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In August 2007, the European Institute of Printed Circuits produced a Technology Roadmap for the industry for the period 2007‐2017. The purpose of this paper is to give details of the roadmap, the aim of which is to provide information which underpins the aims of the EU‐funded ProSurf project, which are to strengthen European small‐to‐medium enterprises (SME) competitiveness in both the medium‐ and long‐term through increasing knowledge and awareness of high‐tech methods in these industries.

The approach is an outline of the ProSurf project which will enable SMEs to have a clear view of the trends that will affect their businesses in the coming decade, and be delivered in a way that is readily comprehensible.

The summary highlights the present market, the market characteristics, and the position of the European PCB industry today. General factors which influence market trends are listed, within which the demands for miniaturisation and weight reduction, and higher data transmission rates are notable. There are specific requirements of each market sector, viz military, consumer, and automotive electronics, and here the roadmap looks at design rules and manufacturing capabilities. Towards the end of the roadmap attention is paid to the environmental considerations.

The ProSurf technology roadmap is a unique document without peer, and is specific to the European PCB industry whilst having considerable influence in other global areas as the technology demands within Europe impact upon production elsewhere.

The UK is a leader in the implementation of surface mount technology, and SMARTEX '91 sponsored by the SMART Group is one of only a few shows organised worldwide which is dedicated solely to this field. Perhaps it was not surprising then that this year's three‐day event proved a great success.

Setting off on the short trip from the Isle of Man to London, it was a wet and windy day signalling the imminent arrival of another British winter. However, on arrival at Heathrow, the stormy weather had abated and there was an almost calm serenity which made the 15 minute drive to Egham in Surrey pleasantly uplifting.