Top Factors to Consider while Choosing Large PCB Prototypes Manufacturing Service!
When you are looking at a circuit board that is more than 12 inches wide, what you are technically looking for, is a “large” PCB prototype. Besides their size, large boards are also characterized with a number of other distinctive features, primary among them being:
- Significant number of layers
- Large number of connectors
The above issues, in turn, impact the PCB assembly process, making large PCB prototype manufacturing, a highly specialized job. Let us look at all the factors that need to be taken into consideration in manufacturing large PCB Prototype boards, in some detail:
Pace of PCB Fabrication
Choosing the right vendor is crucial when dealing with large PCB prototypes, as the pace of PCB fab can be significantly affected. If the printed circuit board exceeds standard industry sizes and the vendor lacks the expertise, it can slow down the fabrication process. In today’s competitive market, where time-to-market is a critical advantage, delays in printed circuit board fabrication can be a major setback. These delays can push back your project deadlines and negatively impact your overall efficiency. Therefore, it’s essential to select a vendor skilled in handling large-scale printed circuit board fabrication to ensure timely and efficient delivery.
Large number of layers
While the typical layer count in a PCB ranges from 2-4 layers, 6-10 layers and 12 plus layers, large PCBs come with a significantly larger layer count. This requires a very specialized supplier to do the job, else the process can turn out to be very slow.
Cost
Typically since large PCBs do not fit on traditional panel sizes that the supplier usually works on, the cost per unit goes up.
Thermal impact
With a large PCB, what we are talking about is higher number of power and ground planes. This, in turn, means not just more solder material but also greater heat requirement. The thermal impact leads to higher time requirement, when it comes to solder reflow profile optimization.
Number of connectors
A large PCB Prototype comes with increased number of connectors. What this implies is that the testing mechanism needs to be robust to ensure that the PCB is working fine. This also means far more time spent in testing.
All of the above factors require that you choose a partner who has extensive experience in handling large PCB Prototype boards. In choosing the electronic contract manufacturer, be sure that you do due diligence around the following aspects:
- First up, check for their manufacturing processes. Essentially their processes should be able to account for the thermal impact that large boards require
- The other thing to look for is what kind of testing capabilities they have. Robust testing of a large board is the greatest prerequisite for its success.
- It is also important to check for turnaround times as that can be a big source of competitive advantage.
- It will also be a good idea to look for client testimonials. Nothing can tell you more about the expertise of the contract manufacturer than a satisfied client.
What you need above everything else is a contract manufacturer who is aware of the industry best practices and can proactively anticipate any issues that arise when it comes to large PCB prototypes. They should be able to work through all the challenges and provide solutions that work well. With the experience and expertise of the contract manufacturer by your side, you can rest assured of the success of your product.
At Technotronix, we combine state-of-the-art technology with our advanced engineering to deliver unparalleled quality and service. Not only do have expertise in a wide range of industries such as defense, industrial, and medical, we also have years of experience in dealing with large PCB boards. We are known for our advanced production techniques especially when it comes to multi-layered PCBs. With quick prototyping and consistent delivery of high-quality products, we offer a robust source of competitive advantage to our clients. With our four decades of experience, you can rest assured that we are cognizant of the industry best practices and will keep you ahead of the curve. Little surprise then, that when it comes to quality products at competitive prices, our clients completely trust our expertise. What you get from us are progressive solutions that are cutting-edge.
At Technotronix, we combine state-of-the-art technology with our advanced engineering to deliver unparalleled quality and service. With fast PCB prototyping and consistent delivery of high-quality PCBs, we offer a robust source of competitive advantage to our clients. With our four decades of experience, you can rest assured that we are cognizant of the industry best practices and will keep you ahead of the curve. Visit to know more about Large PCB prototype service and feel free to contact us. Also, you can drop an email to us at [email protected].