Why Gold Plating is Used for PCB Gold Fingers

Introduction

Gold plating is essential for PCB gold fingers because it provides superior electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability. Not all plating methods are the same, and hard gold plating is commonly used.

1. Types of Gold Plating

There are two main types of gold plating for PCB fingers:

• Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG) – Cost-effective but less durable.
• Electroplated Hard Gold – High durability, used for frequent insertions.

2. Why Use Gold?

Gold is chosen for PCB fingers because it:

• Does not oxidize or corrode, ensuring longevity.
• Provides excellent conductivity, reducing signal loss.
• Withstands frequent wear and tear, making it ideal for high-use connectors.

3. Gold Finger Thickness

Gold fingers are typically plated with 3-50 microinches of gold, depending on the application.

Conclusion

Gold plating ensures high reliability and longevity in PCB connectors, making it the best choice for gold fingers in high-performance and frequently connected devices.