Metal core printed circuit boards (MCPCBs, also called IMS PCBs) are a type of printed circuit board that have a metal core layer in place of the traditional fiberglass or epoxy resin core. The metal core provides superior heat dissipation capabilities, making MCPCBs ideal for high-power LED applications, power electronics, and other applications that generate a lot of heat. The metal core layer can be made from aluminum or copper. The most commonly used metal is aluminum, due to its excellent thermal conductivity, light weight, and low cost.

The metal core layer is sandwiched between layers of dielectric material, usually a layer of thermally conductive material such as a ceramic-filled epoxy, and a layer of copper for the traces and electrical connections. The thickness of the metal core layer can vary depending on the specific application and the amount of heat that needs to be dissipated. MCPCBs offer several advantages over traditional PCBs, including improved heat dissipation, increased durability, and better thermal stability. They are also less prone to warping and cracking due to changes in temperature, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.