An Evaluation of Steinberg’s Rule

Paper number

IAC-07-C2.3.10

Author

Dr. S.M. Veenaranjini, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), ISAC, India

Coauthor

Narasimhaprasad N, India

Coauthor

Danabalan TL, India

Coauthor

VenkataRao B, Unknown

Coauthor

Year

2007

Abstract

In this paper we have carried out an evaluation of the Steinberg's rule (equation)  most commonly used for mechanical design of printed ciruit boards (PCBs). The evaluation is carried out in the context of modern  components such as Quad Flat Packs(QFPs) etc. The evaluation is carried out using Finite element method via large number of simulations covering component sizes, leadwire counts, lead wire geometries, board designs, boundary conditions  and component locations. 

The study shows that the Steinberg’s rule does give sound design of thin, large PCBs with small components. However it loses validity for thicker, stiffer boards and large components. The study also highlights that additional board design parameters such as  as boundary condition, thickness and young’s modulus have to be accounted for, in setting such a guideline.

Finally a modification to the equation is proposed, which accounts for more parameters such as board dynamic stiffness etc in addition to providing revised constants. 

Abstract document

IAC-07-C2.3.10.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-07-C2.3.10.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.