History Lesson: Paul Eisler and the Evolution of the Printed Circuit Board

The printed circuit board (PCB) lies at the heart of virtually every modern electronic device. From mobile phones and medical equipment to automobiles and computers, PCBs are indispensable. But few know that the story of this key technology began over 80 years ago with Austrian engineer Paul Eisler, whose work laid the foundation for today’s electronics industry.

Paul Eisler – Inventing the Future

In the 1930s, Paul Eisler created the first functional printed circuit, integrating it into a radio. His approach streamlined what had previously been a tedious, manual wiring process, enabling faster and more efficient production. Though groundbreaking, Eisler’s invention wasn’t immediately adopted. It wasn’t until the 1950s — especially in defense and aerospace — that the industry recognized its potential for building compact, reliable circuitry.

From Factory Floors to Living Rooms

By the 1970s, PCBs had moved beyond military applications and into consumer electronics. Devices like calculators, VHS players and early home computers began relying on this scalable, cost-effective circuit technology. One key milestone was the development of multilayer boards — multiple circuit layers stacked within a single unit. This advancement allowed for more complex functionality in increasingly compact designs, ushering in the age of electronic miniaturization.

The 1980s–90s: Compact Power, Automated Production

The electronics boom of the 1980s introduced Surface Mount Technology (SMT), allowing components to be placed directly onto the surface of the board. This made devices smaller, faster to assemble, and more affordable to produce — a perfect match for growing consumer demand. New materials like FR-4, a tough fiberglass-based laminate, became the go-to substrate for their durability and thermal resistance.

By the 1990s, High-Density Interconnect (HDI) technology took things further. Smaller traces and densely packed connections allowed engineers to build powerful yet compact electronic systems, satisfying the rapidly growing appetite for performance and portability.

The Modern PCB – Layered Innovation in the 21st Century

Today’s PCBs are marvels of engineering. Some high-performance boards now contain more than 20 layers, powering servers, smartphones and life-saving medical equipment. Innovations like flexible and rigid-flex PCBs have opened doors for wearables and implantable devices. At the same time, sustainability has become a key priority — with recyclable materials, efficient manufacturing and local sourcing gaining importance across the supply chain.

From Eisler to bee connect – A Legacy of Efficiency

Paul Eisler’s invention didn’t just shape electronics — it reshaped how we build them. At bee produced, we carry that legacy forward. With bee connect, EMS companies can digitize and streamline every step of their customer collaboration, from the initial inquiry to production. It’s all about clarity, speed and efficiency — the very same goals that drove Eisler’s original breakthrough.

The future of PCBs will be flexible, miniaturized and more sustainable than ever. And with bee connect, you’re always one step ahead — connected, efficient and ready to build what’s next.