What is Copper Weight

What is Copper Weight

Copper weight measures the copper thickness on a circuit board. It is typically expressed in ounces per square foot (oz/ft2) and indicates the overall amount of copper present in a specific layer of the PCB. The copper weight impacts the performance and functionality of the circuit board. Copper weight affects the current carrying capacity, durability, and thermal characteristics of the PCB. A higher copper weight indicates a thicker layer of copper, allowing for better conductivity and increased current carrying capabilities. On the other hand, a lower copper weight may be suitable for low-power applications or when space constraints are a concern.

The copper weight is specified in the design files, known as Gerber files, and is a critical parameter in the PCB fabrication process. Engineers must carefully consider the desired electrical characteristics, cost, and other design requirements when selecting the appropriate copper weight for a specific PCB application.