[email protected] Contact Us: +86 0755-2871-6564 Chinese Customized PCBs & electronic components in one place
banner
Blog

What is a 6-Layer PCB Stackup?

2025/5/28 11:09:40

In today’s electronics, 6-layer PCBs are very useful for making more advanced circuits. As products get smaller and faster, engineers need more layers to make everything work well. A 6-layer PCB gives enough space and keeps signals working properly. This article explains what a 6-layer PCB is, how it is made, and why people use it. It is written for engineers, designers, and buyers who want simple and clear information.


Table of Contents:


What a 6-Layer PCB Looks Like

A 6-layer PCB has six copper layers. These layers are separated by insulation, which keeps the layers from touching each other. Each layer has a job. Usually, the board has a top signal layer, a ground layer, two middle signal layers, a power layer, and a bottom signal layer. This setup helps reduce noise and keeps signals steady. It is a good choice for fast circuits and mixed-signal boards.


Why Use a 6-Layer PCB

A 6-layer PCB is better than a 4-layer one because it helps keep signals clean and gives more space for wiring. The extra layers let you route more lines. The ground and power layers help reduce noise and give smooth paths for signals. This kind of board gives good results at a lower cost than 8- or 10-layer boards, so many people choose it.You can submit your request on our procurement page


A Simple 6-Layer Layout

A common way to build a 6-layer PCB is like this: top signal layer, ground layer, two inner signal layers, power layer, and bottom signal layer. Putting the middle signal layers between ground and power layers helps stop signals from mixing with each other. This also helps keep the signal quality stable. This layout works well for boards with many small pins, like BGA or FPGA chips.


Easy Rules for Better Design

To keep signals clear and avoid problems, put signal layers next to a ground or power layer. This helps stop signal errors. Do not put two signal layers next to each other without a ground or power layer between them. If you are not familiar with circuits, you can take a look at GND design.That could cause noise.

If your board has both analog and digital signals, keep them on different layers. This helps avoid mixing signals. Also, watch the line width and space between lines. This helps match the signal rules. If you have weak signals, try to keep them above a full ground layer.


GND design


Where 6-Layer PCBs Are Used

These boards are used in many devices. You can find them in fast computers, phones, car control units, smart devices, and machines in factories. They are good because they can handle both signals and power at the same time without causing problems.


Things to Watch Out for When Making the Board

Making a 6-layer board is harder than making a 2- or 4-layer one. The layers must line up exactly, or signals won’t work right. You also need to pick the right kind of holes (called vias). Some use full holes, while others use blind or buried ones, depending on how tight the space is.

The material between layers is also important. Better materials help signals move faster and keep the board working longer. If you work with a good PCB maker, they can help solve these problems early so the board will work well in the end.



Tips to Make Your Board Better

Put each signal layer next to a ground or power layer. This helps the signals return the right way and stay clean. Keep analog and digital parts away from each other. Use strong ground and power layers to carry both signals and power. Make sure your line widths and spaces are correct. Also, add small metal pieces or heat sinks near hot spots, and place holes in good spots to help remove heat.


Jinxinyang Technology

Jinxinyang Technology

We specialize in distributing electronic components and IC chip products. Our efficient custom services, accurate inventory, and fast delivery help you save time, effort, and cost.


FAQ

What applications are 6-layer PCBs suitable for?

6-layer PCBs are widely used in high-speed digital devices, communication modules, automotive electronic control units, IoT devices, and industrial automation systems because they can handle complex signal requirements.

Why choose 6-layer PCBs instead of 4-layer or 8-layer?

6-layer PCBs offer a good balance between cost and performance. Compared with 4-layer boards, 6-layer boards provide better signal integrity and electromagnetic interference (EMI) control; compared with 8-layer boards, 6-layer boards can provide similar electrical performance in many applications, but at a lower manufacturing cost.

Blog Recommendation

Copyright © 2022 Shenzhen Jinxinyang Technology Co., Ltd.