FAQs
When it comes to answering your PCB manufacturing and assembly questions, AdvancedPCB is here to help. As the industry leader in on-time delivery and the third-largest printed circuit board manufacturer in America, we can help you with all aspects of PCB fabrication, from manufacturing through assembly. Expect rapid prototypes and weekend turns to provide your orders when you need them.
- Rebrand
- Assembly
- Manufacturing and Assembly
What does the rebrand mean for customers?
While the name may be changing, our commitment to our customers will not. With this latest acquisition, AdvancedPCB will evolve into the most comprehensive provider of PCBs in the country. As the result of a fusion of capabilities and opportunities, we will offer a competitive product for applications both large and small, and every interaction will be infused with our core belief that customer centricity is key. Please note: with this rebrand, there are no changes to our banking, payments, billing or shipping information.
Will the ordering process change?
Only for the better. We still maintain the unparalleled ability to turn around within one day!
Do you assemble boards fabricated by another board shop?
No. We have high quality standards and will only assemble boards ordered through AdvancedPCB. Part of what makes us unique is that we fabricate and assemble in one continuous operation with consistent quality and expedited turn-time.
Do you provide prototype assembly (low quantity)?
Yes. AdvancedPCB has no minimum order quantity requirements and can assemble even one board.
What is centroid data?
This is the machine file which should include X, Y, Theta (Rotation), Side of Board (top or bottom), and Reference Designator. This is sometimes called XYRS data (X,Y, Rotation, Side), pick and place data, or simply XY data. .XLS or .CSV formats are preferred.
For kitted/consigned orders, how do you want to receive the parts?
We need parts individually packaged and labeled with BOM line item number and either customer part number or manufacturer's part number, as well as an inventory list of components in the kit, indicating manufacturer's part number and quantity in kit. If SMT parts are not on reel, parts should be on continuous tape with a leader of no less than 6" to account for machine attrition and potential scrap.
What data do you need for a turnkey PCB Assembly order?
We need your Bill of Materials (BOM) and Component Placement List (CPL). We are also able to accept many forms of CAD data, and ODB data upon data review.
Can you do a partial PCB Assembly?
Yes we can do partial PCB assembly for both kitted/consigned orders or for turnkey.
Do you have any special requirements for BGA type components?
Component footprint should be made per manufacturer recommendations for pad size and mask clearance. All BGA type devices are required to have all vias under component tented with solder mask.
What do you do with unused parts?
We return all unused parts to the customer whether kitted/consigned or turnkey.
What does your quoted price include?
We will provide you pricing for PCB assembly. The PCB assembly pricing includes tooling, solder stencil and assembly labor for loading the components. Our turn-key quotes also show component pricing as indicated. We do not charge setup fees or NRE's for assembly.
How do you determine turn-time?
Assembly turn-time begins immediately after the PCB turn-time and when all parts and information received are complete. If consigned kits and documentation is incomplete, assembly turn-time begins when all necessary assembly information is complete and on hand. Any delays due to CAM Hold and/or technical issues will impact turn-times.
Do you provide lead-free PCB Assembly?
Yes.
What are your requirements for arrays or panelized formats?
PCB’s are required to have a format with breakaway rails of 0.5” on at least 2 opposing sides. If rails are not present we can build individual boards provided the following criteria is met: 1-up PCB size is 2”x2” (51mmx51mm) or greater, each 1-up PCB must have fiducials, fiducials must be a minimum of 0.118” (3.0 mm) from the edge of the PCB, no component can be closer than 0.196” (5.0mm) from the edge of the PCB.
What if I have problems with my loaded boards?
If after receiving your loaded boards you run into problems of any kind, contact us at once. We will evaluate the issue and repair/rework or remake as may be appropriate after determining the root cause of the problem. For any returns, we will issue you a RMA number.
What are your PCB Assembly quality standards?
Assembly builds to IPC-A-610 current rev Class 2. Class 3 and J-Std-001 are available with prior review.
How do you keep your prices low?
We keep our prices low by constantly implementing more efficient manufacturing processes, developing systems that allow us to quickly change setups, maintaining partnerships with suppliers, and conservatively managing our business.
Why can't I get a quote for a dimension less than .5"?
Our matrix is set to 0.5", enter 0.5" as the dimensional unit for quoting only. If you have a dimension less than 0.5", enter 0.5" as the dimension or call your salesperson to get a quote. If you place an order from this quote, be sure to put the actual dimensions in the COMMENTS section of the order. Your printed circuit board will be fabricated to your actual dimensions. There may be additional costs associated with your smaller dimensions.
Will you allow me to put several part numbers together and run as one printed circuit board offer?
You are welcome to panelize circuit boards together to make one order. To do this, all your files must come to us pre-panelized. However, we cannot route these into individual boards. They will be shipped to you as a tab routed array or as an un-routed array as you specify on full spec orders. Multiple parts or step and repeat of a single design are available for the $33 Each and $66 Each Specials for an additional charge of $50; however, individual or tab routing of the multiple images is not included in this service.
Under what conditions will AdvancedPCB change my requested method of shipment?
Our intent is to always ship via the carrier you choose and to use your shipping account number if provided; however, all the carriers (UPS, FedEX, and DHL) have different pickup schedules during the day and evening. Our last pickup is provided by UPS. If your order is ready for pickup after the final pickup time by your requested carrier we will change the carrier, as we assume that it is more important to you that you receive your order on time as expected rather than what carrier is used. In doing so, we will not be able to use your shipping account number. We will ship it on our account and add the shipping charges to your invoice. If you request a change to this policy, we will be glad to hold your order until the following day's scheduled pickup by your preferred carrier.
How do you define your "Standard Spec shipped on Time or Free Policy"?
a. We guarantee shipment for our Standard Spec PCBs within our Standard Spec turn times which is 3 days for double-sided and 5 days for multilayers. If we ship after these time intervals, we will upgrade the method of shipment at our expense if necessary to ensure on-time arrival to customer. If we cannot upgrade the shipping, we will, when requested by customer, provide a credit to offset the cost of the boards. For orders having partial shipments, only those boards shipped "late" qualify for the "on time or Free" policy. Excludes any other services, goods, or offerings.
b. For Standard Spec PCBs placed with expedited turn times less than these standard times and shipped late, an expedite cost credit for each day beyond the order ship date will be available to the customer up to the time when the standard turntime is exceeded. If the applicable standard turn time is exceeded, then the "Free" aspect of this policy will apply. Exceptions to policy if shipment upgrades can be made and/or partial shipments are detailed above. Excludes any other services, goods, or offerings.
b. For Standard Spec PCBs placed with expedited turn times less than these standard times and shipped late, an expedite cost credit for each day beyond the order ship date will be available to the customer up to the time when the standard turntime is exceeded. If the applicable standard turn time is exceeded, then the "Free" aspect of this policy will apply. Exceptions to policy if shipment upgrades can be made and/or partial shipments are detailed above. Excludes any other services, goods, or offerings.
What happens if UPS, FedEX, or DHL is late in delivering my order?
We work very hard to make sure all your PCB orders get shipped on time. There are occasions, however, when the freight carriers have delays and/or make shipment errors. We regret when this happens but we cannot be responsible for delays by these carriers.
Who is responsible for import fees and custom charges on international order (outside the U.S.)?
All International customers are responsible for their own custom charges and import fees on all orders.
How do you define your turn and cut off times?
The day order is processed and confirmed to the customer is counted as Day 0. 1-day turn orders, for example, ship the next business day. Same-Day orders ship same day if received and confirmed to customer NLT 8:15 AM MST M-F. "Weekend Wonder" Same Day orders received and processed on Friday (NLT 3:00 PM MST for 2-layer, and 12:00 PM MST for multi-layers) will be shipped on Saturday for Monday delivery.
Immersion Gold (ENIG) Multilayer orders (3 – 8 layers) placed for a 1-day turn must be received NLT 12:00 PM MST Monday – Friday. Immersion Gold (ENIG) orders (0-2 layers) placed for a 1-day turn must be received NLT 3:00 PM MST Monday – Friday.
Immersion Gold (ENIG) Multilayer orders (3 – 8 layers) placed for a 1-day turn must be received NLT 12:00 PM MST Monday – Friday. Immersion Gold (ENIG) orders (0-2 layers) placed for a 1-day turn must be received NLT 3:00 PM MST Monday – Friday.
If I receive a price using your online quote matrix, does that guarantee turn times & quantities?
If an order is placed online or by any other means, it is not guaranteed to be accepted by AdvancedPCB until it passes our engineering review and we verify that a customer’s receivables account is in good standing.
Online price quotation does not guarantee total order quantity and turn times. All order quantities and turn times are subject to production capacity review.
Online price quotation does not guarantee total order quantity and turn times. All order quantities and turn times are subject to production capacity review.
Do you schedule out shipments?
We will schedule out shipments over a 6-month period; however, the order will be manufactured at the discretion of AdvancedPCB to maximize Custom Spec capabilities and cost efficiencies. If for any reason this order is canceled at any time prior to the final scheduled shipment, any or all of the completed order will be subject to a cancellation fee which may be up to 100% depending on the manufacturing status at the time of cancellation. Customer is liable for all completed product quantities.
Will RoHS Lead-Free Custom Spec Boards be marked with lead-free symbol?
RoHS compliant lead-free Custom Spec boards will be marked with a lead-free symbol if requested by customer. If not specifically indicated on fab drawing or requested in separate document, the lead free symbol will not be added. No symbols of any kind are added to protos other than the work order number for fabrication identification purposes.
Does AdvancedPCB bevel gold fingers?
Yes. We do bevel gold fingers unless otherwise specified. We do NOT bevel solder fingers unless specified by customer.
What is your standard bevel on a printed circuit board?
Our standard bevel is 30 degrees leaving a .030" edge ( /-.005") on a .062" board.
Optional bevels are as follows:
45 degrees leaving .025" edge ( /-.005")
20 degrees leaving .071" edge ( /-.005")
Optional bevels are as follows:
45 degrees leaving .025" edge ( /-.005")
20 degrees leaving .071" edge ( /-.005")
What is tab route?
A tab route is used to create arrays, often called "route and retain". The customer can place more than one board (same or different design) up in a given area in an array or panelized configuration. This is typically for the convenience of the customer or for assembly requirements that utilize pick and place machines to load components. The PCB\'s are then separated by breaking or cutting the tabs. Tabs are usually 0.100" in width and are placed with at least 1 on each side of the boards.
What does "scoring" mean?
This is a "v" groove cut into the top and bottom surface of an array of multiple PCB\'s or between a board and rails to be removed after assembly. The cut is usually 1/3 top, 1/3 bottom, leaving 1/3 uncut in the middle. This process is used when removing the tabs of a tab route is not a viable option, this does result in a less smooth finished board edge. The boards are typically set up side by side and end to end with the edges adjacent to each other. After assembly the boards are broken or snapped apart.
Can you handle Controlled Impedance requirements?
Yes. Call your salesperson for more info.
Can you process my dielectric requirements?
No problem. We will run this as a custom order. Be sure to send us your core and stackup details.
What is the difference between a prototype pcb (Standard Spec) and production pcb (Custom Spec)?
The difference between proto & production is not a quantity or turntime issue, but rather has to do with the range of specs covered.
What files do you need to manufacture my printed circuit board?
We require gerber files (274X or 274D with an aperture list), an excellon drill file, and a drill tool list (may be included in excellon drill file). We can use other formats such as ODB or AutoCAD dxf to create gerbers for you.
When do I pay a tooling NRE fee for my printed circuit board?
You will only pay a Tooling charge if you go directly to Production (Custom Spec) without having ordered a Proto (Standard Spec) as a first step. We do not charge Tooling for Protos (Standard Spec) and neither do we charge Tooling if the proto (Standard Spec) is reordered for Production (Standard Spec).
If I only have a minor change in my design, do you charge Tooling NRE?
When we make any change to your printed circuit board, we assign it completely new tooling. This helps prevent old artwork or cnc programming from being used. Even a minor change will require the same process as new files, so a tooling charge may apply. Please contact your salesperson for details.
What is Test NRE?
The Test NRE is a one-time "non recurring expense" for electrical test. This charge is optional but when paid, all circuit boards will be tested each and every time that part number and revision is ordered without additional charge.
What core thicknesses does AdvancedPCB use for multi-layer circuit boards?
.003", .004", .005", .008", .010", .014", .021", .028", .039", .059", .093" cores. Please contact your representative as other thicknesses may also be available.
What is the thickest printed circuit board you can process?
.250"
What is the thinnest printed circuit board you can process?
.020" if ordered with solder HAL plating finish. Thinner if other plating options are used. Contact your salesperson for details.
What is the largest pcb you can fabricate?
37" x 120"
What do you need if I want my pcb panelized in array format?
We recommend you send us your complete array pre-panelized. This allows you to set up the array exactly the way you want it. If you need us to set up your array, please be aware that additional engineering time may be billed.
What file generating software would you recommend?
We would recommend our own exclusive FREE PCB Layout Software "PCB ARTIST". It's easy, very innovative and loaded with benefits. We will even give you your Gerber files. Download it free at www.PCBArtist.com.
Can I order a different copper weight when I go to production pcb (Custom Spec) from prototype pcb (Standard Spec)?
Yes, you can. The unit price may change but we will waive any Tooling charge.
Are your "Prototype" PCBs processed differently from your Custom Spec PCBs?
No. Our Standard Spec ("prototype") use the same premier manufacturing processes as our production (Custom Spec) circuit boards.
Are you UL "Underwriters Laboratory" approved?
Yes, you can use the following web link to access our UL registration. Underwriters Laboratory
Are you MIL-PRF-31032 and MIL-PRF-55110 approved?
Yes. AdvancedPCB is a space and fight approved supplier; our manufacturing facilities are MIL-PRF-31032, MIL-PRF-55110, ITAR registered, and DOD contracts ready.
To what acceptability standards do you build?
IPC A600 Class 2 through IPC 6012 Class 3A
What CAM software do you use?
We use Frontline's Genesis software for editing and viewing.
Can you build RF applications?
Yes. We stock several RF materials such as Rogers 4000, Teflon, and Duroid. All of the pricing is subject to change at any time without notice. We reserve the right to refuse any order at any time.
What is the thickest copper capability?
Up to 20 oz.