems, IoT sensors & networked machine controls.

What advantages does aluminum nitride (AlN) have over aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃)? +–

AlN has significantly higher thermal conductivity (up to 200 W/mK), making it ideal for high-performance applications.

What thicknesses can ceramic PCBs have? +–

We offer ceramic substrates from 0.25 mm to 2.0 mm, depending on the application.

What metallization options are available for ceramic PCBs? +–

We offer copper, silver, gold & other metals, depending on conductivity and soldering requirements.

Why should I use a copper-based PCB instead of an aluminum PCB? +–

Copper has up to twice the thermal conductivity of aluminum and allows for better current-carrying capacity.

What copper thicknesses are available? +–

We offer copper thicknesses from 35 µm to 400 µm, depending on current and heat management requirements.

Are copper-based PCBs more expensive than conventional FR-4 PCBs? +–

Yes, copper PCBs are more expensive, but they offer significantly improved thermal and electrical conductivity, making the investment worthwhile in the long run.

How often can a semiflex PCB be bent? +–

Semiflex PCBs are designed for a limited number of bending cycles (typically 10-15), while flex PCBs are suitable for frequent bends.

How does a semiflex PCB differ from a rigid-flex PCB? +–

Semiflex PCBs have limited bendability in specific areas, while rigid-flex PCBs offer permanent flexibility across multiple areas.

What bending radii are possible with semiflex PCBs? +–

The minimum bending radius depends on the material thickness, but typically ranges from 5 to 15 mm.

Why should I use Isola PCB instead of standard FR-4? +–

Isola PCBs offer better high-frequency performance, lower signal losses, and higher thermal stability than standard FR-4.

Which Isola laminates are best suited for high-speed data transmission? +–

The Isola Tachyon 100G & I-Tera MT40 series are specially designed for high-speed data processing.

What copper thicknesses are available for Isola PCBs? +–

We offer copper thicknesses from 0.5 oz to 6 oz, depending on the specific requirements.

Why are halogen-free PCBs better for the environment? +–

They contain no toxic flame retardants, reduce emissions, and improve recyclability.

Are there performance differences between standard & halogen-free FR-4 PCBs? +–

Yes, halogen-free materials often have better thermal stability & improved electrical properties.

What standards do your halogen-free PCBs meet? +–

Our circuit boards comply with RoHS, REACH & UL94 V-0 flammability ratings.

When should I use a high Tg PCB instead of a standard FR-4 PCB? +–

When operating temperatures regularly exceed 130°C or better mechanical stability is needed, high Tg PCBs are the better choice.

Which materials have the highest Tg? +–

Polyimide PCBs offer the highest heat resistance with a Tg of up to 250°C.

Are high Tg PCBs more expensive than standard FR-4? +–

Yes, high Tg materials are somewhat more expensive, but they offer significantly higher durability & reliability, saving costs in the long term.

What is the main advantage of polyimide over FR-4? +–

Polyimide offers higher temperature resistance, better mechanical properties, and more flexibility than FR-4.

Are polyimide PCBs suitable for flexible applications? +–

Yes, polyimide is often used for flexible PCBs & rigid-flex PCBs.

How many layers are possible with polyimide PCBs? +–

We manufacture single-layer to multilayer polyimide circuit boards, depending on application requirements.

What is the difference between standard FR-4 and high Tg FR-4? +–

Standard FR-4 has a glass transition temperature of about 130°C, while high Tg FR-4 is better suited for high temperatures with 170–180°C.

How many layers are possible with FR-4 PCBs? +–

We offer multilayer FR-4 PCBs with up to 40 layers for high-performance applications.

What copper thicknesses are available? +–

Our standard copper thicknesses range from 0.5 oz to 6 oz, with thicker copper layers available on request.

What is wire bonding? +–

Wire bonding is a manufacturing process that uses extremely fine wires to securely connect semiconductor devices to circuit boards.

What materials are used in wire bonding? +–

Gold and aluminum are often used because they offer excellent electrical conductivity and durability.

What are the benefits of wire bonding in PCB manufacturing? +–

Wire bonding enables precise, cost-efficient connections and improves the electrical and mechanical stability of modern electronic systems.

What are vias in circuit boards? +–

Vias are small, conductive holes that electrically connect different layers of a circuit board.

How are vias manufactured? +–

Vias are manufactured through a multi-step process of drilling and subsequent copper plating.

What role do vias play in signal transmission? +–

Vias ensure stable signal transmission between layers and minimize signal losses and interference.

How do vias contribute to heat dissipation? +–

By distributing heat between layers, vias support effective thermal management of the circuit board.

What is via plugging? +–

Via plugging refers to the intentional sealing of vias to improve isolation and avoid potential manufacturing issues.

Why is via plugging important for PCB designs? +–

It ensures a flat surface and prevents unwanted leakage currents, increasing the reliability of the end product.

How does via plugging improve isolation? +–

By sealing the vias, unwanted electrical connections are prevented, leading to better isolation and stability.

What is meant by surface coating? +–

Surface coating involves applying special materials to improve solderability and protect the circuit board.

What methods are available for surface coating? +–

Common methods include HASL, ENIG, and OSP, each offering specific advantages in solderability and durability.

How does a good surface coating improve PCB performance? +–

A high-quality coating protects against corrosion, improves solderability, and contributes to a prolonged lifespan of the board.

What is PCB controlled impedance? +–

PCB controlled impedance refers to the precise control of trace impedances to ensure consistent impedance values and minimize signal loss.

How is impedance controlled in circuit boards? +–

By precise calculations of trace geometry and selection and distribution of materials, consistent impedance is ensured.

Why is controlled impedance important? +–

A constant impedance minimizes signal reflections and losses, which is crucial in high-frequency applications.

What techniques are used for impedance control? +–

Advanced design and manufacturing techniques are used to precisely tune traces and employ special materials.

What are microvias? +–

Microvias are extremely small vias used in high-density PCB layouts to save space.

How do microvias differ from conventional vias? +–

Microvias are smaller and often made using laser drilling techniques, making them ideal for complex designs.

What advantages do microvias offer in dense PCB layouts? +–

Microvias allow for higher wiring density and improve signal quality through short connection paths.

What is an IC substrate? +–

An IC substrate is a specialized circuit board material serving as a stable base for integrated circuits.

How does an IC substrate support integrated circuits? +–

With optimal thermal and electrical properties, substrates maximize the performance and reliability of integrated circuits.

What characteristics distinguish high-quality IC substrates? +–

High-quality IC substrates offer precise dimensions, excellent heat dissipation, and stable electrical properties, essential for demanding applications.

What are high-frequency PCBs? +–

High-frequency PCBs are specially designed to transmit signals at very high frequencies with minimal losses.

What challenges exist in high-frequency designs? +–

Challenges include minimizing signal reflections, controlling impedance, and optimizing thermal management.

How is signal quality ensured in high-frequency PCBs? +–

Through precise trace routing, selection of suitable materials, and strict manufacturing processes, high signal integrity is ensured.

Which applications benefit from high-frequency PCBs? +–

Applications in telecommunications, radio, and high-speed data transmission benefit significantly from high-frequency PCBs.

What does heavy copper mean in circuit boards? +–

Heavy copper refers to PCBs with significantly thicker copper layers than standard boards, increasing current-carrying capacity.

How does heavy copper improve the performance of PCBs? +–

The increased copper thickness enables more efficient heat dissipation and lower electrical resistance, improving overall performance.

In which applications is heavy copper typically used? +–

Heavy copper is mainly used in high-current and high-power applications, such as power electronics and industrial controls.

What are blind and buried vias? +–

Blind and buried vias are special vias that connect only between outer and inner layers (blind) or exclusively internally (buried).

How do blind and buried vias differ from conventional vias? +–

Unlike standard vias running through the entire board depth, blind and buried vias are limited to specific layers, resulting in a cleaner layout.

What benefits do blind and buried vias offer in multilayer designs? +–

These technologies allow for more efficient use of board space and reduce electromagnetic interference, improving signal quality.

What sets Lexington® apart from other PCB manufacturers? +–

We not only offer PCB manufacturing at the highest quality level but also combine it with personal support, quick quote generation within 24-48 hours, and an optimized logistics solution with warehousing directly in Germany.

In which countries does Lexington® deliver PCBs? +–

Our production is globally oriented, and we deliver worldwide - with a focus on Europe, North America, and Asia. Thanks to air and sea freight, we ensure timely and flexible delivery.

How quickly will I receive a quote for my PCB inquiry? +–

You will receive a detailed quote from us within 24-48 hours, whether it's for prototypes, small series, or large series.

Does Lexington® offer express manufacturing for time-critical projects? +–

Yes! We offer express manufacturing and express delivery (via air freight) to reliably realize short-notice projects.

What quality standards does Lexington® meet? +–

Our manufacturing complies with international standards such as ISO 9001, IATF 16949, UL, and IPC Class 2 & 3. Additionally, all products undergo strict quality checks - including electrical tests, AOI, and X-ray inspection.

Does Lexington® have its own technical department? +–

Yes, we have an experienced CAM and quality team in Germany as well as a technical team directly on-site in China that oversees and optimizes manufacturing processes.

What materials and technologies does Lexington® offer? +–

We process a variety of materials: FR-4, High-Tg FR-4, Rogers, Polyimide, MCPCB, Ceramic, Isola, halogen-free substrates, and many more. Technologies such as HDI, blind/buried vias, rigid-flex, heavy copper & impedance control are also part of our portfolio.

How does Lexington® ensure product quality? +–

We have our own quality manager on-site in Asia, allowing us to intercept potential errors already in production and ensure the highest manufacturing quality. Additionally, we secure quality through comprehensive incoming goods inspections and electrical tests in Germany.

Can Lexington® implement special packaging and labeling requirements? +–

Yes, we offer customized packaging solutions, ESD protection, and customer-specific labels for traceability, serial numbers, or special logistics requirements.

Is there a minimum order quantity at Lexington®? +–

No, we produce individual pieces & prototypes as well as medium and large series, always adapted to the needs of our customers.

What does Lexington® offer in the field of warehousing? +–

We have our own warehousing capacities in Germany, allowing us to provide just-in-time deliveries, safety stocks, and flexible calls for series customers.

Does Lexington® support design optimization (DFM check)? +–

Absolutely! Our technical team reviews all layout data as part of a free DFM check to ensure optimal manufacturing without later issues.

What surface finishes are available at Lexington®? +–

We offer a wide range: ENIG, ENEPIG, HASL, lead-free HASL, OSP, immersion silver, immersion tin, hard gold, and soft gold, depending on application requirements.

Does Lexington® also offer support with certifications for end products? +–

Yes, we support our customers by providing all necessary evidence, test reports, and material certificates for their own approvals and certifications.

How does communication with Lexington® take place? +–

Your personal contact person is directly reachable - without anonymous ticket systems. We quickly and individually handle technical inquiries, quote adjustments, or logistics adjustments.