When I'm doing small runs or singles of PCBs I use a manufacturer who pools many small batches into one large one to save costs. Consequently, some minor aspects (like the color of the solder mask and silk screen) cannot be specified because you'll get whatever the main batch gets you're hitching your ride on.Another unspecified aspect is the finish: They'll either do tin-plated or gold-plated. Usually it's tin-plated, but today I got a gold-plated board.Wowwwy. Talk about spiffy.But aren't there issues with the gold dissolving in solder or some such thing? I seem to recall that tin and gold form some unfavourable alloy. Personally I don't care because I dont have millions of units in the field to watch out for, but if these issues are extant, why gold-plate a PCB in the first place?robert

"Robert Latest"** Gold plated connectors that require normal, 60/40 SnPb, solder to use have been around for many DECADES. No problems in sight as of 2007.Gold plate is just soooo easy to solder........ Phil

Gold-PLated PCBs?

Feb 22, 2007 22 Replies

Rate this thread:

Robert Baer 19 years ago

I assure that not only Brasso is abrasive, the other additives tend to accelerate oxidation, etc unless cleaned extremely thoroughly.

Vote

jasen 19 years ago

It is. it's wax, abrasive powder, and some sort of solvent (kerosene?)

they make "Silvo" for that.

not sure what's in it.

Bye. Jasen

Vote

Robert Latest 19 years ago

Yes they do! It's a shame to have to populate that nice board. But the vias are still nice and golden.

robert

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required