Before printed circuit board fabrication and assembly, there are many pieces of stuff to do. In the companies, only adequate price consideration and high traceability can get prototyping approval, which are the pains of many engineers. Here listed some things to consider before conducting printed circuit board fabrication & assembly.
1. Figure out the best PCB dimension for the design
For printed circuit board fabrication, small boards usually mean low-cost, but the design might require more inner layers, which will increase your cost. Big boards will be easier to layout, no need for extra signal layers, but the fabrication will cost more. How to work out the best suitable dimension without features lost will be the first thing should be considered.
2. Specify components’ sizes
For passive components, the standard size of 0603 may be the best choice for the lowest cost, which is also a common size and good for SMT assembly. The handing repair of 0603 devices is relatively also easy, which will not be a barrier as the ultra-small devices.
Even though PS Electronics can proceed with 01005 size devices, not all of the assembly houses are capable of this, while ultra-small devices are not indispensable.
3. Check out obsolete or very new parts
The obsolete components are obviously out, which will not stop you from printed circuit board fabrication, but it will get stuck in the assembly process. And nowadays, some new parts are available only in the ultra-small wafer BGA or small QFN sizes. Take a look at your PCB designs, ensure that you’ve already relace any obsolete parts using by the preferable new parts.
Another note is to pay attention to the MLCCs you employe, which of them now require a very long purchase-cycle.
4. Consider for alternatives
An alternative is always a good idea, especially you’ve already employed some sole-source components. Sole-source means you’ll lose control of the prices and delivery time, alternatives will help you to avoid this situation.
5. Don’t forget heat dissipation in printed circuit board fabrication
Very large parts next to very small ones might cause problems. The larger part acts somewhat like a radiator and may damage the smaller part. The same can happen if the inner copper foil overlaps on one half of a small part, but the other does not.
6. Make sure part nums and polarity markings are clear
Make sure it is clear which silkprinting is used with which part and that there is no ambiguity about the polarity mark. Pay particular attention to LED components, because the manufacturers sometimes swap polarity markers between the anode and the cathode. Also, keep the markings as far away from the through-hole or any pad.
7. Check the version of your files
There will be many temp versions of PCB designs or BOMs, just make sure the ones you sent to us for printed circuit board fabrication are the final revisions.
8. If some of the parts will be supplied
Please ensure you’ve marked and packaged them properly, including the amounts and corresponding part numbers. Detailed information provided will help us to finish printed circuit board fabrication and assembly more quickly.
