Jan. 18, 2024
TIPS: PCB protection boards are mainly used for the protection of PCB
components and are commonly used for the protection of Subrack plug-in
boards.
As the demand for high-performance electronics continues to grow, printed circuit boards (PCBs) are becoming increasingly complex. Modern PCBs, especially in 3U and 6U formats commonly used in IEC 60297 subrack systems, now carry components on both sides. This high-density assembly increases the risk of physical damage during installation, removal, or maintenance—particularly in applications involving plug-in modules within 19” subracks.
To address this issue, engineers rely on PCB protective boards—mechanical shields that protect sensitive components from physical impact, abrasion, and environmental hazards. Among the various materials available for manufacturing these protective boards, polycarbonate (PC) has emerged as the preferred choice due to its superior balance of mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.
In the past, PCBs used in rack-mounted systems such as 3U or 6U plug-in cards typically featured components only on one side. The other side would host solder joints or connector pins, making them less vulnerable during handling. However, today’s compact electronics often require components on both sides of the board, creating new mechanical vulnerabilities.
During routine insertion and extraction of plug-in units from subracks, these delicate components can easily be scratched, bent, or even dislodged. Moreover, in rugged industrial or transportation environments, vibrations or misalignment during installation can cause unintentional contact with the subrack frame. Without proper protection, even minor contact can result in irreversible damage to critical circuitry.
To mitigate these risks, engineers design customized 3U and 6U PCB protection plates that act as mechanical guards for the PCB surfaces and edges.
The choice of PC (polycarbonate) for PCB protective boards is driven by a combination of performance, safety, and manufacturability. Often referred to as “transparent metal,” PC offers a unique combination of characteristics that are ideal for protective applications in electronic packaging:
Polycarbonate is renowned for its toughness. It is significantly stronger than other transparent plastics like acrylic, making it highly effective in absorbing mechanical shocks and protecting PCB components from external force during plug-in operations.
PC material can operate reliably within a wide temperature range—from -100°C to +130°C—without becoming brittle or deformed. This makes it suitable for both industrial and transportation environments, including railway electronics and automation systems.
As a non-conductive material, PC provides excellent dielectric performance, preventing accidental short circuits between conductive elements or chassis parts during installation or maintenance.
With light transmission up to 90%, PC is highly transparent. This allows engineers and maintenance personnel to visually inspect PCB assemblies without removing the protective cover—an advantage in high-reliability systems where downtime must be minimized.
PC maintains its shape and dimensions even under thermal stress, which is essential in tightly packed electronic systems. Additionally, PC can be easily molded through injection or extrusion processes, enabling cost-effective customization for specific subrack dimensions or component layouts.
PC is non-toxic and compliant with environmental regulations such as RoHS, making it safe for use in sensitive applications like medical electronics or aerospace systems.
The IEC 60297 standard defines mechanical structures for modular electronics systems, including 19-inch subracks and plug-in units. These subracks are widely used in telecommunications, data centers, industrial control systems, defense electronics, and railway infrastructure.
In such systems, PCB protective boards are mounted alongside or directly on plug-in PCBs to ensure that no component is exposed during handling or operation. The use of PC material in these protective boards adds an additional layer of reliability and resilience to the entire rack system.
To support system integrators, OEMs, and electronic design teams, RDEKONO offers a wide range of IEC 60297 subrack solutions that are fully compatible with custom-made PC protective boards. These subracks can be configured in 3U, 6U, or other formats, and can be delivered with optional shielding, grounding, or ventilation features as needed.
In addition to standard subrack products, RDEKONO provides a full suite of customization and support services to meet your unique enclosure and protection needs. From engineering consultation and material selection to rapid prototyping and batch production, our team ensures that your PCB protection solutions are optimized for performance, durability, and cost.
Whether you're designing for rugged transportation systems or sensitive telecom equipment, our PC-based protection panels and subrack solutions provide the safety and flexibility your project demands.
To explore how PC protective boards can enhance the safety and durability of your plug-in PCB systems, browse our latest IEC 60297 Subrack offerings or contact us through our support service page for a consultation.
Protect your components. Trust PC material. Trust RDEKONO.
Oct. 01, 2023
For PCB board of the subrack insertion and extraction, Provides assistance when pulled out.Composed of four parts: handle, scutcheon, printed board bracket, and shaft. Handle material: PC+GF20%, Fire retardant standard: UL94V1, printed board bracket material: die-cast zinc alloy surface nickel plating.
Oct. 08, 2023
The subrack does not have a series of profiles, and after receiving an order, it is usually customized and processed according to the drawings. Products from different customers and products of different specifications from the same customer all need to be redesigned and processed, resulting in higher costs;