IPC-6011 Explained: The Foundation for IPC-6012 & PCB Performance Standards

When specifying PCB requirements, engineers often jump straight to IPC-6012 for rigid boards or IPC-6013 for flex circuits. But there’s a foundational document that underpins all these specifications: IPC-6011, the Generic Performance Specification for Printed Boards. Without understanding IPC-6011, you’re missing the framework that defines Class 1, 2, and 3 requirements and establishes the quality assurance provisions that every PCB must meet.

IPC-6011 serves as the parent document for the entire IPC-6010 series of performance specifications. Whether you’re procuring consumer electronics boards or building flight-critical aerospace assemblies, IPC-6011 establishes the baseline requirements that apply across all board types. This guide explains how IPC-6011 works, what changed in the 2025 revision, and how it integrates with technology-specific standards like IPC-6012.

What Is IPC-6011?

IPC-6011, officially titled “Generic Performance Specification for Printed Boards,” establishes the general requirements for printed boards and the quality and reliability assurance requirements that must be met for their acquisition. It serves as the foundation document that works in conjunction with technology-specific performance specifications.

IPC-6011 Standard Overview

Attribute	Details
Full title	Generic Performance Specification for Printed Boards
Current revision	IPC-6011A (February 2025)
Previous revision	IPC-6011 (July 1996)
Pages	~15 pages
Developed by	IPC Performance Standards Subcommittee
Supersedes	IPC-RB-276, IPC-SC-320, IPC-TC-500, IPC-ML-950C
Used with	IPC-6012 through IPC-6018

The key concept behind IPC-6011 is that it contains requirements common to all printed board types. Rather than repeating these generic requirements in every technology-specific document, IPC established this parent specification. When you call out IPC-6012 Class 3 on a purchase order, you’re automatically invoking IPC-6011 as well.

IPC-6011A: The 2025 Revision Update

After nearly 30 years without revision, IPC released IPC-6011A in February 2025. This update modernizes the specification to align with current industry practices and the latest revisions of the technology-specific documents.

Key Changes in IPC-6011A

Area	Update
Scope expansion	Now explicitly covers IPC-6012 through IPC-6018
Metric conversion	Updated rounding rules for metric to imperial conversion
Document references	Updated to current revisions of referenced standards
Quality provisions	Aligned with modern quality management practices
AI statement	Added explicit prohibition on AI data mining of IPC content

The 2025 revision maintains the same fundamental structure and class definitions but ensures compatibility with the latest versions of IPC-6012F, IPC-6013D, and other performance specifications in the 6010 series.

The IPC-6010 Document Series Hierarchy

IPC-6011 sits at the top of a document hierarchy designed to provide comprehensive coverage of all printed board technologies. Understanding this structure is essential for proper specification.

IPC-6010 Series Document Family

Standard	Board Type	Current Revision
IPC-6011	Generic (parent document)	IPC-6011A (2025)
IPC-6012	Rigid printed boards	IPC-6012F (2020)
IPC-6013	Flexible printed boards	IPC-6013D (2019)
IPC-6014	PCMCIA cards	IPC-6014
IPC-6015	MCM-L (organic multichip module)	IPC-6015
IPC-6017	Embedded passive devices	IPC-6017
IPC-6018	High frequency/microwave	IPC-6018C (2019)

How the Hierarchy Works

When you specify a printed board, you typically call out:

1. IPC-6011 – Generic requirements (automatically included)
2. Technology-specific document – IPC-6012, 6013, etc.
3. Performance class – Class 1, 2, or 3
4. Any addenda – ES (space), EM (medical), EA (automotive)

For example, calling out “IPC-6012 Class 3” on your fabrication drawing means the board must meet both IPC-6011 generic requirements and IPC-6012 rigid board requirements at Class 3 acceptance criteria.

IPC-6011 Performance Classes: Class 1, 2, and 3

One of the most important elements of IPC-6011 is the definition of three performance classes. These classes establish progressive levels of sophistication, functional performance requirements, and testing frequency.

Class Definitions

Class	Name	Description	Typical Applications
Class 1	General Electronic Products	Products where cosmetic imperfections are not important and primary requirement is function of completed assembly	Consumer electronics, toys, some computer peripherals
Class 2	Dedicated Service Electronic Products	Products where continued performance and extended life is required, but uninterrupted service is not critical	Industrial controls, communications equipment, business machines
Class 3	High Reliability Electronic Products	Products where continued performance or performance on demand is critical; equipment downtime cannot be tolerated	Life support, flight control systems, military, medical devices

Class Selection Responsibility

IPC-6011 clearly states that the user (customer) has the responsibility to specify the performance class required for each product in the contract or purchase order. The user shall also indicate any exceptions to specific parameters where appropriate.

Class Requirements Comparison

Requirement Area	Class 1	Class 2	Class 3
Inspection level	Reduced	Standard	Enhanced
Cosmetic acceptance	Liberal	Moderate	Strict
Testing frequency	Minimal	Standard	Extensive
Documentation	Basic	Standard	Full traceability
Process control	General	SPC recommended	SPC required

It’s important to recognize that there may be overlap of equipment categories across different classes. A computer used in a consumer application might be Class 1, while the same computer design used in a medical monitoring system would be Class 3.

General Requirements in IPC-6011

IPC-6011 establishes requirements that apply to all printed boards regardless of technology or class. These form the baseline that technology-specific documents build upon.

Dimensions and Tolerances

Specification	Requirement
Unit system	Metric (millimeters) primary; imperial in parentheses
System mixing	Single system required; do not intermix metric and inch
Rounding rules	Specific rules for decimal place rounding
Applicability	All dimensions apply to finished product only

Metric to Imperial Conversion Rules (IPC-6011A)

Metric Value	Imperial Rounding
Greater than 1.0 mm	Round to nearest 0.001 inch
Less than 1.0 mm	Round to nearest 0.0001 inch

These rounding rules help prevent measurement discrepancies when converting between unit systems during inspection.

Printed Board Procurement Documentation

IPC-6011 specifies what information must be included in procurement documentation to ensure the user receives the desired product.

Required Procurement Information

Element	Description
A	Title, number, issue, revision letter, and date of current specification
B	Specific exceptions, variations, additions, or conditions to specification
C	Part identification and marking instructions
D	Information for preparation for delivery, if applicable
E	Special tests required and frequency
F	Performance class (Class 1, 2, or 3)

Procurement Documentation Best Practices

When creating purchase orders or fabrication drawings, include:

Item	Purpose
IPC specification callout	e.g., “IPC-6012 Class 2”
Revision level	e.g., “IPC-6012F” or “latest revision”
Exceptions	Any parameters with different requirements
Test requirements	Special testing beyond standard
Acceptance criteria	Any additional inspection requirements

Clear procurement documentation prevents disputes and ensures both parties understand the quality expectations.

Quality Assurance Provisions

IPC-6011 establishes the quality assurance framework that governs printed board manufacturing and acceptance.

Test Equipment and Inspection Facilities

Requirement	Description
Calibration	All measuring equipment must be calibrated
Traceability	Calibration traceable to national standards
Environment	Inspection facilities must meet specified conditions
Personnel	Inspectors must be trained and qualified

Inspection of Product for Delivery

IPC-6011 defines the inspection requirements for product acceptance:

Inspection Type	Purpose
Visual inspection	Per IPC-A-600 acceptance criteria
Dimensional verification	Critical dimensions per drawing
Electrical testing	Continuity, isolation, impedance
Microsection analysis	When specified or for qualification

Statistical Process Control (SPC)

SPC Requirement	Application
Implementation	Per IPC-9191 guidelines
Process monitoring	Critical process parameters
Data collection	Ongoing trend analysis
Class 3 requirement	SPC generally required for Class 3

SPC implementation allows manufacturers to demonstrate process capability and may enable reduced inspection frequencies once processes are proven stable.

Reduction of Quality Conformance Testing

IPC-6011 provides a pathway for reducing testing frequency when manufacturers demonstrate consistent quality:

Condition	Reduction Allowed
Proven process history	Sample size reduction
SPC implementation	Reduced lot-by-lot testing
IPC-PC-90 compliance	Quality program recognition
Customer agreement	Skip-lot testing approval

IPC-6011 and IPC-6012: How They Work Together

Understanding the relationship between IPC-6011 and IPC-6012 is essential for anyone specifying rigid printed boards.

Document Relationship

Aspect	IPC-6011	IPC-6012
Scope	All printed boards	Rigid boards only
Class definitions	Defines Class 1, 2, 3	Applies class criteria
Generic requirements	Establishes baseline	References IPC-6011
Specific requirements	None	Detailed acceptance criteria
Visual standards	References IPC-A-600	Detailed requirements

What IPC-6012 Adds to IPC-6011

IPC-6012 Content	Coverage
Board types	Single-sided through complex HDI
Material requirements	Laminate, prepreg, copper, finishes
Dimensional tolerances	Hole sizes, annular ring, registration
Plating requirements	Copper, surface finish specifications
Visual acceptance	External and internal defects
Electrical requirements	Isolation, continuity, impedance
Environmental testing	Thermal stress, moisture resistance

IPC-6012 Addenda

IPC-6012 includes several addenda for specific industries:

Addendum	Application
IPC-6012ES	Space and military avionics (Class 3/A)
IPC-6012EM	Medical electronics
IPC-6012EA	Automotive electronics
IPC-6012DS	Defense and security applications

These addenda impose additional requirements beyond standard Class 3 for mission-critical applications.

Supplier Qualification and IPC-1710

IPC-6011 references IPC-1710 (Manufacturers’ Qualification Profile) for supplier assessment and qualification.

MQP Integration with IPC-6011

Element	Purpose
Self-declaration	Supplier documents capabilities
Process capability	Demonstrates ability to meet requirements
Quality program	Documents quality system implementation
Technology specifics	Details manufacturing capabilities

The completed IPC-1710 MQP provides a standardized profile of supplier capability that helps users assess whether a manufacturer can meet IPC-6011 requirements for their specific product class.

Certification and Training

IPC offers certification programs related to the 6010 series documents:

IPC Certification Programs

Certification	Focus
IPC-A-600 CIS	Certified IPC Specialist – bare board inspection
IPC-A-600 CIT	Certified IPC Trainer – bare board inspection
IPC-6012 Training	Understanding rigid board requirements

These certifications ensure personnel understand the acceptance criteria established by IPC-6011 and its related specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions About IPC-6011

What is the difference between IPC-6011 and IPC-6012?

IPC-6011 is the generic (parent) specification that establishes requirements common to all printed boards, including Class 1, 2, and 3 definitions, quality assurance provisions, and procurement documentation requirements. IPC-6012 is the technology-specific specification for rigid printed boards that provides detailed acceptance criteria for that board type. When you specify IPC-6012, you automatically include IPC-6011 requirements. Think of IPC-6011 as the foundation and IPC-6012 as the detailed building specifications for rigid boards specifically.

Do I need to purchase both IPC-6011 and IPC-6012?

For practical purposes, most users purchase IPC-6012 (or the relevant technology-specific document) as their primary specification. IPC-6011 provides the framework and class definitions, but the detailed acceptance criteria you’ll use for inspection are in IPC-6012. However, quality engineers and specification writers should have access to IPC-6011 to understand the complete quality system requirements. If you’re building a supplier qualification program or establishing quality procedures, IPC-6011 is essential reading.

How do I determine which class to specify?

Class selection depends on the end-use application and consequences of failure. Class 1 is appropriate when the product is disposable or cosmetic imperfections don’t matter. Class 2 suits most commercial and industrial products where reliability matters but momentary downtime is acceptable. Class 3 is required when failure could endanger life or mission, such as medical devices, aerospace, or military applications. When in doubt, discuss with your reliability engineering team and consider the cost of failure versus the cost of higher-class manufacturing.

What changed in IPC-6011A (2025)?

IPC-6011A is the first revision since the original 1996 release. The update modernizes the specification to align with current IPC-6012F, IPC-6013D, and other 6010 series documents. Key changes include updated metric conversion rules, revised document references, and alignment with modern quality management practices. The fundamental class definitions and quality assurance provisions remain consistent, ensuring backward compatibility while bringing the document current with industry practices.

Is IPC-6011 required for military and aerospace applications?

Yes, IPC-6011 provides the foundation, but military and aerospace applications typically require IPC-6012 Class 3 with the ES (Space and Military Avionics) addendum. This creates what’s sometimes called Class 3/A, the highest performance level for printed circuits. These applications also reference MIL-PRF-55110, MIL-PRF-31032, and NASA standards like GSFC-STD-8001 for additional requirements. The IPC-6011 class structure serves as the baseline that these application-specific requirements build upon.

Useful Resources

Official IPC Standards:

• IPC Store (IPC-6011A): shop.ipc.org/ipc-6011
• ANSI Store: webstore.ansi.org
• IHS Markit: global.ihs.com
• GlobalSpec: standards.globalspec.com

Related IPC Performance Specifications:

• IPC-6012F: Qualification and Performance Specification for Rigid Printed Boards
• IPC-6013D: Qualification and Performance Specification for Flexible Printed Boards
• IPC-6018C: Qualification and Performance Specification for High Frequency Printed Boards
• IPC-A-600: Acceptability of Printed Boards (visual acceptance criteria)

Quality and Supplier Standards:

• IPC-1710: OEM Standard for Printed Board Manufacturers’ Qualification Profile
• IPC-9191: General Guidelines for Implementation of Statistical Process Control
• IPC-QL-653: Certification of Facilities That Inspect/Test Printed Boards
• ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems

Training and Certification:

• IPC-A-600 Certification Program: ipc.org/ipc-a-600-certification
• IPC EDGE Online Training: ipc.org/ipc-edge

Industry Resources:

• IPC Knowledge Center: ipc.org
• NASA GSFC-STD-8001: Standard Quality Assurance Requirements for Printed Circuit Boards

Conclusion

IPC-6011 may be a short document, but its impact on PCB manufacturing and procurement is foundational. By establishing the Class 1, 2, and 3 framework and defining quality assurance requirements that apply across all printed board technologies, IPC-6011 creates the common language that enables consistent expectations between users and suppliers worldwide.

Key points to remember:

1. IPC-6011 is automatically included when you specify any IPC-6010 series document
2. Class selection is the user’s responsibility – specify it clearly in procurement documentation
3. The 2025 revision (IPC-6011A) modernizes the specification while maintaining compatibility
4. Quality assurance provisions establish the framework for testing and inspection
5. IPC-1710 MQP provides standardized supplier qualification per IPC-6011 requirements

Whether you’re a designer specifying board requirements, a buyer qualifying suppliers, or a manufacturer establishing quality systems, understanding IPC-6011 is essential for successful printed board procurement and production.