Streamlining the Process of Printed Circuit Board Assembly

11 juillet 2016

printed circuit board assemblyThere are a number of important parts and components used in any electronic device. Circuitry is one of the most common, as these boards have a major impact on the rest of the hardware and software used. Printed circuit board assembly is a technique that many design companies have refined and improved in throughout recent years. Not only have companies been able to create boards faster, but they have been able to help customers become more involved in the process. And with design platforms made to catch errors during the creation process, it has become much easier for devices to be integrated without issue.

A Quicker Design Process for Custom Boards

Printed circuit board assembly has become popular for a number of reasons. One of which is that it allows for orders to be completed in a timelier manner. Whether a customer is ordering a single board or a bulk order, modern printing methods can help streamline the creation process. In addition, the modern printing process also helps to promote accuracy in the end product. While even the most skilled developers may make a small error when creating a board with traditional methods, modern printing relies on designs which can be created by the customer.

printed circuit board assemblyQuicker and Easier Design Processes

Creating a circuit board can be a complicated task, but there have been many innovations in the area of circuitry design. One of these involves the use of detailed interactive software platforms which give users access to in-depth creation options featuring the parts offered by a given design company. This makes it easier for the customer to create a design that suits their needs, and they can also be assisted by support members from the organization they’re working with. This software makes it easier for customers to understand the end cost of their board during the process.

Helping to Promote Cost-Efficient Design

Cost is always a factor when it comes to technology, and many people hesitate to order custom circuitry due to financial concerns. But the modern software platforms which allow users to design their own product also helps them understand the overall cost. Many companies offer accurate price estimates so single or bulk orders of boards can be budgeted in easily. Whether it’s a large defense agency or a small IT company, managing the financial aspect of circuitry is much easier with accurate price quotes.

printed circuit board assemblyFile Checks and Error Prevention

One of the most complicated aspects of new technology is ensuring it is implemented properly. Missing files or compatibility issues can cause major delays when it comes to using new circuitry. Modern printing methods and design platforms usually provide alerts whenever potential errors are found. These methods can also help developers and customers ensure that all files are present and that no major issues exist with any board design before it is printed. This safeguard can help streamline the assembly process and allow customers to get their board or boards much quicker.

What Is a Printed Circuit Board?

11 juillet 2016

printed circuit boardElectronics are a huge part of the world today. People use them to gain access to the internet where they can post on their social media accounts, apply for jobs, and keep in touch with their loved ones. However, many people have no idea what actually allows their valued electronics to work. One of the main components in any electronic, be it a game console or a computer, is the printed circuit board.

The printed circuit board is a component of the electronic that connects different points with wires. It allows the flow of electricity through the wires to critical points of the electronic device. For example, if there’s a piece of the device that needs to be lit up when a button is pressed, a wire will carry the electrical current to the light which allows it to shine when the command is given. However, the actual uses of the circuit board are much more complex than simply telling a light to turn on.

printed circuit boardWhat Are Circuit Boards Made of?

The creation of the circuit board has revolutionized the way electronics are created. In older devices, alternative methods of electrical power transferring had to be used, which resulted in a large device that was unconventional. Today, the circuit boards are utilized to reduce the size of a device, therefore making it more reasonable to carry and easier to use. These boards have allowed electronic devices to become convenient and able to be used every day, rather than a rarity.

The main portion of the circuit board, known as the substrate, is usually made out of fiberglass. This is the most common material for the base of the board because there are flexible types of fiberglass and even some types that are resistant to temperature changes. This is necessary because in the case of a computer, it can become overheated. The fiberglass is what prevents the circuit board from melting or becoming inoperable.

printed circuit boardCopper can also be found within a layer of the board. This is because copper is flexible and is a great conductor of electricity. The speed in which electrical current can travel through a metal is important because it allows commands to be responded to immediately. Nobody wants to press a button and have to wait an entire second for the response to be given.

Soldermask is another material that’s found in the boards, which is what gives them the green color they have. It covers the copper layer and prevents that metal from coming in contact with other portions of the board. The soldermask of the circuit board allows just the right portions of metal to be exposed so they can be connected with the wiring that transfers the electrical signals.

printed circuit board

These are just some of the main components of a circuit board. There are many other parts that are used in their creation, and there are also many ways to produce them. All in all, the creation of these boards has allowed people to enjoy convenient, smaller electronic devices that provide them with the assistance or entertainment they desire.

Facts About Modern Circuit Board Design

11 juillet 2016

circuit board designThe type of technology used in most commercial and industrial fields has changed significantly in recent years. One of the main reasons for this is because the methods for creating hardware has changed as well. While technology is constantly evolving, modern printing methods have made circuit board design faster, more efficient, and less prone to errors. Whereas stock boards and traditional engineering processes were popular in previous years, printing methods and custom designs have become the norm. Circuitry is designed in such a manner that customers can budget in their orders easier, understand the capabilities of a given board, create more focused designs, and even check for errors during the design process.

Getting Quotes on Custom Circuitry Designs
Cost is always a concern when it comes to technology. Many people aspire to use more powerful equipment and components for their computers and machinery. Whether at an industrial work site, a non-profit organization, or a government agency, adhering to a budget is important. In the past, it could be difficult to anticipate overall costs when it came to a specific board. However, modern technology has allowed developers to help customers calculate costs more accurately. Many companies offer quotes ahead of time whether a customer is ordering a single circuit board or a bulk order.

circuit board designUnderstanding What a Model is Capable Of
There are a number of circuit boards which can suffice for a variety of tasks. However, more intricate tasks in a given field require designs that are more focused on specific tasks or that are designed to work with specific types of hardware and software. While in the past it was common for customers to be relatively uncertain about whether or not their board of choice would fulfill certain needs, modern technology enables customers to find out the exact capabilities of circuitry before they purchase it.

circuit board designAdvanced Design Platforms for Better Results
Everyone’s needs are different, and sometimes the question about which type of part or component is better comes down to preference. Because of this fact, many developers have worked to make it easier for customers to create their own custom configurations. High-end design platforms are now offered by many board developers. This software allows customers to craft designs based on the available parts and capabilities of the company they’re working with. The customer can often get assistance from a staff member as needed during the process. And this type of step-by-step design process provides additional benefits as well.

Helping to Promote Improved Efficiency
Whenever it comes to implementing new hardware, it is always possible that several compatibility issues may arise. This is especially true with circuitry, as a board has a direct relation with all pieces of major hardware used in a given machine. While the design process can lead to certain issues, many developers have introduced methods to help catch errors. These include file checks, smart-design platforms, and error alerts in design software. These automated solutions in the circuit board design process account for the possibility of human oversight and often lead to a better end-product.

Facts About Printed Circuit Board Assembly

8 juin 2016

printed circuit board assemblyNearly all industries have advanced due to improvements in technology. While these types of advancements have created a more convenient society, they also play an important role in the fields of construction, defense, and medicine. The assembly process for advanced circuitry has changed over the years. Printed circuit board assembly processes are more precise and controlled than ever, allowing designers to work with customers and create a seamless experience. From drafting models designed for specific tasks to implementing this new technology and making sure the adaptation period goes smoothly, companies who offer PCB services can assist in every step of the experience.

Quick Outputs from All-in-One Companies

printed circuit board assemblyMuch of the time spent creating circuit boards has to do with engineers interpreting designs submitted by customers. By bringing these two aspects of the process together, many organizations have proved to be holistic resources for printed circuit board assembly. Industry professionals and veterans of circuit design can work directly with customers and even update them during the assembly process. This kind of quality control helps customers feel more confident about the results, and also helps them get a better product. This is true for quick turn/small quantity assembly and for advanced features.

Advanced Assembly Capabilities for Custom Boards

printed circuit board assembly

While many standard features can suffice for a variety of needs, some buyers look for more powerful technology. This could be to help exceed the competition in an industrial environment, to create better results for patients in the medical field, or even to boost defense capabilities at a military facility. Many advanced features are offered by professional PCB companies including Surface Mount (SMT), Thru-hole, Mixed Technology (SMT & Thru-hole), Fine Pitch Components, single or double sided placement, and more. Finding the right fit is very important for precise results, and the printing process enables designers to create a better product.

Assistance During Installation and Implementation

Getting high-quality technology is very important, but this technology can only work properly if it is installed and configured in the proper manner. More advanced systems can be more difficult to work with, especially when new hardware is introduced. The designers who fabricate and assemble custom boards usually offer technical support services to help customers make sure their new circuitry is implemented into operations with ease. This not only includes on-site installation and start-up services (which sometimes come with costs waived), but also with technical support afterward.

A Guarantee of Long-Lasting Quality

printed circuit board assemblyBy using high-quality parts and installations designed to make sure that products work exactly as intended, those who design and assemble custom circuit boards guarantee longevity. This also comes from the fact that most modern boards are designed to accommodate updates and modifications smoothly. This type of strategic design makes it easy for companies to guarantee quality in their work. The advanced assembly service coupled with the all-in-one nature of the design and fabrication process makes getting advanced circuitry easier than ever. This has led to many improvements in a variety of industries.

Facts About Printed Circuit Board Design

8 juin 2016

circuit board designNearly all industries depend on new and innovative technologies. Machinery and computers need to have the right parts in order to fulfill their proper functions, and circuitry plays a large role in how these units work. These units have been designed in a more complicated and intricate manner in recent years due in large part to the demand for more powerful devices and technology. In both recreational and commercial tasks, many devices that are used take advantage of high-quality board designs. The way these boards are designed has changed substantially in recent years, and many common techniques are used by top designers in the industry.

The Ability to Streamline Large Orders

circuit board designWhile there are a number of instances where a customer may order a single board, most orders are made in bulk. This is because quality circuit board design is needed in a variety of products ranging from mobile devices to heavy-duty industrial machines. Companies that need to complete large lines of products usually order boards in bulk. Circuit board design has become streamlined in recent years, allowing designers to make higher quality units in a quicker manner. This makes it easier for companies and organizations to get larger quantities of these boards without skipping out on quality.

The Consultation and Planning Process

circuit board designCircuit board design involves much more than ordering a board from a design company’s stock. While in recent years many people relied on a relatively homogenous number of boards that were equipped to handle most tasks, advances in the design process have made it easier for buyers to get custom solutions. In order to make sure that customers get the right fit for their needs, many design companies offer buyers the opportunity to consult with designers in order to make sure the best result is created.

Technical Support to Ensure Customer Satisfaction

circuit board designThe companies that design boards are usually very familiar with the tasks their models are used for. Because of this, it is not uncommon for those who design these units to offer buyers access to technical support. This can help make sure buyers have a good experience and that their devices work as intended. By helping buyers troubleshoot problems and ensuring that they have a good experience, companies effectively encourage repeat business and grow their brand. And while the design process has become more intricate, the advancements have also led to more compact designs.

Space-Efficient Designs for a Number of Devices

While technology has advanced to allow for more processing power, memory storage, and data output, other factors have also been taken into consideration. Customers want convenience, and smaller devices are generally considered more favorable than larger ones. This has led many designers to focus on making powerful and intricate circuitry that is small enough to fit into compact machines and devices. Even the smallest mobile phones have more processing power and memory than many older machines, and quality circuitry is one of the main contributing factors to these improvements.

Finding a Trusted and Prompt Printed Circuit Board Designer

7 juin 2016

 printed circuit boardCircuitry is one of the most intricate components of any machine. Used in a number of recreational and commercial devices on a daily basis, PCBs play a large role in modern technology. A printed circuit board can be designed in accordance with the specific needs of a given industry or project. This leads to improve performance, affordability, and a greater level of convenience. Those who invest in this type of high-end technology often do so with the intention of creating products for customers or for very important projects. Finding the right organization can help buyers have the best experience when it comes to acquiring PCBs.

Getting Reliable Printed Circuit Board Design Services

 printed circuit boardIt can be difficult to convey to a developer the exact specifics one is looking for. A customer may be knowledgeable about their field, but even the most skilled designer may have trouble interpreting these needs accurately. This is why many organizations provide buyers with access to software designed to streamline and improve the design process. Not only does this software give individuals access to a versatile and easy-to-use platform, many of these software suites come with 3D models and file checkers to provide an even greater level of accuracy.

Reliable Assembly Services to Complement Custom Design Options

 printed circuit boardWhile many companies in the past have specialized in either PCB design or assembly, more organizations have begun offering a holistic option in recent decades. By handling the design and assembly process within the same organization, PCB companies have helped create more accurate results for customers. Engineers who are familiar with all the parts and options offered in a given design suite can generate a more satisfactory end product. This all-in-one approach to circuitry usually also comes with options for quicker deliveries and helpful perks like technical support.

Reduced Pricing and Top-Notch Service

 printed circuit boardCost is one of the main factors that any smart shopper considers, and this is especially true in the technological industry. Circuitry can sometimes be expensive, especially if a large amount of custom configurations is ordered. In addition to providing reduced prices for bulk orders, many organizations also offer monthly specials. These types of discounts can help buyers save in the long-term. Even something like a waived service fee can help any project or operation become more affordable. Working with skilled professionals who offer these types of conveniences can make the process of acquiring PCBs much easier and more enjoyable.

Working with Skilled Professionals in the PCB Field

Finding the best results when it comes to printed circuitry is often based on what organization the buyer chooses to work with. Those who are pioneers in their field can provide a more accurate and more affordable product to the buyer. This also includes guidance after the purchase has already been made. 24-hour technical support is a very popular option that buyers look for when purchasing circuit boards. This can help to make sure all parts are implemented properly and can be configured correctly.

Pros and Cons of a DIY Printed Circuit Board

10 mai 2016

printed circuit boardA printed circuit board is a complicated piece of machinery to put together. All of the pieces of the circuit board need to be put together with such exactness because of the nature of the board itself. All of the parts and pieces need to be able to create a single circuit with the right currents going through the right places and having the right processes occurring at the right time, often across multiple layers. Boards can be made through a firm by highly trained professionals or they can be made at home, but there are many advantages and disadvantages to making one by the hobbyist.


printed circuit boardThere are many pros to having a printed circuit board done at home. The most immediate pro is having the satisfaction of doing the project at home and to learn by example. Many of the best technology gurus had their start at home and it would be a good step from turning a hobby into a passion. The other pros are time and cost saved with a printed board. Many PCB’s that are done at home are very simple boards with simple functions and having them done by a third party would be something that would not save a lot of money in the long run.


printed circuit boardThere are many cons to having a PCB done at home as well. The biggest one of these is there being mistakes. A circuit board that is assembled at a factory will undergo many prototype phases and design changes before it is released to the designer. At home, if a mistake is done, a project often has to be done from the beginning. This is harder with the more complex designs. Another major con is that the designs that are done at home tend not to be looked at by multiple eyes, thus delaying the process if the design is not right.

Circuits Done at Home

printed circuit boardCircuits are most often done at home by hobbyists who explore simple functions with simple circuit boards. Those that are done at home and assembled as a one off board design are often not assembled with many prototypes or complex designs. There are many advantages to keep in mind with manufacturing a circuit board in a production facility, but that also means that there are other parties with their interests in mind as well.

Printing a circuit board certainly has its advantages. The designer tends to have a lot more freedom at the cost of experience and professionalism. A DIY circuit board certainly does not have the same clout or safety standards that manufactured ones often have. At home circuits, however, provide valuable insight for a hobbyist into what could very well become their passion and is more often than not supported by the wider community of circuit designers and manufacturers. The materials and preparation are long and the results may not yield what is intended, but the experience is incredibly valuable.

Working with a Manufacturer for Printed Circuit Board Assembly

9 mai 2016

printed circuit board assemblyThere are many factors to consider when looking for a printed circuit board assembly service to put a PCB together. Not all PCB assembly manufacturers are made equal and there are many signs that can lead to a bad manufacturer to work with.


Not all printed circuit board assembly manufacturers are created equal and their cost is also not equal. A PCB in general is reasonably priced depending on the function and the materials, but there are a variety of factors that play into the cost of a circuit board including assembly time and overhead cost among a lot of unknown variables. Look out for companies that charge too much or even charge too little. A designer can determine the true cost from looking at a variety of companies.

Turnaround Time

printed circuit board assemblyTurnaround time is another important factor to remember. Turnaround can take a few hours to a few weeks and it is important to understand how fast each company is able to turn a project from an idea into a prototype and into a finished project. The slower the turnaround time, the more it costs in terms of labor and possibly in lost materials.

PCB Dimensions

Depending on the design and the size of the PCB, some projects may not even be able to complete a project, because the design is either too large to handle or too small. There are some PCB manufacturers that do better with larger PCBs and others that do better with smaller ones, but most can do a wide range at varying prices. Shape is also an important factor to remember when looking for a manufacturer as some may not be able to perform the design due to the odd shapes.
Order Quantity

printed circuit board assemblyAnother important factor to consider is the order quantity. Some companies will only produce single copy prototypes and others will produce larger quantities, but only to a certain number. Looking at order quantity is important because it not only gives the designer of the turnaround time, but also of the quality of the PCB that is being produced.


printed circuit board assemblyWhen it comes to in-house testing, some companies will do more testing than other companies will. Testing during the assembly process will prevent any bad product from leaving the assembly line and getting to the consumer. Any company that does in house testing will make sure that the product performs the best before going back to the designer as a prototype.

Sales and Support

Companies that have a good customer service reputation are always there on behalf of the customers. Working with something as complicated as a PCB means that constant communication between the designer and the manufacturer is really important, especially if the two are in different areas.

There are many other factors that play into choosing the right manufacturer to prototype and assemble a PCB. The right one is important and these are just the major factors that play into it. It is not worth the time and the money to pick the wrong one for the wrong reasons.

Fixing Circuit Board Design Mistakes

8 mai 2016

circuit board designCircuit board design is a complicated process with many steps to a complex assembly of parts on a small scale. As such, mistakes can arise from circuit board design problems. The design of a circuit board is often changed before the assembly begins, but there are some that are not detected until after the process has started. Failing to get these board design mistakes handled before the assembly can cost a lot of time and money along with precious resources. There are many common mistakes that can easily be detected and handled.

Improper Stackup Design

circuit board designThe connection between circuit board layers in what is called a stack is something that is hard to change. In addition to having all of the connections being misaligned, an improper stack will render the circuits and the internal processes almost useless. If a system in the stack needs to be modified due to the processes being changed, then many parts of the stack need to be realigned.

Not Including Extra Components

There are always those 11th hour changes that need to be addressed. A lot of the time, there is some important component that needs to be added, but there may be no room for those items to fit. In that case, a complete redesign should be necessary.

Extra Processes

circuit board designAs with the designer, the fabricator may need some processes that the designer does not know about. It can be a problem if the processes are contradictory to another or proprietary. The best way to combat that would be to check with the fabricator as to what kinds of restrictions exist and to get the software that allows room for the processes that the fabricator would add later.

Not Having Design Reviews

It is always worth it to have more than one set of eyes look at a design. All of the stakeholders of a product should have a say in how they would want a product to operate. This will give the designer a better idea as to how to design the circuit board so that the designer does not have to change it down the road.

Not Doing a Backup Regularly

circuit board designA designer’s worst nightmare is working on something and then having the computer program go wrong. Designers can tell more than one story about their horrific experiences with losing precious work. Every designer can tell a new one to back everything up and to save their work on multiple hard drives.

Not Communicating

With all the parties at play with a design, keeping in touch with all of them is something that will save a lot of time and money. It is easy to lose sight of team members through the long days and the complexities of the design. It is also worth the time to send design the other parties as well, especially the manufacturers, so that they can guide the design as needed from their end. A circuit board is hard enough to design, so do not make simple and costly mistakes that could lead to months of lost work.

Always Vigilant: Error-Free Printed Circuit Board Assembly

11 avril 2016

printed circuit board assemblyEvery electronic device can be faulty; the possibility is always there. Sometimes, mass production runs of a faulty design can lead to widespread errors and inconveniences. In recent years, certain lines and models of smartphones have been plagued by overheating batteries or consistent dropped calls due to poor antennae placement. Of course, a faulty component can have much more dire consequences than cellular annoyances. Hurried and incorrect wiring have been linked to disasters like plane crashes. NASA has also seen its share of trouble due to erroneous components during manned and unmanned shuttles.

As the connecting host of the brains, memory, and power of most devices, it’s more than important that PCBs don’t fail. Not to mention the fact that PCBs are literally everywhere. Computers, televisions, phones, clocks, automobiles, plans, medical equipment, musical instruments, and satellites – the list is endless. This means that printed circuit board assembly has a lot riding on it, and billions of people depending on it being done correctly.

Assembling PCBs to Fulfil a Need

printed circuit board assemblyAssembly itself can range from routine to incredibly complex. Some boards are jam-packed with the tiniest of components and traces. And the thing is: small parts are getting even smaller. To fulfill new needs and demands for electronics with ever smaller form factors and more complex processes – while extending battery life and decreasing power usage – it’s a tall order.

Because they connect all the working parts of a computer’s brain, the list of potential PCB-errors is extensive. Metal traces may not be properly insulated from each other. This can lead to arcing, which can burn the PC board – or even destroy the device. Poorly laid solder can lead to insufficient wetting, solder bridging, or overwhelming flux. These errors could spell catastrophe for any board.

Low-Quality Parts Lead to More Issues

printed circuit board assemblyOnce printed circuit board assembly is completed, and their host devices are on the shelves, an entirely new realm of potential defects opens up. If a board’s components are not high-quality parts, wear and tear may result in malfunctions. Improperly-attached components or poorly-drilled through-holes can result in parts becoming dislodged during device transport. A cheap solder mask or low-quality insulating ink can result in severe overheating when the consumer uses the device for any extended period of time. Overheating can then lead to component casings melting – and even catching flame.

printed circuit board assemblyEnvironmental conditions can also wreak havoc on a PC board. Contaminants, corrosion, and poor air-quality can gunk up a board’s traces and pads. Plus, if flimsy substrates are used, traces have the potential to crack – leading, again, to malfunctions or total device failure.

The reasons listed above represent just some of the possible glitches and failures that can occur in the intricacy and complexity of PC boards and their operations. At a time when low-cost, wholesale component and board sellers grow unchecked, it’s becoming more important than ever to exercise due-diligence in the design and development of these tiny (and for all intents and purposes, fragile) boards that consumers ask to shoulder so much.