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Bill of Materials Management In PCB Design Process

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Managing the Bill of Materials in the PCB design process can be a complex and time-consuming endeavor. Luckily, there are ways to make this process easier and more efficient. So, we will explore how to streamline BOM management in design so that you can save time and money. You will learn the best practices for maintaining an accurate BOM, methods for keeping track of changes, and tips for improving the overall design process. With these strategies, you can produce high-quality products faster and more effectively.

The Different Types of BOM

The BOM (Bill of Materials) is a document that lists all the parts, components, and materials that a product’s manufacturing requires. This includes all the parts used in assembling a product, such as the PCBs, capacitors, resistors, integrated circuits, etc. every industry needs the BOM, from automotive and aerospace to electronics and medical devices.

There are different types of BOMs, and the most common type is the pcb assembly BOM, which is used for producing products on an assembly line. This type of BOM contains detailed specifications and component information, such as the component type, quantity, and vendor information.

Another type of BOM is the engineering BOM, which is essential for design purposes and contains details about each component, such as electrical ratings, tolerances, and sizes.

The third type is the service BOM, which is necessary to keep track of spare parts or to identify which components need repair or replacement.

No matter what type of BOM you use, you should have an accurate and up-to-date list of all the parts used in the design and production process. Without an accurate list, you could end up with incorrect parts involving extra work while repairing or replacing them. Having a thorough understanding of the different types of BOMs will ensure that you can properly manage your products and design processes.

The BOM Management Process

Managing your BOMs correctly can help ensure that your designs are accurate and complete. Besides, it will minimize any potential errors or problems that could arise during the fabrication and assembly process.

The BOM management process typically begins with designing the PCB. This includes determining the parts that you will need for the design it also helps determine the components and their connections.  Once the design is complete, you can create a BOM that outlines all the essential components and connections. The BOM should also include certain information, such as part numbers, descriptions, quantities, and other relevant details.

After creating the BOM, you have to send it to the manufacturer for review and approval. This step ensures that the manufacturer can accurately produce the board with all of the required components. After the review is complete and the BOM has been approved, you can send it to the supplier for ordering.

Throughout the entire process, it’s important to stay organized and maintain accurate records. This includes tracking changes to the BOM, ensuring that the parts are available and compatible with the design, and regularly updating the BOM as you require.

With a well-managed BOM system in place, it’s much easier to keep track of all of the components and connections in your design and ensure that everything is correct and up to date.

Having this level of detail and organization allows you to quickly troubleshoot any issues that may arise throughout the manufacturing process. Besides, having accurate BOM data makes it easier to identify discrepancies between what you ordered and what you received from the suppliers.

The most effective way to manage your BOMs is to use software specifically designed for this purpose. There are many different options available on the market today, so you should do some research to determine which one best fits your needs. These tools allow you to create detailed and organized BOMs quickly and easily, as well as keep track of changes over time. Moreover, some of these programs come with features like automated bill creation and interactive reports, making it even easier to manage your projects.

By streamlining your BOM management process through software solutions, you’ll save time and money in the long run.

Best Practices for BOM Management

BOM management is an important part of any PCB design process. To ensure accuracy and consistency, there are some best practices to follow when managing BOMs.

  1. Start Early: Starting the BOM early in the design process allows for errors to be identified and corrected quickly. It also gives the design team time to make any necessary changes before the board goes into production.
  2. Update Frequently: It’s important to keep the BOM updated as the design changes. Make sure the BOM reflects the changes like replacement or removal of any component.
  3. Use Automation: Automating the BOM management process can help reduce errors and save time. You can use the automation tools such as software or scripts to generate, update, and manage the BOM.
  4. Keep Records: Keeping records of all BOMs throughout the design process allows for quick reference and helps identify any inconsistencies.
  5. Maintain Accuracy: The accuracy of the BOM is essential for the success of a PCB design. Check for any errors or typos in the BOM before sending it out for production.

Following these best practices for BOM management will ensure accuracy and efficiency in your design process. By implementing these practices early on in the design process. You can avoid costly mistakes and delays that can arise from using outdated or inaccurate BOMs.

Having accurate BOMs helps during testing and post-production analysis since they provide an accurate inventory of components used during manufacture. With proper BOM management processes in place, you’ll be able to complete projects faster while still producing high-quality products.

During the development stage, designers should always check the BOM against their schematic diagram to verify accuracy and compliance with industry standards. This verification process should take place after every step of the design process. Moreover, you should conduct it according to industry regulations.

When assembling the Printed Circuit Board, you should double-check the components against the BOM to ensure that nothing is missing. The testing should also involve verifying that all parts meet the specifications listed on the BOM.

After completing the design and assembly process, you should have one final review against the original BOM to make sure everything matches. Implementing these practices into your workflow will help streamline your bill of materials management. Eventually, it will result in a successful PCB project.

 What Else To Consider

In addition to knowing the different types of BOMs, there are some other things to follow when managing them.

For example, always check the validity of any part numbers provided on the BOM. It is also wise to provide clear descriptions for any custom parts or non-standard items included in the list.

Furthermore, make sure any drawings or schematics referenced on the BOM are current and accurately reflect any changes made throughout the design process.

Also, carefully review any cross-references provided between components, especially if any of those components become obsolete or unavailable during the product life cycle.

By following these best practices, you will be able to streamline your bill of materials management in design. Doing so will make sure that any components specified are valid and accurately reflect any changes made during the design process, ultimately saving time and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BOM?

BOM means the bill of materials, and it is a document that lists all the parts, components, and materials that a product’s manufacturing requires.

What Is There In BOM Of A PCB?

A BOM includes all the parts used in assembling a PCB, such as capacitors, resistors, integrated circuits, etc.

What is a PC Board?

A printed circuit board or PCB is a way to provide signals to help an electronic device to function. It gives mechanical support to various parts of electronics.

What Is Schematic Drawing In PCB?

A PCB schematic is a diagram with symbols that define different components. It also shows the electrical connection of components.

What Are The Benefits Of BOM Management?

Maintaining accurate BOMs throughout the entire design cycle can help improve product quality. Moreover, if a project has multiple designers working on it, having well-maintained BOMs with each revision ensures everyone is up-to-date with the latest version.

Wrap Up

When it comes to design, Bill of Materials (BOM) management is an essential part of the process. There are different types of BOMs, and the most common type is the manufacturing BOM, which is used for producing products on an assembly line. This type of BOM contains detailed specifications and component information, such as the component type, quantity, and vendor information.

Using automation tools for BOM management can also speed up processes by making it easier to track components and changes. After creating the BOM, you have to send it to the manufacturer for review and approval. This step ensures that the manufacturer can accurately produce the board with all of the required components.

Would like to know more about the Bill of Materials Management in the Design process or printed circuit board assembly? Email us at sales@pnconline.com

ET Testing for Printed Circuit board Fabrication

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As technology advances, so does the complexity of multilayer printed circuit boards. To ensure that these boards are functioning correctly, it is essential to conduct effective electrical testing during the manufacturing process. Here, we will discuss the importance of electrical testing in multilayer PCB manufacturing. We will also overview the different types of electrical tests which are applicable, and explain how to ensure that the practice of these tests is effective.

By following the right guidelines, you can ensure that your multilayer PCBs are manufactured according to the highest standards of quality and reliability. So, testing allows manufacturers to ensure the quality of their products and that they meet the customer’s requirements.

The Importance of Electrical Testing

The electrical testing of multilayer printed circuit boards is a critical step in the manufacturing process. It ensures that the components on the board are functioning properly and that the board can support the expected load and environment. Proper electrical testing helps identify any defects or performance issues in the PCB before it goes into use.

Electrical testing is an essential part of ensuring the quality and reliability of a PC Board. It is also a crucial factor in meeting safety and regulatory standards, as it helps to detect any potential problems that could lead to product failure or safety issues

Remember, that electrical testing does not replace physical inspection. However, it is still an important tool for identifying hidden defects that would be difficult to detect by a visual inspection.

In other words, electrical testing is an essential step for a PCB Manufacturer as it helps to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of the product.

The Different Types of Electrical Tests

When it comes to electrical testing in multilayer PCB manufacturing, you would see several different types of tests. These tests can range from basic electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance, to more complex tests such as signal integrity and thermal imaging. Let’s take a look at some of the most common electrical tests for PCBs.

  • A visual inspection
  • Electrical continuity
  • Solder joint integrity
  • In-circuit test
  • Flying probe test
  • Boundary scan test
  • Continuity test
  • Insulation resistance test
  • Open circuit voltage test
  • Functional test.

Visual inspection is an initial step in electrical testing that involves a visual examination of the PCBs to detect any defects in the components. Electrical continuity tests check to make sure that the connections between the components are intact and the power is flowing properly through the board. The tool for this test is often an ohmmeter.

The solder joint integrity tests ensure that all the solder connections are properly soldered and functioning correctly.

The in-circuit test checks for any short circuits, broken connections, or other defects in the circuit design.

The flying probe test verifies that all the pins are connected properly.

The boundary scan test checks for any problems in the data path signals.

The continuity test measures the resistance of a circuit by sending a small electric current through it. If the resistance is too high or too low, then it indicates an issue with the circuit. Engineers conduct this test to make sure that all the traces, components, and vias on a Printed Circuit Board are properly connected.

The insulation resistance test checks for any potential problems with insulation between the conductive paths on the board. It does this by measuring the amount of resistance between different parts of a circuit. If the resistance is too high, then it could indicate a problem with the insulation on the board

The open-circuit voltage test checks for any potential problems with short circuits and opens on a board. It does this by measuring the amount of voltage between two points on a circuit. If the voltage is too high or too low, then it could indicate a problem with the circuitry on the board.

The functional test checks that the board is functioning properly by sending various signals through it and verifying that they are working correctly. This test can also be used to verify that all components on the board are connected and functioning properly.

Overall, these different types of tests help ensure that the multilayer PCBs meet the desired performance specifications and will function properly. Testing is essential to detect any issues before they become major problems down the line.

Remember that each type of test has its unique purpose, so you must conduct them all to gain the full scope of results. After each type of test has been conducted, the results should then be compared against the customer’s requirements and expectations. If any discrepancies are found, further investigation should be conducted to determine the root cause of the issue.

Once all tests have been completed, engineers should take corrective actions if necessary.  They should thoroughly document any changes and provided them to the customer for full transparency over the production process.

It is also essential to have periodic re-testing throughout the product’s life to make sure that performance remains consistent over time. By taking all of these steps, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet customer standards and provide a reliable operation over time.

Factors to Consider When Conducting Electrical Testing

Electrical testing is a critical part of multilayer PCB manufacturing and one of the most important steps to ensure that the finished product will perform correctly. When performing electrical testing, you must consider several key factors, such as:

1: You must consider the expected environment and the use case of the PCB. You may require different tests, depending on the intended application. For example, if the PCB application is for a high-temperature environment, it should be tested for high-temperature performance.

2: You should consider the capabilities of your testing equipment. Different tests may require different types of equipment. If you don’t have the right type of equipment, it’s important to acquire the necessary testing tools to ensure accurate results.

3: You must also consider the layout and connections of the PCB. When conducting tests, it’s important to make sure that all the components are connected properly and that no loose connections or other issues exist.

4: While performing the electrical tests, you must consider the desired level of accuracy and precision. The more precise and accurate the test results, the better you can ensure that the PCB will perform correctly in a particular application.

Tips for Conducting Effective Electrical Testing

Start with The Basics: Before conducting the electrical testing, you must start with the basics. Make sure your multilayer PCB design is sound and that all the components are correctly placed. This is critical for ensuring accurate results.

Check For Short-Circuits: Short circuits can be disastrous for multilayer PCBs, so you must check for them during electrical testing. Look for any evidence of heat damage or discoloration on the board, as these are signs that short-circuit may be present.

Use An Oscilloscope: Using an oscilloscope is a great way to detect any issues with your multilayer PCB design. This tool can show you the exact path of electrical current and pinpoint any problems in the board’s circuitry.

Inspect The Components: During electrical testing, you should also inspect each component on the board to ensure a secure and precise connection. Look for signs of physical damage, such as bent pins or broken solder joints.

Test Each Layer Separately: When performing electrical testing, you must test each layer of the PCB separately. This will help you to identify any problems on a specific layer, rather than having to go through the entire board again.

Look for Potential Issues: Finally, keep an eye out for any potential issues that could arise during testing. Be aware of any changes in the voltage or current that could indicate a problem with your design.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are conducting effective electrical testing in multilayer PCB manufacturing and get accurate results every time.

Final Thoughts

Electrical testing is an important part of the multilayer printed circuit board manufacturing process. When it comes to electrical testing of multilayer PCB, several different tests should be conducted to ensure that the board is functioning properly. These tests involve different tools and equipment. Depending on the nature of the PCB application and the type of the test. When performing electrical testing, you must consider several key factors as described above.

In the above section, we discussed the basics of electrical testing in multilayer PCB manufacturing, including the types of tests to use, how to set up an effective testing process, and tips for successful testing. Now, you should have a better understanding of how to conduct effective electrical testing in multilayer PCB manufacturing. By performing various types of electrical tests on your multilayer PCBs, you can ensure that they are functioning properly and are ready for assembly and use.

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PCB Design Limitations beyond Borders

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The design of printed circuit boards is a complex and detailed process that must meet certain requirements to ensure optimal performance. One of the most important considerations when designing a Printed Circuit Board is edge clearance or the distance between a trace and the edge of the board. Unfortunately, in many cases, edge clearance may be too small to meet certain safety and performance standards. This can lead to problems with electromagnetic interference and other issues.

With the right edge clearance, you can ensure that components do not touch each other and cause short circuits. However, there may be times when you need to extend beyond the standard edge clearance limits to accommodate certain components. So, we want to explore different methods of extending past edge clearance, so that you can create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing design.

The Importance of Edge Clearance

Edge clearance is an important aspect of design. It is the distance between two traces on a circuit board and helps to ensure that the signals are isolated from each other, avoiding interference and crosstalk. Proper edge clearance also prevents shorts from occurring due to accidental contact between two components. Without proper edge clearance, the circuit board may not function correctly, or at all

Edge clearance plays an especially important role in high-speed and high-frequency designs, as it ensures that the traces are far enough apart that they don’t interfere with each other’s signals. Edge clearance also affects the signal integrity and the overall performance of the PC Board. Poorly designed edge clearance can cause signal degradation, data loss, and even the destruction of components.

In general, PCB designers should aim to have at least 6 mils or 0.006 inches of clearance between traces to avoid any potential issues. However, depending on the complexity of the design and the components, this value can be higher. It is also important to remember that edge clearance varies depending on the size of the trace, voltage levels, and other factors. Designers need to consider all of these factors when designing their PCBs to ensure that the edge clearance is adequate for the design.

Factors That Affect Edge Clearance

When it comes to designing a printed circuit board, different parameters can affect the edge clearance of the design. Some of the most important factors include:

  1. PCB Size: Edge clearance is directly proportional to the size of the PCB; the larger the PCB, the more distance between components and the edge of the board will be required. This is why it is important to carefully consider the size of the PCB before beginning the design process.
  2. Track Width: The width of any tracks on the PCB will also have an impact on the edge clearance. Tracks with larger widths will require more clearance space around them, so designers need to be mindful when choosing track widths in their designs.
  3. Components: The size and shape of the components can also have an impact on edge clearance. Larger components require more space around them, as well as additional spacing for any pins or connections that may protrude from the component body.
  4. Electrical Clearance: You must also consider the electrical clearance requirements. Adjacent components can affect the electrical signals, so designers must ensure that they maintain adequate spacing between components and the edge of the board.

Understanding and taking into account these factors is crucial when designing a PCB with proper edge clearance. By being aware of these considerations, engineers can make sure that their designs are safe and reliable, while also allowing them to extend past clearance if needed. Other than understanding the factors that affect edge clearance, there are several techniques and strategies that designers can use to increase their margins of safety. One such strategy is implementing guard rails along the edges of the PCB which prevent components from getting too close to the edges.

It’s also possible to use vias instead of traces when routing along the edges of the board since vias have greater electrical clearance than traces. Moreover, using smaller components and smaller track widths wherever possible can help free up some much-needed extra space along the edges.

Another way to increase the margins of safety is by making use of breakout boards whenever necessary. This will allow you to route complex circuits away from the main board, reducing clutter and giving you more room for edge clearance. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can easily extend the past edge clearance without compromising safety or reliability in your PCB design.

Some Important Design Rules

There are certain rules and regulations for designing printed circuit boards. There are many parameters in this regard that you have to follow. Hence, the clearance between different components has to be according to the design rules, such as:

  • The edge clearance in the case of resistors should be at least 05”.
  • The edge clearance in the case of connectors is possible through tab routing. Sometimes you can combine tab and scored routing. However, try to avoid edge connectors if the design allows you.
  • The edge clearance for capacitors should be less than 119”.

Placement of Drill Holes

  • You should also try to keep drill holes far from PCB edges. The drill holes near the edges can result in cracks in the board. The appropriate distance of drilled holes from the PCB edge can be 0.010”. This clearance applies to both un-plated and plated holes.
  • Moreover, the planes and copper traces’ distance from the board edge should be a minimum of 0.010”.
  • The distance of the traces from the mouse bite’s deepest edge should be at least 0.025”.
  • The distance of the components from the mouse bite’s deepest edge should be at least 0.075”.

The right distance between the edge and PCB elements helps manufacturers have flawless production.

Tips for Successfully Extending Past Edge Clearance

When designing a printed circuit board, it is important to ensure that there is enough clearance between components and the board edge. When extending past edge clearance, it is important to know how many extensions you need for the components to fit properly.

The amount of extension will depend on the size of the components, their placement relative to the edge, and any other constraints on the board. When possible, use larger pads and add a solder mask to the extended area to increase the chances of having enough clearance. Moreover, the length of any tracks and vias should be as short as possible to reduce their impact on the edge clearance.

To ensure the best results, use professional CAD software and its DRC tool to simulate the layout of your board before fabricating. This will help you to verify that all components have adequate clearance and that there are no overlapping traces. It is also important to measure the actual size of the components before laying them out to make sure they will fit properly.

When designing the board with extended clearance, the first step is to determine how much clearance is necessary. You can evaluate it by measuring the height and width of the components that will be on the board. The clearance should also take into account any extra space that assembly and rework may require.

After determining the clearance, it’s time to design the board. When laying out the board, you must ensure that any exposed edges have a minimum amount of clearance. To extend the edge clearance beyond the recommended minimum, use extended tracks. This will provide an additional amount of space between the edge of the board and the components.

When laying out the tracks, keep in mind that they must remain connected to each other. To ensure that all of the tracks are connected, you can use vias or micro vias. You can use Vias to connect different layers of a PCB, while micro vias can connect the same layer.

In the end, make sure to add a solder mask to any areas with an extended clearance. Solder mask is a protective coating that helps to prevent solder bridging and shorts between components. It also helps to protect against corrosion and improve electrical performance.

Wrap Up

Designing a printed circuit board is a complex process, as it requires precision and accuracy to create a successful product. When it comes to design, certain limitations should be considered. One of these is edge clearance, which limits how close components can be placed to the edges of the board. Fortunately, there are ways to extend past edge clearance, allowing for even more flexibility in PCB design.

Edge clearance plays an especially important role in high-speed and high-frequency designs, as it ensures that the traces are far enough apart that they don’t interfere with each other’s signals. Edge clearance also affects the signal integrity and the overall performance of the PCB. Poorly designed edge clearance can cause signal degradation, data loss, and even the destruction of the components.

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All about PC BOARD Plating Finishes

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The usage of PC BOARD is vast in electronic devices, like computers to cell phones, so their construction and design are crucial for proper operation. One of the most important aspects of PCB design is the finish of the board. There are several plating finishes available for PCBs, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. Here, we will discuss the different types of PCB plating finishes and their various applications.

Electroplating for PCB

When it comes to PCB finish, you will find electroplating at the top. It involves the use of an electric current to deposit a thin layer of metal onto the surface of the board. The metal in this case can be usually gold, silver, or copper.

The thin layer of metal acts as a protective barrier against corrosion and oxidation, and also provides electrical insulation. You can adjust the thickness of the layer to meet specific requirements. Moreover, the metal is easy to deposit in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Immersion Tin Plating

Another PCB plating finish is tin plating which involves the deposition of a thin layer of the tin onto the board. Manufacturers often prefer tin for its low cost, besides, it has excellent corrosion resistance and electrical insulation capabilities.  It is also known as white tin and copper is finished with a thin layer of tin. It is an electroless process that involves a chemical bath.

Tin plating is ideal for circuit boards being used in high-temperature environments, such as those found in automotive electronics. Generally, manufacturers use it as a soldering medium, as it is relatively soft and easy to work with.

Immersion Gold

Another plating finish for PCBs is immersion gold. This technique involves a special electroplating bath that contains gold particles. A PCB Manufacturer will put the board in this bath to attract the gold particles to the surface of the board. This process provides excellent corrosion resistance and electrical insulation. Tin plating makes a circuit board highly reliable. Gold plating is the most expensive but also the most durable. It is used mainly in high-end electronics due to superior corrosion resistance.

There are two ways to use gold, either it is soft gold or hard gold. The soft gold is wire bonded to provide better conductivity and the gold does not vanish during soldering. Soft gold plating involves current so, it is electrolytic.

On the other hand, hard gold plating involves hardeners, and it is also known as deep gold plating because the entire nickel surface is immersed in the plating tank. The process is also electrolytic as soft gold plating.

ENIG- Electroless Nickle Immersion Gold

The name is so because a thin layer of gold is there on the nickel. Before gold, manufacturers apply nickel to copper to prevent gold and copper from mixing into each other. It involves an electroless technique to apply the metallic layer on the board surface without any current. The process depends on the chemical reaction. The application of this process occurs either before soldering or after it. If you plate the entire copper with gold, it will increase the plating cost. The gold gets absorbed while soldering.

ENIG provides a smooth surface for SMD, surface mount devices, and BGA, ball grid arrays. Gold provides excellent electrical conduction.

Hot Air Solder Level-HASL-Plating Finish

This is a simple plating technique that involves molten solder. You have to dip the PCB into the molten tin and lead alloy. It is cheaper than other methods. It covers the copper surface and then you have to level the board with a hot air knife. The HASL provides you with excellent soldering surface and SMT and large parts. Don’t use it for smaller SMT, moreover, it does not suit the FTP (fine pitch technology).

It has a high processing temperature of up to 260-270˚C which can damage the board due to stress. Since it involves lead, it is not a compliant material according to RoHS standards in the U.S. it is not a good option for those who want a lead-free PCB.

Lead-Free HASL

Those who want HASL in their PCBs but avoid it due to lead can have lead-free material. The entire soldering process is as HASL excluding lead. Hence, it is compatible with RoHS so it is safer than HASL.

Anodizing for PCB

Anodizing involves the use of an electrolytic solution to deposit a thin layer of metal onto the board. Anodizing provides excellent corrosion resistance and electrical insulation, and it is ideal for boards that require a high level of performance.

Electroless Nickel Plating-ENP

It is the most common plating finish for PCBs and has good corrosion resistance and conductivity properties. It is an economical choice and provides a good bonding surface for components. The plating process involves immersing the board into a bath of salts and acids, which deposits a thin layer of nickel coating onto the board. Then you have to polish the layer to get a mirror-like finish to provide a smooth surface and enhance the electrical properties of the board.

ISP/Immersion Silver Plating

The main purpose of immersion silver is to corrosion in copper and enhance its soldering ability. However, it is not long-lasting like other finishes and should be stored in sheets to avoid tarnishing.

Silver plating provides a smooth surface for SMD, moreover, it is highly conductive. Moreover, it is free from lead and environment-friendly and can bear strong signals. You have to apply immersion silver before soldering but after etching.

OSP or Organic Surface Plating

This technique uses an organic chemical to finish the copper surface. It has a short life, so you should immediately assemble the board after its application. It provides a flat surface for pcb assembly.  Moreover, it is free from lead, so it is not toxic to the environment. The process involves a chemical bath that should be applied after other processes.

Each of these different types of plating finishes for PCBs has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to choose the one that suits your application.

Things to Consider While PCB Plating

When selecting a plating finish for a PCB, there are several factors to consider. The thickness of the plating layer, the type of metal used, and the environment in which the board will function, all should be considered while selecting the best plating finish for a PCB. For example, if you are going to use the board in a corrosive environment, gold plating may be the best choice.

Whereas, if cost is a major concern, tin plating may be the most suitable option. There are also other considerations when selecting a PCB plating finish. For example, the plating thickness should be considered, as this will affect the performance of the board. The thickness should be sufficient to provide the necessary electrical connection between the components and the board.

Moreover, you should apply the plating evenly to ensure a good electrical connection. Another important consideration is the type of surface finish as it should be compatible with the plating this is because some plating finishes require a certain type of surface finish. For example, gold plating requires a different surface finish than tin plating.

The plating should be compatible with the board components. This is important because some components may not be compatible with certain plating finishes. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a different type of plating.

Frequently Asked Question

What is PCB plating?

To have high-quality PCBs, a variety of plating finishes are there to provide protection from corrosion and wear, and to enhance the electrical conductivity of the board

What Are The Types Of Gold Plating?

There are two ways to use gold plating, either it is soft gold or hard gold. The soft gold is wire bonded to provide better conductivity. The hard gold plating process involves hardeners. Both types involve current.

What To Consider While PCB Plating?

You have to consider the thickness of the plating layer, the type of metal finish, and the environment in which the board will function.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are several types of PCB plating finishes available, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. Electroplating, tin plating, immersion gold plating, and anodizing are the four most common types of plating finishes used for PCBs. It is important to choose the type of plating finish that best suits your application, as the wrong choice could lead to poor performance or even failure of the board. Copper plating is also popular, as it provides good electrical conductivity and is relatively low-cost.

Silver plating is also used on PCBs, but it is more expensive than other options and is not as widely used. In addition to these primary finishes, there are a variety of other finishes that can be used to enhance the performance of a PCB. For example, solder masking can be used to protect against accidental soldering. This can be applied as a layer over the primary finish and helps to prevent shorts and other electrical issues.

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PCB Board Assembly Pricing Strategies

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PCB manufacturing is often costly as it involves lots of processes. Especially, some factors increase the cost, such as a large production, PCB with many vias, very small holes and traces, and a circuit board loaded with components. But, the increase in cost is non-linear, if the board quantity is double, it won’t make the total fabrication cost double. As PCB manufacturing involves both fixed and variable costs. The price per PCB reduces with a reduced order due to the tooling cost involved. Fixed costs in PCB Board Assembly include:

  • Stencil-making cost
  • Design testing
  • Tooling
  • Many others

Different pricing strategies can help you reduce assembly costs. PCB design also affects assembly cost, so focus on it. Likewise, you should select the right manufacturer, in this case. Let’s discuss some proven ways and strategies which can help you have an economical PCB.

Consider Cost While Designing a PCB

Design is the first step of any PCB, so you should do it carefully in terms of cost. You must see if your design will have standard manufacturing or not. The DFM is important in this case, as it guides you about assembly costs and how to reduce them. The following design considerations can help you have a low-cost PCB.

  • The number of layers affects the PCB cost, so more layers mean an expensive board.
  • The type of vias is another element that affects a board’s cost. If the PCB has small diameter vias, its cost will increase. Similarly, a large number of vias also increase the PCB cost. You can reduce the board price by managing the via count without compromising the board function.
  • PCBs should have an appropriate size according to the assembly equipment. The design has to be functional and cover the required area. You can add panels only if they are essential. Smart devices have small and complex PCBs which are not cheap as many people think.
  • The shape of the PCB also can increase or decrease the cost. Traditional circuit boards are either square or rectangular, and they are economical. However, PCBs having special shapes are expensive.
  • The finishing material is another factor involved in PCB pricing. The surface finish helps in a better electrical function and also makes the soldering process effective.

You can also use other design strategies to reduce the PCB cost according to your experience.

BOM is Mandatory

You must have the bill of materials ready before PCB manufacturing and smt assembly. The BOM consists of materials, components, and assembly items. Makes sure that BOM has all important entries, such as

  • The Manufacturing Firm’s Name
  • Part Numbers
  • Components Quantity
  • Reference Designators
  • Notes Or Comments
  • Package
  • BOM Level
  • Footprints
  • Components Replacement
  • Some Others

You can also use the already available BOM template provided by assemblers and it can also help you get the right quotation. Don’t forget the component replacement while preparing the BOM, as advanced electronics result in the rapid upgrades of PCB components. The assembly time might prolong if you don’t find the replacement item, so they need an evaluation before time. A fast quote can help you have your PCB assembly faster.

Know the Component Distributors

You must know where to get cost-effective and durable components for a circuit board. You can also trust the manufacturer or assembler in this regard, as they know how to get cheap components at a wholesale price. Eventually, you can have a PCB within your budget. You can also ask the manufacturer to give you the invoice for all purchases.

Learn To Manage the PCB Volume

More PCBs mean a cost-effective assembly, as you can assemble them all with the same tools. Your order can be low, medium, or high, depending on your requirements.

Manage the Lead Time

Different assemblers calculate the lead time differently, and you should know what is more effective. You should also know if PCB manufacturing will start the same day when you pay or if it’s the order day, or else. Generally, a longer lead time will reduce the PCB price.

Check For Inspection Costs

Both designers and manufacturers test a PCB to see if it works well. If you are getting a testing service, be aware that its price will affect the final price of the board. Generally, the PCB inspection increases its final cost but you can control it by getting your product inspection service from the manufacturer. Individual PCB inspecting companies can cost you more, besides, it involves more effort.

You can have a product test according to your needs and design standards to ensure that it’s exactly what you want. Some inspection methods are as below:

  • Automated optical inspection
  • Visual test
  • Automated X-ray

You can choose whatever suits you according to the nature of the Printed Circuit Board like it can be simple or complex. In the case of high-volume production, you can inspect the initial or first article before a full-volume inspection. As it reveals the issues that you can resolve in the beginning and prevent big damage. Eventually, less money would waste, and you will have an effective circuit board. It would be better to have a long-term PCB assembler, instead of changing it quite often.

Select An Economical Assembler

  • There are many firms that offer PC Board assembly and manufacturing of which some charge very high, some are normal, and some are cheap. Try to select an assembler according to your budget without sacrificing the quality of the circuit board. Make sure the company is reliable and has professionals who can well handle the entire process.
  • You must check if the assembler has a proper certification in this field or if he is just a quack. Some standard certifications in the U.S. are UL, ISO9001, RoHS, and others.
  • Make sure the assembler uses advanced tools to create an effective PCB. As SMT is popular in this regard, it should be done with the right equipment.
  • The manufacturer should be capable enough to develop all types of PCBs, as some boards have complex designs. Moreover, he should be able to handle a large volume of production.
  • Make sure you get a design from a professional, instead of getting it from the manufacturer. A professional engineer should be your choice if you want a flawless and functional circuit board.
  • The labor cost is also important, especially in hand assembly which is often higher than the automated cost. Generally, the labor cost is low in Asian countries than in the U.S. or Europe.

What Drives The Fabrication Cost Of Printed Circuit Boards?

There are some core factors that drive the fabrication cost of a PCB, so you should consider them while calculating the manufacturing price, such as:

  • The type of plating can also increase the PCB cost. Like, OSP, ENIG, or immersion silver can increase the PCB cost, by up to more than 8%. Whereas tin-lead plating has standard prices.
  • Small vias increase the per PCB and tooling price
  • Smaller conductor means more cost
  • Heavy copper increases the PCB cost
  • The substrate materials like Roger’s can increase the PCB cost, whereas FR4 is cheap.
  • However, more boards mean less cost per PCB.
  • More components per board can also decrease the PCB cost.

What Drives The Assembly Cost Of Printed Circuit Boards?

Similarly, some factors drive the assembly cost of a PCB, and you should consider them while calculating the manufacturing price, such as:

  • The quantity of unique parts also affects the PCB pricing. Such as, if the unique components are more in quantity, they will increase the assembly cost. However, you can reduce it by ordering high-volume production.
  • The type of assembly also matters in calculating the PCB pricing. SMD can cost you 50% higher than a through-hole PCB assembly.
  • A double-sided circuit board costs more than a single-sided PCB as it goes through an assembly process twice. Moreover, the NRE price is also high for a double-sided assembly.
  • The cost of a single and a double-sided BGA becomes 20% higher than SMD and it is an additional cost as the premium cost is already there.
  • Hand assembly can cost you more than machine assembly, especially in larger productions. Whereas, automated assembly won’t make the cost double if the PCB order is doubled. Generally, automated assembly involves different types of costs, including machine programming.

However, these strategies don’t end here, as there are still so many other factors that can affect the total price of a PCB. You can also follow your own experiences in this case. You can easily manage the total cost of the circuit board if you know each process well, from design to assembly and the selection of the material.

Final Thoughts

Many factors can increase the PCB cost, but you can reduce it by following various strategies. Hand assembly can cost you more than machine assembly, especially in larger productions. The type of assembly also matters, such as SMD can cost you 50% higher than a through-hole PCB assembly. You should also select an assembler according to your budget without sacrificing the quality of the circuit board.

Would like to know more about the PCB pricing strategies or printed circuit board assembly? Email us at sales@pnconline.com