The process of searching for the right prototype PCB assembly service is a time-consuming and daunting task. And that is due to two reasons: one is that you will need to find an assembly service that can deliver quality work, and second, it could take you pages of lists of PCB assemblers before finding one. In this article, we’ll explore how you can choose the best prototype PCB assembly provider.
Prototype PCBs: Why are they important?
Before we head over to the main matter, let’s understand first why prototype PCBs are a vital component of your project. Listed below are the reasons why you’d want to have a prototype PCB assembled prior to the final product.
1. Conceptualizing the idea
Prototype PCBs are handy for visualizing your concept. With the help of a PCB prototype assembly service, you can make it easier to envision the project that you’ll plan to turn into a product. Through a visualized version of your concept, your organization will have a means to communicate and provide feedback on it.
2. Flaw resolution
In the early stages of your project, prototype PCB assembly is vital in detecting defects and flaws in the work that you wish to complete.Through detecting these defects during the early stage, the final product is more likely to be in line with your expectations. On top of that, resolving flaws in your project early through prototype PCBs reduces design costs and shortens the project timeline in the long run.
3. Testing of a project’s functions and response to conditions
A PCB prototype assembly service can also be a huge help to your project by elevating testing of your product’s functions. Through prototypes, you can check whether the theory you’ve crafted for your future device works or is just good on paper. Through testing your project’s functions, you can see how close or distant the result is to your expectations.
Therefore, your company can consider whether to continue the project, revise it for a different purpose, or scrap it in favor of a better idea.
- In connection with testing your project’s functions, you can also subject your prototype product to conditional testing. Products that contain PCB must undergo a variety of tests to see whether their potential end product can work in different environments. A good example is testing your prototype product to see how it can respond to the cold weather.
4. Designing your final product
Printed circuit boards are installed within products if your company is happy with the initial design. Through prototypes, your organization will have ideas on how they can apply finishing adjustments before releasing the finalized design to the public.
How do you find the best prototype PCB assembly service provider?
Now that we know how important prototype PCBs are, let’s get to know how we can search for the best PCB prototype assembly service. Listed below are some of the ways you can identify the ideal choices from the rest of your potential assembly service providers.
1. A long track record of quality service and industry experience
Experience is very pivotal in finding the right PCB prototype assembly service. That’s because what you are after is a provider that already has a proven track record of working with a variety of clients. Also, long-running providers are more likely to have a vast wealth of both manufacturing and assembly experience.
2. Certified assembly provider and adheres to industry standards.
Another telltale sign that you are meeting up with a PCB prototype assembly service that’s reputable is that they have certificates and follow industry standards. Here are some of the standards listed below that you need to be on the lookout for:
- ISO 9001:2015
- UL Certificate
- IATF 16949:2016
- ISO 13485:2016
Take note that certifications can vary depending on the provider, and the ones listed here are just the tip of the iceberg. It’s best advised that you reach out to the provider and ask questions regarding their prototype PCB assembly work.
3. Strong communication between client and provider
Communication is key to successful prototyping since the assembly provider and you will need to exchange responses from time to time. This allows you and the provider to resolve issues that are encountered during prototyping. At the same time, you can provide the PCB prototype assembly service with some feedback on their output.
Through a constant exchange of communication between you and the assembly service provider, it’s assured that the final version of the prototype will function well.
4. Access to high-tech PCB tools and equipment
It is best that you seal the deal with a prototype PCB assembly provider that has access to cutting-edge technology and equipment. The main reasons why you’d want to settle with providers that use modern technology are cutting costs, saving time, and efficiency. Providers that utilize the latest equipment can manufacture and assemble prototypes efficiently.
5. Has a vast network of component dealers
The ideal prototype PCB assembly service has access to a large network of component and material dealers. This is also crucial if your intent is to create a prototype that costs less since the provider will be capable of sourcing materials for your concept at a more reasonable price. On top of that, you won’t need to worry about the quality of the prototype since their sources will provide top-notch material.
6. Output quality and prototype testing
When selecting the best prototype PCB assembly service provider, you’d want to check whether they have strong quality control capabilities. On top of that, they need to have a facility that is dedicated to testing the prototype and can follow testing protocols. This is vital to the success of your concept, as it ensures the reliability of your prototype and lessens errors or defects later on.
7. Lower the turnaround time, the better!
Another important note to consider when looking for a PCB assembly prototype service is to see whether they can deliver the output at the specified time. It would be even better if they could complete it before the expected deadline. However, you’ll need to keep in mind that providers may have varying turnaround times. Factors that can affect turnaround time are the number of prototypes that you’ll need, the intricacy of your concept product, and the available materials.
8. Pricing and multiple methods of payment
When you’re searching for a PCB assembly prototype provider, you’d want to look for those who offer multiple payment options and services at decent but not expensive prices. Make sure that the provider also offers transparent and fair payment structures. After all, you’d want to see whether your investment in the prototype is worth every buck.
The best assembler ensures top-notch prototypes
When searching for a quality PCB assembly prototype provider, you’d want to factor in their working experience, certifications, technology access, and efficiency. You can also consider additional criteria to further narrow down your options if you want to be more specific in regards to your prototype.
That way, you can narrow your list down to the best options and weigh their advantages, so you can determine which PCB assembly prototype service meets your expectations.
