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    HDI Multilayer PCB Stackup Types and Their Unique Advantages

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    Tony Zh Yi
    ·July 29, 2025
    ·10 min read
    HDI Multilayer PCB Stackup Types and Their Unique Advantages
    Image Source: unsplash

    HDI multilayer PCB​ stackups are the foundation of modern electronics. Engineers choose hdi multilayer pcb​ stackups to achieve:

    • Compact device sizes, essential for smartphones and wearables

    • Enhanced performance through clearer signals and shorter routing paths

    • Increased reliability by reducing failure rates and supporting precise assembly HDI multilayer pcb​ technology enables circuits to be densely packed and operate at high speeds.

    Key Takeaways

    • HDI multilayer PCB stackups help make devices smaller and faster. They also make devices more reliable. These stackups let you fit more parts in less space. They help signals move better inside the device.

    • There are different HDI stackup types like 1+N+1, 2+N+2, and ELIC. Each type has its own level of difficulty and how many parts it can hold. Each type also gives different performance. You can pick the right type for your device.

    • LT CIRCUIT makes special HDI PCB solutions for you. They use advanced ways to build them. They check quality very carefully. Their experts help you get the best results. This makes sure your device works well and lasts long.

    HDI Multilayer PCB Overview

    HDI Technology

    HDI technology is very important for new electronics. LT CIRCUIT uses this advanced method to make high-density interconnect boards for many industries. HDI multilayer pcb​ technology lets engineers build small and powerful devices for today’s needs. The table below shows how HDI and traditional PCB technology are different:

    Characteristic

    HDI Multilayer PCB Technology

    Traditional PCB Technology

    Design Complexity

    Has many layers with complex patterns and circuits. Good for small, powerful devices.

    Usually has one or two layers. Easier design for bigger devices.

    Component Density

    High density with microvias, blind and buried vias. Makes smaller, lighter devices.

    Lower density. Works for simple, low-density uses.

    Signal Integrity & Performance

    Better because of shorter paths. Less signal loss and less electromagnetic interference.

    May have trouble keeping signals clear at high speeds.

    Manufacturing Process

    Uses laser drilling and special lamination. Costs more but works better.

    Uses regular etching and lamination. Easier and costs less.

    Design Flexibility

    More flexible with many layers and small size. Allows detailed designs.

    Not as flexible. Best for simple uses without size limits.

    Thermal Performance

    Gets rid of heat better because of materials and design.

    Normal heat control. Not as good at moving heat away.

    Mechanical Strength

    Stronger because of multilayer bonding and materials.

    Normal strength. Not as tough under stress.

    Size

    Smaller size is good for portable and tiny electronics.

    Bigger size. Not great for very small devices.

    LT CIRCUIT’s skill in HDI gives strong, high-quality pcb products for electronics, cars, and telecom.

    Stack-Up of HDI PCB

    The stack-up of hdi pcb sets the electrical and mechanical features of each board. Engineers pick the best stack-up to control impedance, lower crosstalk, and keep signals clear. Good stack-up design also helps with EMI and heat control. Material choices like special dielectrics and copper foils help with fast signals and flexibility. Microvias and extra lamination steps make things harder but allow more parts and better reliability. LT CIRCUIT uses careful stack-up plans and advanced making methods to make sure each multilayer pcb meets high standards.

    📈 The world market for HDI multilayer pcb​ is growing fast. This is because of more use in 5G, cars, and electronics.

    HDI Stackup Types

    HDI Stackup Types
    Image Source: unsplash

    1+N+1 Structure

    The 1+N+1 structure is the easiest HDI stackup. It has one build-up layer on each side of a core. Microvias link the outer layers to the core. There are no stacked microvias in this design. This setup helps make small layouts and fit many parts close together. Engineers pick this stackup when they need small size and good performance.

    Key features of 1+N+1:

    • One build-up layer on each side of the core

    • Microvias connect outer layers to the core

    • No stacked microvias

    Typical applications include:

    • Smartphones

    • Tablets

    • Wearable devices

    • MP3 players

    • GPS systems

    • Memory cards

    • Medical equipment

    This stackup helps make devices smaller and more advanced. It keeps signals clear by making the signal path shorter and lowering interference. LT CIRCUIT uses special lamination and microvia drilling to make 1+N+1 HDI multilayer pcb​. Their way makes sure each pcb is reliable and lines up right.

    2+N+2 Structure

    The 2+N+2 structure has two build-up layers on each side of the core. This design lets engineers fit more paths and make harder circuits. It does not use stacked microvias but uses blind and buried vias. Engineers use this stackup for devices with more connections and smaller parts.

    Key features of 2+N+2:

    • Two build-up layers on each side of the core

    • Blind and buried vias for interconnection

    • No stacked microvias

    Benefits:

    • Increased routing density

    • Improved signal integrity

    • Enhanced power distribution

    • Greater design flexibility

    Manufacturing considerations:

    • Sequential lamination process

    • Precise layer-to-layer registration

    • Strict microvia size and plating control

    • Careful material selection for thermal and electrical performance

    Typical applications:

    • Smartphones

    • PDAs

    • Game consoles

    • Digital cameras

    • Automotive electronics

    LT CIRCUIT uses strong materials and advanced lamination to make 2+N+2 HDI pcb. Their process meets rules for impedance control and microvia strength. The company’s skill makes sure each multilayer pcb works well every time.

    ELIC Stackup

    ELIC, or Every Layer Interconnect, is the most advanced HDI stackup. In this type, every layer is an HDI layer joined by stacked, copper-filled microvias. This lets engineers send signals between any two layers, so they can fit more paths and parts. ELIC does not need through-hole vias, so there is more space for routing and parts.

    Key features of ELIC:

    • All layers are HDI layers

    • Stacked copper-filled microvias connect every layer

    • Maximum routing density and design freedom

    Advantages:

    • Shorter interconnect paths for low-loss signal transmission

    • Supports high pin-count and fine-pitch components

    • Enables ultra-thin pcb designs

    Typical applications:

    • CPUs and GPUs

    • High-speed memory cards

    • Advanced mobile devices

    • High-performance computing systems

    LT CIRCUIT makes ELIC stackups with careful lamination and microvia filling. Their process allows for very thin lines and tight layer matching, which is needed for hard, high-density designs.

    Advanced HDI Stackups

    Advanced HDI stackups include types like 3+N+3, 4+N+4, and any-layer HDI. These have more build-up layers and may use both stacked and staggered microvias. Engineers use these for the hardest jobs, where lots of connections and tricky paths are needed.

    HDI Stackup Type

    Structure Description

    Typical Applications

    1+N+1

    One build-up layer per side, no stacked microvias

    Cell phones, MP3 players, GPS, memory cards

    2+N+2

    Two build-up layers per side, no stacked microvias

    Smartphones, PDAs, game consoles

    3+N+3, 4+N+4

    Three or four build-up layers per side, may include stacked microvias

    High-speed computing, telecom, military

    Any Layer HDI / ELIC

    All layers are HDI, stacked copper-filled microvias

    CPUs, GPUs, advanced mobile devices

    Key features of advanced HDI stackups:

    • Multiple sequential laminations

    • Stacked and staggered microvias

    • Fine line widths and thin cores

    • Enhanced signal layers and power distribution

    Benefits:

    • Maximum component density

    • Superior signal integrity

    • Flexible routing for complex circuits

    LT CIRCUIT follows IPC rules and uses a layer stackup manager to control impedance and routing. Their process supports thin traces, tight impedance, and advanced via types. The company’s skill in advanced HDI stackups gives strong performance for high-end electronics.

    🛠️ LT CIRCUIT’s skills meet or beat industry rules. Their process supports hard HDI stackups, exact impedance control, and advanced microvia work. This lets them give high-quality pcb solutions for any job.

    HDI Stackup Advantages

    Space and Density

    HDI stackups help save space and fit more parts on a board. Engineers can put many parts in small spaces. This is important for new devices like phones and tablets. Microvias and special layers let boards have lots of wires close together. This means products can be thinner and lighter but still work well.

    Metric

    Conventional PCB (Baseline)

    HDI Stackup Improvement

    Component Density

    100%

    Up to 400% (4x increase)

    Board Area

    Baseline

    Up to 40% reduction

    Routing Density

    Baseline

    12X to 20X higher

    Layer Count

    Up to 14 layers

    Reduced to 8 layers (6 fewer)

    Routing Space (via blind vias)

    Baseline

    30% more routing space

    Bar chart comparing HDI stackup and conventional PCB for component density, board area, routing density, layer count, and routing space.

    LT CIRCUIT uses strong materials like Megtron 6 and Panasonic R5775. These materials help the board work well, even when it is small. This makes hdi multilayer pcb​ good for phones, tablets, and other small electronics.

    Signal Integrity

    HDI stackups help keep signals clear in fast electronics. Engineers put signal layers next to ground or power planes. This helps signals travel safely and not bounce back. Controlled impedance design makes sure signals match at both ends. This stops signal loss and ringing.

    • Microvias and buried vias lower unwanted effects and keep signals strong.

    • Solid ground planes help stop signal problems and block interference.

    • Differential signaling and guard traces cut down on noise and crosstalk.

    • Shielding, like via stitching and metal shields, keeps EMI inside.

    • Thermal vias and good materials move heat away and keep signals steady.

    LT CIRCUIT picks materials with low loss, like Panasonic RF775 and Shengyi SF305C. These materials help signals stay strong and fast. The company’s skill in stackup and material choice makes every pcb work well.

    Manufacturing Flexibility

    Making hdi pcbs gives more ways to design and build boards. LT CIRCUIT uses special steps to make this possible:

    1. Laser drilling makes tiny microvias, as small as 20 microns. This helps fit lots of parts and connect layers easily.

    2. Sequential lamination lets engineers add layers and drill microvias one after another. This helps make complex stackups like 2+N+2 with good alignment.

    3. Via filling and plating make flat spots for parts and strong connections. This is important for via-in-pad designs.

    4. Laser Direct Imaging (LDI) draws fine lines and copper shapes for detailed circuits.

    5. Surface finishing like ENIG protects small parts and helps with soldering tiny pieces.

    🛠️ LT CIRCUIT uses new materials and methods to make their hdi boards strong and work the same every time.

    Engineers can pick from many stackup choices for different jobs. This flexibility helps with simple gadgets and also with big, powerful computers.

    HDI Stackup Comparison

    HDI Stackup Comparison
    Image Source: unsplash

    Key Differences

    Engineers notice big differences between hdi stackup types. The 1+N+1 hdi stackup has one build-up layer on each side of the core. This type is the easiest to design and costs the least. The 2+N+2 hdi stackup has more build-up layers. This lets engineers fit more paths and make harder circuits. ELIC and advanced hdi stackups, like 3+N+3, have the most density and best signal quality. These types use stacked microvias and can connect any two layers.

    Stackup Type

    Routing Density

    Signal Integrity

    Manufacturing Complexity

    Cost

    1+N+1

    Moderate

    Good

    Low

    Low

    2+N+2

    High

    Very Good

    Medium

    Medium

    ELIC/3+N+3

    Highest

    Excellent

    High

    High

    Making more layers and using more microvias makes things harder and costs more. Simple hdi stackups are quicker and easier to make. Advanced hdi stackups need more steps and special machines. This makes them cost more and take longer to finish.

    Tip: If you plan for easy building early, you can save money and keep your hdi pcb working well.

    Best-Use Scenarios

    Different hdi stackup types are best for certain jobs:

    • 1+N+1 hdi pcb is good for things like MP3 players, GPS units, and simple medical devices. It saves money and still works well.

    • 2+N+2 hdi pcb is used in smartphones, tablets, and car electronics. It helps make thin designs and fast devices.

    • ELIC and advanced hdi pcb stackups are for top uses like CPUs, GPUs, and smart car systems. These types give the best reliability and can fit the most parts.

    • Flexible-rigid hdi pcb designs are great for health monitors you wear and medical devices inside the body. They bend to fit shapes and keep strong connections.

    LT CIRCUIT makes each hdi pcb stackup with strong materials and careful checks. Their boards work for industries that need small size, strong parts, and high performance.

    Choosing LT CIRCUIT for HDI

    Custom Solutions

    LT CIRCUIT is special in the hdi market because they make custom solutions for each project. Their engineers talk with customers to design hdi multilayer PCB stackups that match what each person needs. They offer many ways to customize, such as:

    LT CIRCUIT engineers use advanced tools like laser drilling and sequential lamination. They can make complex hdi boards with up to 12 layers and very thin lines. Their team also helps with layout and picking the right materials, so each hdi board works well for things like 5G, medical, and aerospace.

    Quality and Support

    LT CIRCUIT checks quality at every step of making hdi boards. Their process uses:

    • Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) and X-ray checks to find problems

    • Real-time monitoring with AI tools to spot issues early

    • Skilled engineers watching each step of production

    • Following IPC rules for design and testing

    • Hard tests, like heating and stress tests

    • Checking suppliers for good raw materials

    The company has ISO 9001, ISO 13485, UL, and CE certificates. These show they care about quality and trust. LT CIRCUIT also gives great customer support, helping from design to delivery. Their strong record makes them a trusted choice for hdi multilayer PCB solutions around the world.

    Every HDI stackup type has its own special benefits. The 1+N+1 type works well for medium density boards. Advanced types like 3+N+3 give the best signal quality for hard designs. Picking the right stackup depends on signals, number of layers, and price. LT CIRCUIT’s team helps customers find the best and most reliable choice.

    FAQ

    What makes HDI multilayer PCB stackups different from standard PCBs?

    HDI multilayer PCB stackups have microvias and extra layers. This lets them fit more parts on the board. They also help signals move better than in standard PCBs.

    How does LT CIRCUIT ensure the quality of HDI PCBs?

    LT CIRCUIT uses special tools to check their boards. They test each board with strict rules. Their engineers watch every step to make sure the boards work well.

    Can LT CIRCUIT customize HDI stackups for unique project needs?

    Yes. LT CIRCUIT can make custom stackup designs and pick different materials. They also offer many finishes. Their team talks with clients to meet special needs.

    See Also

    A Guide To Common Stack-Up Designs In HDI Multilayer PCBs

    Evaluating Costs And Benefits Of Advanced HDI PCB Microvia Structures

    The Process Behind Designing And Producing HDI Any Layer PCBs

    Exploring Diverse Industry Uses For Multilayer Printed Circuit Boards

    Unveiling Cutting-Edge Techniques For HDI PCB Prototyping Now