Electronic devices and gadgets commonly utilize printed circuit boards (PCBs) as the foundation to mount and connect electronic components. While large electronics manufacturers may have the scale for in-house PCB production, hobbyists, academics, and small companies often need to rely on PCB manufacturers, especially when producing prototypes or low quantities. However, finding the right partner that can deliver quality, custom PCBs in low quantities can be challenging. This article will explore key factors to consider when selecting a PCB manufacturer for low quantity orders, including capabilities, services, quality, and cost.
Capabilities and Services to Look For
When evaluating potential PCB manufacturers, the first consideration should be their capabilities and services for low volume orders. Here are some key things to look for:
Low Minimum Order Quantities
Many PCB manufacturers cater more towards high volume production and may require minimum order quantities in the thousands. For prototyping or short production runs, you’ll want to find manufacturers that can accommodate 10-20 boards or even single quantities.
Flexible / Customizable Order Sizes
Rather than fixed quantities, ideal low quantity manufacturers allow you to order the exact number of boards needed. This avoids having to order more boards than necessary or not having enough.
Quick Turnaround Time
Look for manufacturers that can deliver in 1-2 weeks or less. When iterating on a design, long lead times can slow progress.
Design File Support
The manufacturer should support common PCB design file formats like Gerber, Eagle, Allegro, Cadence OrCAD, KiCad, etc.
Solder Mask & Silkscreen
These finishing touches improve aesthetics and usability of the PCB. Verify the manufacturer offers solder mask and silkscreen printing services.
Lead Time Quotes
Manufacturer should provide lead time estimates and quotes quickly based on your requirements without requiring full order commitment.
Design for Manufacturability Checks
Reputable manufacturers will do design rule checks and work with you to avoid manufacturability issues before finalizing orders.
Assembly Services
Some projects may require PCB population and turnkey assembly services. Select a manufacturer providing these services for added convenience.
Other Services
Additional services like v-scoring, routing, testing, etc. may also be desirable.
Quality Considerations
Beyond base capabilities and services, you also want a PCB manufacturer delivering consistent, high-quality boards. Here are key quality factors:
- Consistent tolerances – The traces, holes, and other PCB features should match design specifications.
- Reliable components – Quality solder mask, substrates, copper, etc. improve durability.
- Robust testing – Manufacturers should inspect boards and electrically test before shipment.
- Certifications – Look for ISO 9001 or other certs indicating adherence to quality processes.
- Reviews – Check reviews and customer references to confirm satisfying quality levels.
Cost Savings Tips
While balancing cost and quality, here are tips on getting the lowest prices on low quantity orders:
Use Standard Thickness Boards
Using standard 1.6mm boards is preferable to thinner boards which are more expensive in low quantities.
Avoid Immersion Gold
Immersion gold PCB finishing looks nice but adds substantial cost to small orders. Consider Organic Solderability Preservative (OSP) or Hard Gold plating as more economical alternatives.
Minimize Layers
Stick to single or double layer boards where possible. Each additional layer increases cost.
Simplify Shapes
Square or rectangular PCB outlines are most cost effective. Irregularly shaped boards can bump up cost.
Watch Solder Mask Color
Standard green solder mask is generally cheaper than red, yellow, black, white, or other colors.
Skip Beveled Edges
Beveled/rounded board edges are largely aesthetic at added cost. Keep edges square to save money.
Compare Shipping
Some manufacturers include shipping fees while others charge extra – factor total landed cost.
Example Low Quantity PCB Manufacturers
Many PCB manufacturers around the world cater towards prototyping and low volume orders. Here are a few reputable companies to consider across the United States, Europe, and Asia:
United States
- PCBWay – China based company with US production facility and warehouse. Offers advanced capabilities like HDI, impedence control, and fast 2 day turnaround.
- JLCPCB – China based but popular with US customers. Known for incredibly low prices but longer ~15 day lead times.
- OSH Park – US based manufacturer focused exclusively on prototype quantities starting at 3 boards. Higher quality but slightly higher prices.
Europe
- Eurocircuits – Leading European PCB manufacturer based in Austria. Capable of very fast delivery in 5-8 days.
- PCB-Pool – German company focused on prototyping and small series PCB production. Cost effective service.
- Würth Elektronik eiSos – German PCB producer within large electronics group.
Asia
- Seeed Studio – Chinese manufacturing service for PCBs and other electronics. Small MOQs and budget pricing.
- ALLPCB – China based PCB fabrication with online quotes, tracking, and design for manufacturing analysis.
- PCBCart – China PCB maker known for quick turnaround times around 48 hours in many cases.
| Manufacturer | Location | Min. Order Quantity | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCBWay | China | 10 boards | 2 days |
| JLCPCB | China | 5 boards | 15 days |
| OSH Park | USA | 3 boards | 15 days |
| Eurocircuits | Austria | 1 board | 5-8 days |
| PCB-Pool | Germany | 1 board | 8 days |
| Würth Elektronik | Germany | 10 boards | 15 days |
| Seeed Studio | China | 1 board | 15 days |
| ALLPCB | China | 10 boards | 15 days |
| PCBCart | China | 10 boards | 2 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some signs of a poor quality PCB manufacturer?
Watch out for the following red flags:
- Very low prices but vague or unwillingness to share details
- No customer reviews or references available
- Little to no design rule checks or pre-production support
- No quality certifications
- Reports of boards not matching specifications
Should I order extra PCBs to have spares or replace defective boards?
It’s generally a good idea to add 10-20% extra boards in your order to account for any defective boards in the batch or to have extras for future use. The incremental cost per board is usually very low when ordering in bulk.
How can I determine appropriate lead times for my project?
Discuss timelines with your manufacturer ahead of ordering. Allow extra time for design approvals and the possibility of having to order another round of prototypes. Understand if there are ways to expedite for faster delivery with express builds.
What design software should I use to design PCBs?
Some popular options are Eagle, KiCad, Altium Designer, OrCAD, and Cadence Allegro. Many manufacturers also provide their own free PCB design software. Choose based on features, cost, and your level of experience.
Should I pay more for quality assurance testing?
Paying a bit extra for quality testing like AOI, flying probe, boundary scan, etc. can avoid defective boards. But smaller quantities may not justify the added cost. Discuss testing needs with the manufacturer.
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