PCB FAQ

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We collect questions from different customers every day to help them answer them. We believe that this is what most people want to know, so we have compiled the following questions to help new customers understand our business.

General PCB Questions

What is a PCB?

A PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is a layered board made of insulating material with copper traces, vias, pads, and drilled holes. Components are soldered onto it to form a functional circuit

What file formats do you accept?

We accept Gerber RS‑274X, ODB++, and IPC‑2581. Gerber files include copper, mask, silkscreen, drill layers, and are usually zipped before upload

Ordering, Production & Lead Times

What is the minimum order quantity?

You can order just 1 board for 1–10 layer FR‑4 prototypes. Most fast-turn services have no minimum quantity

How long does it take to get my boards?

Standard (1–10L, FR‑4): 24–48 hours for most orders
Advanced (up to 24+ layers or exotic materials): Typically 5–7 days, depending on complexity and material stock.

How can I check order status?

You can track fabrication progress through our website dashboard. Once shipped, you receive a tracking link (e.g., via DHL)

Materials & Capabilities

What materials are available?

Standard: FR‑4 and aluminum core.
Advanced: Rogers, PTFE, metal-core hybrids, CEM‑3, halogen-free, high-TG .

What are typical layer counts?

Standard: Up to 10 layers.
Advanced: 3–16 layers standard, 18–24 layers available; beyond requires custom review

Do you support HDI, blind or buried vias?

Yes. HDI builds (stacked 1+N+1 or 2+N+2), blind/buried vias, microvias (≤ 0.10 mm) are part of our Advanced PCB service

What finishes do you offer?

HASL (with or without lead), ENIG, ENEPIG, immersion tin; gold fingers and selective plating available in advanced builds

Quality & Testing

What inspection methods are included?

All boards receive fly-probe and automated optical inspection (AOI) at no extra charge. We hold ISO 9001 and UL certifications .

Do you offer electrical testing?

Yes, with optional ICT, functional testing, and environmental stress screening available for advanced orders .

Why is electrical testing essential?

It ensures there are no shorts or opens—visual inspections alone can miss hidden defects under soldermask

Pricing & Leadtime Tips

What drives PCB cost?

Key factors: quantity, layer count, board thickness, copper weight, hole sizes, trace/space resolution, materials, advanced features like impedance control or HDI

How to reduce cost?

Simplify design where possible: fewer layers, standard trace widths (>6 mil), common drill sizes, standard materials, and finishes

Assembly & Turnkey Services

What is the difference between PCB and PCBA?

PCB = bare board (copper + substrate).
PCBA = board plus components soldered on (aka assembled board)

How do I place an assembly order?

Upload Gerber, BOM, and Pick-and-Place (PnP) files. We’ll quote adhesives and part costs. Basic SMD components are included; extended parts may add loading fees

What is the minimum pick-and-place pitch?

Our SMT lines support SMT down to 5 mil pitch, fine-pitch BGAs, and complex PCBA work

Customer Support & Policies

What if I’m not satisfied?

Report defects within 24 hours—we offer rework, refunds, or replacement boards at no extra cost

How fast will you reply to a quote request?

We respond within 24 hours for fabrication and assembly quotes

When is your support line open?

Sales and technical support are available 24/7/365, ready to assist with any order

Let’s Get Started

If you are facing engineering challenges, our team is ready to serve you. We have extensive experience and are committed to innovation. We sincerely invite you to contact us. Let’s join hands and turn your engineering challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Contact us now and let’s start a conversation.

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