FAQ - Lead Free PCBs

1. Are there any special layout concerns (spacing, etc.) when designing RoHS compliant printed circuit boards?
   
   No, unless you have impedance requirements that might change depending on the materials used.
   
   
2. What cost increase can be expected between “standard” and RoHS printed circuit boards?
   
   We are providing our lead-free solder finish at no additional charge to our customers. There are, however, increased price differentials associated with the higher temp laminates required by some lead-free component assembly as well as other final plating finishes that will be reflected in unit price if ordered by customer.
   
   
3. What additional language should be added to fabrication documentation to ensure that the PCBs will come back RoHS compliant?
   
   First, add a statement that either lists the 6 offending elements or “manufacture/fabricate to meet the EU RoHS Directive”.
   
   Second, state the type of material you need using the IPC-4101 spec sheets and list any tolerances you expect the material to meet.
   
   Or you could list a preferred laminate by manufacturer & name and add “or equivalent”.
   Ask for certification that the board is RoHS compliant and for traceable markings if they are not already present on the boards.
   
   The same requirements should be added to your purchase order.
   
   
4. Is there any increase in printed circuit board fabrication time with a RoHS requirement?
   
   This depends on the board type. Multi-layers will take more press time, but once into the production stream lead-free panels move equally with their counterparts. The type of final finish and its availability may affect manufacturing time.
   
   
5. Can Advanced Circuits do small quantity (proto-type) orders that are RoHS complaint?
   
   Yes, we will keep the availability of small quantity prototypes with lead free options.  If you need something today or tomorrow it would depend on your laminate and final finish requirements.
   
   
6. Can RoHS compliant “lead-free” soldered boards also be assembled using leaded solder? Will standard solder “stick” to lead-free solder without elevated heat?
   
   Yes leaded solder will solder to a lead free prepared pad. We have customers that have assembled lead free boards produced in our facility using leaded solder and “normal” processing temperatures. They have not experienced any problems and have not had to alter their processing parameters.
   
   
7. Is there a special marking on the boards that would indicate RoHS compliance?
   
   Advanced Circuits will not be using any lead-free symbols on the bare boards. Both IPC and JEDEC standards for marking, symbols and labels for identification of lead free assemblies, components and devices do not call for board level markings.
   
   
8. Would Advanced Circuits provide a Declaration of Conformity with each RoHS complaint board they order?
   
   Advanced Circuits is providing certificates of conformity that state; “The printed circuit boards manufactured for the above P.O. meet the requirements of the directive 2002/95/EC of the European Parliament – The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS).”
   
   This statement can be found in the comments section of our standard production certificate of conformity. A similar statement may be found on the packing slip for prototype boards produced using RoHS compliant processes.