10 Good Tips on Choosing the Right PCB Assembly Services

The success of electronic devices that we use a daily basis depends on printed circuit boards. Printed circuit boards enable electronic devices to function as they do. Finding the right printed circuit board assembly service is essential.

If you choose to work with new firms, rest assured of getting faulty PCBs that won't function as you intend. Among other parts of an electronic device, PCBs are the most important. PCBs are vital since they control the functioning of an electronic device. So, how do you go about ensuring that you select the best PCB assembly services?

In a sea of hundreds of them currently in business, it may not be easy to find the best. But all is not lost. The following are ten tips on selecting the right PCB assembly services.

(It is a challenging task finding the ideal PCB assembly services)

1. PCB Assembly Services Location

There's nothing tasking and frustrating as having to source your PCB assembly services miles away. If this is the case, it means that you'll have to spend some extra funds. Do you need your boards delivered to you immediately upon completion? How far is your manufacturer from your current location?

As you select the best assembly services, make sure that your potential partner is a few miles away. If you aren't aware yet, shipping distance may influence the timelines of your products. Again, this could either be positive or negative. PCB assembly firms whose location is a bit distant will see you paying extra costs for shipping. Also, you may encounter product delays.

(Look for a PCB assembler that is easy to locate and is convenient for you and them)

2. The Quality of Materials They Use

The type of material that goes into your printed circuit boards is essential. Unfortunately, many individuals in search of PCB assembly services aren't aware of such. For instance, the materials that PCBs use have to be conductive or insulating.

If you have your boards built from the ground up, don't compromise on the quality of materials used. The right assemblers are those that use high-quality materials. With high-quality materials, your boards will be durable and function for long periods without failure. Additionally, you'll be saving on costs associated with finding other assemblers. These are assemblers who manufacture their boards using the best materials.

(PCBA component materials)

3.Design Partnership

Printed circuit boards are expensive to design and then manufacture. If you are in the market for the best assemblers, pause for a bit, and consider design partnership. A design partnership is where you and your assembler collaborate. Here, you'll have a sit down with your assembler and try to come out with the best possible design.

Don't partner with designers who manufacture your boards immediately. They receive your design. When coming up with your design, you may have missed out on some crucial details. The best PCB assemblers are those that make an attempt and tell you where you went wrong. With such, you'll be ensuring the design and production of the best circuit boards.

(Work with an assembler that will dedicate their time analyzing your design and might pick up some errors you might have on your configuration)

4. PCB Assembly Services Price

Costs are a significant factor when selecting the right PCB assembly services. Yet, you need to keep at the back of your mind that quality is related to the price in most cases. Here, it means that you will get printed circuit boards that match your money's value. But again, you'll want to be confident that your math is adding up well. You want to be sure that you aren't spending more than you may have to do.

The best PCB assemblers are those who aren't extremely pricey. While quality is related to price, the best assemblers offer discounts and aren't exploitative based on their pricing. Balancing cost and quality matters are essential if you want to achieve the lowest price, but for the boards you require. At times, you need to exercise caution when it comes to costs. Again, don't fall for cheaply-priced PCBs.

(The prices and expenses related to your PCB assembly are crucial. Be keen for ridiculous offers and prices)

5. PCB Assembly Services Proper Manufacturing Guidelines

PCBs are some of the most sought-after products in many places across the globe. Additionally, companies that assemble them are some of the most profitable firms around. In a bid to increase sales to boost revenues, plenty of PCB assemblers often rush their manufacturing process. A majority of them focus on quick mass production and ignore vital manufacturing guidelines. Sticking to proper manufacturing guidelines is a must for the production of high-quality PCBs.

With proper guidelines, there's the avoidance of costly manufacturing mistakes. Some of the best manufacturing guidelines include the use of a good manual and adequate employee training. Moreover, the best quality management systems may be necessary. If your PCB assembly services firm lacks these, then be prepared for some uncertainty. Either you'll have faulty boards or spend more finding other PCBs.

(engineer checks for adherence to proper manufacturing steps)

6. The Type and Quality of Manufacturing Equipment Used

Technology has lately evolved. Unlike it was several decades back, such isn't the case as of today. With technology continuing to grow, we see new additions and design equipment, especially across the manufacturing sector. It's ideal for the best PCBs to select assemblers who use the latest equipment to assemble your boards. If the machine that your assembler uses lacks excellent accuracy and precision, then look elsewhere.

The reason for the above is that they won't pick and place more minute parts. Furthermore, older assembly equipment with poor maintenance and repair may slow down your manufacturing process. Any defects in the machine will require a lot of repair and maintenance time. If you find that your potential assembler outsources PCB assembly machines, then don't engage with them. Such indicates that they are still new in business and operating on a trial and error basis.

(automated PCB assembly services equipment)

7.A Vast Number of Assembly Lines

When it comes to PCB assembly services, extensive production is relevant. Let's assume that you want to assemble your boards, and you need them within the shortest time possible. If you choose to work with an assembler with limited assembly lines, delays will be inevitable. But can your assembly firm can manage huge volumes of orders simultaneously? If so, then there's no reason not to assemble with them.

If you want to ensure that your entire PCB assembly process is fast, then shop around for firms with multiple assembly lines. With several assembly lines, you won't have to deal with the headache of product delays. To further enhance your PCB assembly experience, it is crucial to partner with assembly firms with a backup plan. It comes in handy in the event of an overbooking.

(PCB assembly lines, PCB assembly services)

8.Proper Storage Mechanisms

Storage of printed circuit boards determines their functionality in the long run. When exposed to air and humidity, some parts of a PCB tend to oxidize and corrode. Many PCB assemblers aren't aware of the importance of proper storage. Looking around, most of them package them in carton boxes after assembling them. Adequate storage of PCBs is another criterion when selecting the best assemblers in the market.

The best assemblers are those that deliver their packages in vacuum seals. Vacuum seals are the best for several reasons. However, a lot of people prefer them since they have silica gels that best handle humid conditions. If you want to have your PCBs working correctly, consider selecting assemblers with a good understanding of the importance of proper storage. Proper storage is vital, especially during monsoon seasons, when temperatures tend to rise. Always choose the best packagers in business.

(automatic sealing machine packaging assembled PCBs)

9. Quality Control Standards

As a PCB user, among other things, there's a massive risk of working with assemblers who don't have quality control measures in place. Select PCB assemblers who meet safety and performance standards. Ensure compliance through fast turnaround times, the use of trained personnel, and 24/7 customer assistance.

Does your potential PCB assembler undertake quality inspection? What do testimonials say above them? The right PCB assembly services companies work to ensure that they meet or even surpass them. With such, they'll be availing you with the best-assembled circuit boards.

(Look to partner with a PCB assembler that has outstanding quality checks in their assembly)

10.PCB Assembly Services Testing

Testing may sound a little bit insignificant, but it's an essential step in PCB assembly? Testing after assembly will immediately catch errors and faults. With the detection of errors and defects, an assembly firm won't release faulty boards to customers. Without proper PCB tests after assembly, you may end up with panels that fail to meet the required quality standards. But to avoid such, why not select an assembler who tests the boards before availing them?

(PCB assembly services Yellow multi-meter used to test a PCB before assembly)

Summary

By now, you must be aware that the PCB industry and market are highly competitive. There are plenty of such PCB assembly services firms that lately offer its customers competitive rates. With such, you don't have to worry about finding one to partner with for your project. There is no shortage of available choices.

Unfortunately, not all of them have your PCB assembly interests at heart. But for the best in the market, look no further than OurPCB. We don't compromise on precision, quality, and timely deliveries. We can help you with your PCB assembly needs anytime. Just call us for any of your PCB assembly requirements today. You'll not regret anything.