Definition

PCB reliability encompasses the board's ability to function correctly over its intended lifetime under expected conditions. Key factors: material selection (Tg, Td, CAF resistance), design choices (annular ring, via reliability, thermal management), and manufacturing quality (plating thickness, cleanliness). IPC Class 3 specifies requirements for high-reliability applications. Testing includes thermal cycling, microsection analysis, and accelerated life testing. Reliability failures include barrel cracks, pad lift, CAF shorts, and solder joint fatigue. Designing for reliability costs more upfront but prevents field failures.