Biomedical PCBs

The global Biomedical market is currently categorized as a high-growth sector, with valuations standing in the high $Billions. With the advent of AI and recent advancements in connected, implanted technologies, projections are set to reach the $Trillion mark within a few short years. 

Biomed manufacturing is now focused on technologies such as Implantable Devices & Wearables, Diagnostic & Imaging Equipment, Therapeutic & Surgical Apparatus and more. They rely heavily on PCB technology to enable the medical machines, specialized equipment and dedicated devices that are revolutionizing medicine and healthcare on a global scale.

Unique Solutions

Of the many biomed device breakthroughs on the market, we’ve chosen two that set a clear example of how Biomed technology and PCB technology combine to improve the lives of millions.

Neuromodulation Technology requires miniaturized PCBs to make precision electronic instrumentation such as Deep Brain Stimulation and other complex procedures possible. Using interventional treatments to modify nerve activity in the brain, Neuromodulation Technology treats neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and psychiatric disorders like depression and OCD. 

Cochlear Implant Technology uses external and internal electronic devices that bypass damaged parts of the inner ear to provide a sense of sound to people with hearing loss. Highly miniaturized PCBs enable a surgically implanted internal component with a receiver and an electrode array to be inserted into the cochlea. These minute transducers stimulate the auditory nerve to send signals to the brain. 

Our Solutions for Biomed Applications

PCB Technologies deliver cutting-edge capabilities all under one roof: Advanced PCB design, fabrication and miniaturization enabling super-miniaturized medical devices and other innovative medical technology for customers worldwide. Certification includes: IPC-A-610Class 3, ISO 13485, IEC 60601).

Miniaturization and High-Density Interconnect (HDI) 

• Compact Designs: HDI technology, which uses micro-vias, fine lines and denser component placement, is critical for developing smaller, less invasive devices like pacemakers, neurostimulators and hearing aids. Miniaturization improves patient comfort and compliance.
• Increased Functionality in Limited Space: HDI allows for more components to be packed into a smaller area (6-layer HDI board replacing a larger 8-layer standard board), integrating more features, like advanced sensors, processors or wireless communication modules; without increasing device size. 

Flexibility & Form-Factor Adaptability 

• Flexible PCBs: Made from materials like polyimide that bend and twist, making them ideal for wearable health monitors, smart patches or surgical instruments that must conform to body contours or fit into tight, irregular spaces.
• Rigid-Flex PCBs: Combining rigid sections for component stability with flexible sections for adaptability. They are used in complex devices like cochlear implants and robotic surgical tools, to improve overall reliability by reducing the number of interconnect points. 

Enhanced Performance & Reliability 

• Signal Integrity: Advanced PCBs and high-layer-count and HDI boards, are designed with controlled impedance and precise signal routing to minimize signal loss and electromagnetic interference (EMI); for high accuracy, high-frequency diagnostic imaging equipment like MRI and CT scanners.
• Durability & Environmental Resilience: The use high-performance materials and robust design practices ensures PCBs can withstand demanding conditions; moisture, chemicals, vibrations and extreme temperatures (as required for sterilization processes like autoclaving).
• Thermal Management: Specialized materials (metal core PCBs or polyimide with high thermal conductivity) and techniques like thermal vias, help dissipate heat in high-power or continuously operating devices; ensuring stable performance. 

Integration of Advanced Technologies

• IoT & AI Integration: PCBs use specialized chips and wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 5G/6G) to enable Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities for real-time remote patient monitoring and data collection. Data is used by AI and machine learning algorithms to assist in diagnostics and treatment plans.
• Lab-on-PCB: Advanced fabrication techniques are enabling “Lab-on-PCB” technology, which integrates microfluidics, sensors and actuators on a single board for rapid point-of-care diagnostics and biosensing applications. 

Biomed Devices & Equipment Using Advanced PCBs

Implantable & Wearable Devices: Require high-density interconnect (HDI), plus flexible and rigid-flex PCBs to be compact, lightweight and provide biocompatibility for long-term safe use in or on the body. 

• Pacemakers & Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs): Use miniature, high-reliability PCBs (HDI / flexible) for precise heart rhythm regulation and monitoring + low power consumption and longevity.
• Cochlear Implants & Neurostimulators: Rely on complex PCBs to process neural signals and deliver electrical stimulation, requiring high precision and resistance to body’s internal environment.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) & Insulin Pumps: Utilize compact, flexible PCBs for data processing, wireless communication (IoT integration) and reliable medication delivery, enhancing patient comfort and remote monitoring capabilities.
• Wearable Health Monitors: Smart patches, heart rate monitors and blood pressure cuffs incorporate flexible PCBs that conform to the body’s shape, enabling real-time, continuous health tracking. 

Diagnostic & Imaging Equipment: These systems require high-performance, multilayer PCBs capable of high-speed data processing and signal integrity to produce accurate and detailed results. 

• MRI, CT & X-ray Scanners: Use rigid, multi-layer and high-frequency PCBs to manage complex signal processing, control systems and high-resolution image rendering for precise diagnostics.
• Ultrasound Equipment: Portable and handheld ultrasound devices rely on advanced PCBs for processing high-frequency signals, enabling clear imaging and mobile diagnostics.
• Blood Analyzers & Lab-on-PCB Devices: Laboratory equipment incorporates specialized PCBs to automate complex testing processes, integrating microfluidic channels and sensors for fast, accurate analysis. 

Therapeutic and Surgical Devices: Advanced PCBs provide the precision and control needed for life-support systems and complex surgical procedures. 

• Ventilators & Respiratory Equipment: Depend on reliable PCBs for the precise control and monitoring of gas flow and pressure in critical care situations.
• Infusion Pumps: Utilize PCBs to enable accurate and safe delivery of fluids and medications to patients.
• Robotic Surgical Systems: Sophisticated surgical robots use high-precision PCBs with low latency and high-density routing to control delicate movements and communication between surgeon’s console and robotic arms; ensuring surgical accuracy. 

Biomed & Beyond

As highly experienced All-in-One solution providers, PCB Technologies brings both agility and ability to the table; meeting each new technology and innovation that hits the market head on. Whether in design, development or production, we gear-up with the most advanced machinery, sophisticated instrumentation and complex processes, to answer the needs of our customers for today and tomorrow. 

Custom solutions are a big part of our portfolio, so before you start your next project, contact one of our experts in HDI, Rigid, Rigid-flex, Miniaturization and more. Find out how our solutions can work for you.