PCB Assembly – Checklist to Select the Best Service Providers

Most manufacturers these days choose to outsource their PCB assembly jobs to agencies that specialize in the work, thereby streamlining their operations and getting access to high quality circuit cards to use in their products. The idea is simple and makes the entire manufacturing process quite economical and better organized. But these advantages are only possible in case the service provider you choose to work with is worthy of your trust. This checklist will help you make the right choice.

#Location

One of the most important points to remember when selecting a PCB assembly service provider is their proximity to your manufacturing unit. Having one within drivable distance will provide you with enough flexibility and agility when manufacturing conditions change or deadlines are imminent. The need of site surveys, material stock taking and component acquisition can also be managed easily if the manufacturer is located reasonably within reach.

#Certifications

PWB assembly services involve various intricate and highly technical processes which need to be performed by personnel that are trained and certified to do this work. When you choose a circuit card manufacturer to partner with your organization, make sure they have a skilled and experienced team of technicians who are adept at handling various aspects of the task at hand.

#Equipment

The functionality of the manufacturing equipment of a PCB contract manufacturer is critical to their ability to fulfill the contract's requirements. Do they use the latest manufacturing technology or are their manufacturing systems obsolete? Are the pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and wave soldering equipment well maintained? What do their maintenance logs tell you about the technological health of the company? And most importantly, do you trust this organization as being capable of executing the manufacturing contract you are thinking of entering? A critical analysis of a company’s capabilities will reveal a lot about what to expect from their services.

#Quality Check

This happens to be one of the most important aspects to look into when hiring a PCB assembly service provider. Even if a particular manufacturer possesses the necessary capabilities to perform a task, if they are lenient when it comes to quality maintenance, it might just be a deal breaker. Does the assembly company have a quality system in place such as ISO 9001:2008? Look at their certifications as well as past record to find out just how dedicated they are to the cause of quality maintenance in deliverables. Look at the contract from the point of view of a long term relationship and you will understand just how service quality and support take precedence over convenience and affordability.

A critical analysis of the above four aspects will help you in determining which PCB assembly service provider is actually worthy of working with. The internet can go a long way in helping you find the right company to hire for the job. http://www.bestproto.net/ is a great firm to trust for most of these requirements. Make sure you check out their services before making your final choice.

About The Author

David Fischer is an Engineer and has a special interest in the world of circuit board. He is also a part of the lab testing teams in various companies. He loves to write and share his extensive knowledge & experience in this field. He highly recommends BESTProto for building electromechanical and PCB prototypes.