What are FFC (Flat Flexible Cables)?
FFCs (Flat Flexible Cables) are composed of multiple flat conductors insulated by a layer of flexible plastic film, which is laid by straight wires. FFCs are available in a variety of specifications, such as 0.5mm, 1.00mm and 1.25mm. FFCs usually have a stiffener connected to the other side of the contact part and inserted into the connector. They are simple one-to-one connection jumpers and can be found on LCDs, motherboards, touch screens, cameras and various other devices.
What is an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit)?
FPC is a flexible printed circuit. FPCs are foldable flexible printed circuits, which are composed of a layer or multiple layers of copper wires with a polyester base layer. FPCs can have electronic components mounted to its traces and have overlapping traces.
What is the Difference Between a FFC and FPC?
FFCs and FPCs are often confused because they look very similar, they are both flat, and they both transmit data. However, they are very different.
1. FFCs must usually have straight-through conductors with 1 to 1 or 1-n output.
2. FPCs on the other hand can have a variety of outputs because they can be multi-layered and conductors cross each other. FPCs can also perform impedance control, which makes it a better choice for data cables such as LVDS. FPCs can also be designed to be curved and angled, not just rectangular.
Selecting using an FPC or FFC would depend on what application you will be using it for. We can help you select the right cable for your purposes.