Can general prototyping boards handle up to 4-5A in current?

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SUMMARY

General prototyping boards, such as those referenced from MCM Electronics, are not designed to handle currents of 4-5A effectively. Breadboards are confirmed to be inadequate for such high currents due to their construction. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding copper plating thickness, specifically "1/2 ounce" or "1 ounce," which directly impacts current handling capabilities. For detailed specifications, an application note from National Semiconductor (AN-1229) provides essential insights into PCB trace current capacity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of prototyping board types and their limitations
  • Knowledge of copper plating thickness and its impact on current capacity
  • Familiarity with PCB design principles
  • Ability to interpret technical application notes
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specifications of prototyping boards from MCM Electronics
  • Learn about PCB trace current capacity using AN-1229 from National Semiconductor
  • Explore alternatives to breadboards for high-current applications
  • Investigate the implications of copper thickness in PCB design
USEFUL FOR

Electronics hobbyists, engineers designing prototypes, and anyone involved in high-current circuit design will benefit from this discussion.

atlbraves49
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So I'm fairly certain breadboards can't handle 4 amps, and pcb is a bit too expensive for our budget (and not really necessary), but can basic prototyping boards handle this kind of current?

something like this

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/21-4590&CAWELAID=220241326

?
 
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atlbraves49 said:
So I'm fairly certain breadboards can't handle 4 amps, and pcb is a bit too expensive for our budget (and not really necessary), but can basic prototyping boards handle this kind of current?

something like this

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/21-4590&CAWELAID=220241326

?

You can figure it out if you know the thickness of the copper plating (it's probably "1/2 ounce" or "1 ounce"). Here's an App Note that has a discussion starting on page 7 about the current handling capacility of PCB traces:

http://www.national.com/an/AN/AN-1229.pdf

.
 
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