Printed Circuit Assembly FAQs
What documents are required for a PCB assembly order?
Gerber files are used for PCB fabrication. Bill of Materials (BOMs) are used for component procurement. Coordinate files are used to accurately place components on the PCB.
Gerber files, BOMs, and coordinate files are required. Assembly drawings, test files, and process specifications are provided based on project requirements.
Why do we need to panelize circuit boards?
Paneling and unified routing can reduce the number of manual operations, saving materials and labor in the PCB manufacturing process. Some very small boards are difficult for placement machines to identify when processed individually. Assembling large panels allows for better gripping and positioning, accelerating SMT placement efficiency.
What is a Turnkey Order?
A turnkey order requires the customer to provide only the design files (such as Gerber, BOM, coordinate files, etc.). Turnkey orders are categorized as either full turnkey or partial turnkey. Full turnkey involves the factory taking care of all aspects of the process, while partial turnkey involves the customer providing some components or PCBs, with the factory taking care of the rest.
Are there any special requirements for BGA assembly?
BGA packaging requires high-precision placement and strict reflow profile control. Because solder joints are invisible to the naked eye, X-ray inspection is necessary to assist in quality control.
When does turnaround time begin?
Turnaround time begins once all components and PCBs are ready and all PCB files, centroids, BOMs, and other required data or documents are complete.
What is the turnaround time for turnkey orders?
For turnkey orders, turnaround time is primarily determined by the time required to procure all necessary components. We will contact you via email to update you on procurement progress and overall timeframe.
What is a centroid file?
A centroid file is a specialized file required during the assembly process to efficiently program automated assembly machines.
Centroid file reference indicators include: X and Y coordinates, component orientation, and whether the board is top or bottom.
What does your quote include?
PCB assembly pricing includes: installation fees, templates, SMT assembly, manual soldering labor, manual assembly, component costs, and PCB manufacturing. The specific quote will be determined based on the information provided by the customer.
How do I ship parts for multiple orders?
Each order must be neatly packaged and contain all the required components. Please ensure each component package is clearly labeled to indicate which order the part is for.
How do I place a PCB assembly order?
Upload Gerber files –> Upload BOM/CPL files –> Select the components to be assembled –> Get a quote.
Are your components RoHS compliant?
es, all of our components are RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant, ensuring they are free of lead, cadmium, and other hazardous substances, meeting international environmental standards.
What are your PCB assembly standards?
Our PCB assembly services comply with IPC-A-610 Class 2 standards. This ensures your circuit boards meet high quality, reliability, and performance standards, suitable for a wide range of products.
Do you provide testing and inspection services?
Yes. We offer different types of testing and inspection services.
What testing services do you provide?
We offer a variety of testing services, including:
ICT (In-Circuit Test): Used to check the electrical connectivity of the circuit board.
FCT (Functional Test): Used to check the functionality of the entire circuit board.
AOI (Automated Optical Inspection): Used to inspect soldering quality and component placement.
X-Ray Inspection: Primarily used to inspect BGA solder joints.
High-Temperature and High-Humidity Testing.
What should I do if I discover defects or issues with the assembled circuit board after receiving it?
If any defects or issues are discovered upon receipt, please contact us immediately and provide relevant photos or videos. Our professional technical team will analyze the photos and provide solutions such as repair or re-manufacturing until you are satisfied.
Can you provide parts for my assembly?
Yes, we can provide a full set of parts or a selection of parts based on your needs. We work with a variety of high-quality suppliers to ensure that all parts are genuine and meet our quality standards.
Is there a minimum order quantity (MOQ) requirement for PCB assembly orders?
Generally speaking, there is no minimum order quantity (MOQ) requirement for PCB assembly orders.
What happens to any remaining or unused components in a turnkey order?
Components with limited use are returned to the customer along with the assembled circuit board. Other components are retained by us for future assembly.
How should I provide special instructions?
You can email us with your detailed requirements or attach a readme file with your order to ensure we understand your needs.
