Introduction
For hardware engineers and startups, the ability to quickly fabricate printed circuit boards is imperative to accelerate prototyping and product development. Partnering with a PCB fabrication service capable of delivering boards in 3-5 days enables faster design validation and testing. This guide covers how to select the right quick turn PCB fabrication partner.
Capability Range
Evaluate if the potential partner’s capabilities meet your needs:
Layer Count
| Layers | Complexity |
|---|---|
| 2-8 layers | Suitable for simpler, low-mid complexity boards |
| 10-20 layers | Needed for more complex designs |
| 20+ layers | Extremely high complexity boards |
Choose a shop able to produce the layer counts required now and in the future.
Line Width/Space
The smaller the trace width and spacing, the higher the circuit density possible.
| Line/Space | Description |
|---|---|
| 6 mil | Only useful for simple boards |
| 4 mil | Allows moderately high density |
| 2 mil or less | Needed for advanced boards |
Solder Mask Type
LPI (liquid photoimageable) solder mask offers superior durability, resolution and aesthetics compared to dry film types.
Advanced Materials
Quick turn shops should offer material options beyond standard FR-4 like Rogers, Arlon, polyimide etc.
Quality Processes
Quality must not be sacrificed for faster delivery. Look for:
- IPC Certification – IPC-6012 and IPC-A-610 certification indicates adherence to industry standards.
- Testing – Electrical, flying probe, and boundary scan testing to validate fabricated boards.
- AOI Inspection – Automated optical inspection to identify defects human inspectors could miss.
- Engineering Review – Analysis by engineers prior to fabrication to resolve any issues in the design data.
- First Pass Yield – Percentage of boards passing testing the first time indicates consistency.
- Test Coupons – Inclusion of test points on panelized boards enables quality measurement.
Value-Added Services
The best quick turn PCB fabrication partners offer services like:
Assembly
Component population services for printed boards including:
- SMT Assembly – Populating PCBs with surface mount components
- Thru-hole Assembly – Manual soldering of leaded components
- Complete Box Build – Multi-board assemblies and cabling
DFM Analysis
Reviewing designs prior to fabrication for manufacturability and providing optimization feedback.
Testing Services
Assistance with test fixture design, test plan development, and performing functional testing on populated boards.
Supply Chain Management
Sourcing and procuring required components for SMT assembly and kitting services.
Location Proximity
For the fastest turnaround, use a PCB fabrication service located in your region:
- North America for companies in USA and Canada
- Europe for companies in EU region
- Asia for companies located in APAC region
This avoids long shipping times from boards fabricated overseas.
Lead Time Capability
Look for partners offering:
- Standard lead times of 3-5 days
- 2-3 day expedited services
- 24-48 hour rush services for urgently needed boards
Avoid shops with lead times exceeding 7 days.
Summary
Partnering with the right quick turn PCB fabrication service enables validating designs in less than a week. When selecting among potential partners, prioritize quality, capabilities, value-added services, and fast delivery. Investing effort to qualify suppliers will accelerate future prototyping and product development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main advantages of using a dedicated quick turn fabrication service versus a generic PCB manufacturer?
A: Quick turn specialists offer:
- Faster standard and expedited lead times.
- Processes optimized specifically for quick-turn orders.
- Lower minimum order quantities.
- Higher prioritization for prototyping work.
- More experience with urgent on-demand fabrication.
- Services aimed at supporting rapid prototyping.
Q: What risks are associated with choosing the cheapest quick turn PCB fabrication shop?
A: Risks of choosing the cheapest option:
- Lower quality standards and lack of testing.
- Less financial stability and supply chain robustness.
- Fewer value-added services beyond bare boards.
- Overreliance on outsourcing without full control.
- Lack of consistency and repeatability.
- Potential delays on urgently needed orders.
Q: What certifications should I look for when evaluating quick turn PCB fabrication partners?
A: Key certifications to look for:
- IPC-6012 Qualification to IPC’s PCB fabrication standard.
- IPC-A-610 Certification for assembly quality requirements.
- ISO 9001 Certified quality management processes.
- ITAR Registration for defense and military projects.
- IPC Membership demonstrating engagement and commitment.
Q: What questions should I ask potential quick turn PCB fabrication partners?
A: Important questions to ask:
- What are your standard and expedited lead times?
- What additional services do you offer beyond fabrication?
- What certifications and quality processes do you have?
- How do you ensure consistent on-time delivery?
- Can your engineers review designs for feedback?
- What are your quality performance metrics and history?
- Do you have processes optimized for prototyping?
Q: What tips help get the best results when using quick turn PCB fabrication?
A: Tips for best results:
- Engage the fabricator early in the design stage for feedback.
- Clearly communicate all requirements and expectations upfront.
- Build a relationship with your account manager for support.
- Review designs thoroughly for manufacturability before submitting.
- Immediately inspect boards upon receipt to catch any issues.
- Provide thorough feedback after each prototyping iteration.
- Share your overall product roadmap and forecast needs.
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