Introduction
Printed circuit board (PCB) assembly is the process of soldering electronic components onto printed circuit boards. For makers of high-tech products like smartphones, IoT devices, industrial equipment, and medical devices, choosing a reliable PCB assembly partner is crucial.
This article reviews the top 10 PCB assembly service providers for high-tech device manufacturing based on their capabilities, quality, costs, certifications, and customer service.
Overview of PCB Assembly Process
The steps in PCB assembly include:
- PCB Population- Mounting components onto the board. This includes surface mount (SMT) devices assembled by pick-and-place machines, and through-hole parts manually inserted.
- Soldering- Soldering using reflow ovens and/or wave soldering binds components to pads.
- Cleaning- Removing solder flux residue from boards.
- Inspection- Automated optical inspection and manual visual checks verify quality.
- Testing- Testing ensures boards function as intended before shipment.
For high-volume production, SMT lines automate the assembly process for fast precision assembly. Engineers work closely with manufacturers during new product introduction (NPI) to refine assembly processes.
How PCB Assembly Service Providers Were Evaluated
To identify and rank the top PCB assembly manufacturers for high-tech devices, here are the key criteria we used:
- Technical Capabilities- Evaluating SMT line specs, component sizes, complexity of assemblies.
- Quality Processes- Assessment of process controls, inspection methods, quality certifications.
- Cost Structure- Pricing models, minimum order quantities, and design limitations.
- Production Scale- Ability to support high-volume production runs with quick turnaround times.
- Customer Service- Responsiveness to quote requests, technical expertise, and ease of communication.
- Specialization- Experience serving high-tech industries like aerospace, medical, industrial equipment, etc.
With these criteria in mind, here are the top recommended PCB assembly manufacturers for makers of cutting-edge electronic products:
- RayMing Technology - Overall Best Choice
RayMing PCB is my top overall choice for PCB assembly for high-tech devices based on their advanced technical capabilities, high-quality processes, competitive costs, and exceptional customer service.
Capabilities
- 0201 component size capabilities
- BGA, QFN, 0.4mm pitch components
- Double-sided, multi-layer, HDI, and flex/rigid-flex assembly
- RoHS compliant assembly
Quality
- IPC Class 2 and Class 3 standards
- ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified
- AOI and X-ray inspection
Cost
Low NRE charges and competitive volume pricing. Instant online quotes.
Scale
Handles small to large production runs with fast 4-day turnaround.
Customer Service
Superb technical assistance and production monitoring. 24/7 online support.
With their advanced SMT lines, rigorous quality control, responsive service and their expertise serving complex high-tech devices, RayMing is my top recommendation for medical, aerospace, industrial, and other challenging PCB assemblies.
- Advance Circuits - Best Prototype Assembly
Advance Circuits provides fast affordable assembly for prototyping small runs of high-tech PCBs during product development.
Capabilities
- 0201 components
- BGA package capabilities
- 2 to 12 layer PCBs
- Lead-free assembly
Quality
- IPC 610A Class 2 and 3 workmanship standards
- ISO 9001 certified
- AOI inspection after SMT and selective soldering
Cost
Low cost assembly service starting at $99 with their online quoting tool.
Scale
Geared for fast assembly of prototypes and small production runs.
Customer Service
Helpful sales engineers and rapid fabrication of prototype boards.
For quickly assembling a small number of prototype boards for validation, Advance Circuits is highly recommended based on their fast turnaround, online quoting, and responsive support.
- Ventec - Best Service for High-Reliability PCBs
Ventec delivers specialized assembly services for high-reliability PCBs used in aerospace, defense, and other rugged applications.
Capabilities
- BGA, 0201 and uBGA components
- High layer count and HDI assemblies
- Flex and rigid-flex PCB capabilities
- RoHS and REACH compliant
Quality
- AS9100 and Nadcap accreditation
- IPC Class 2 and 3 manufacturing standards
- Full material traceability
- X-Ray inspection
Cost
High but competitive for aerospace-grade quality. Detailed quotes upon request.
Scale
Low to mid volume production.
Customer Service
Aerospace experts provide comprehensive support.
For defense contractors and companies building ruggedized electronics, Ventec is my top recommendation for their experience delivering high-reliability PCB assemblies that meet stringent compliance requirements.
- Calumet - Widest Range of Assembly Services
Calumet offers the most comprehensive range of value-added PCB assembly services to simplify high-volume production.
Capabilities
- 01005 components and BGAs with 0.5mm pitch
- Double-sided to complex multilayer assemblies
- design-for-manufacturing guidance
Quality
- IPC Class 2 and 3 assembly quality
- ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified
- AXI, SPI and 3D inspection
Cost
Volume discounts offered. Detailed quotes provided.
Scale
Ideal for large production runs.
Customer Service
Supply chain services like kitting and shipping management.
For streamlining assembly production, Calumet provides the most services including sourcing components, kitting, and shipping. Their expertise makes them ideal for complex assemblies manufactured at high volumes.
- Sierra Circuits - Leading US-based Assembly
Sierra Circuits provides advanced assembly services from their US facilities with stringent quality standards.
Capabilities
- 0201 chips, 0.4mm BGA and CSP components
- Multi-layer high density PCB capabilities
- Conformal coating and potting
Quality
- IPC Class 2 and 3 standards
- ITAR registered
- X-ray inspection of BGAs
Cost
Higher pricing but competitive for US-based assembly with tight tolerances.
Scale
Mid to high volume production capacity.
Customer Service
Domestic facilities provide responsive support.
For makers requiring American-made assembly of complex boards, Sierra Circuits is my top recommendation based on their stringent quality assurance and responsive team of experts.
- Imagineering - Fastest Prototype Assembly
Imagineering offers ultra-fast assembly turnaround times ideal for prototyping before high-volume production.
Capabilities
- 01005 components
- BGA down to 0.8mm pitch
- Flex, rigid-flex, and multilayer boards
Quality
- IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3 workmanship
- ISO 9001 certified
- AOI PCB inspection
Cost
Higher costs due to fast turnaround but competitive for capabilities.
Scale
Best for prototyping small batches.
Customer Service
Engineers support prototype design reviews.
When fast turnaround is critical, Imagineering is my top choice for their rapid assembly of even complex boards thanks to their US-based facilities with advanced assembly technology.
- Orbit Electronics - Complete End-to-End Solution
Orbit Electronics provides full PCB fabrication, assembly, and box build services, making them a turnkey manufacturing solution.
Capabilities
- 0201 and 01005 components
- BGA down to 0.5mm pitch
- Double-sided through complex multilayer PCBs
Quality
- IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3
- ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and AS9100 certified
- AOI and functional testing
Cost
Competitive pricing with assembly quoting tools.
Scale
All volumes from prototyping to high-volume production.
Customer Service
Single point of contact for complete manufacturing services.
For end-to-end PCB manufacturing and assembly services, Orbit Electronics is my top recommendation for their breadth of capabilities, certifications, and one-stop-shop convenience.
- Quick Turn Circuits - Fast Mid-Volume Assembly
Quick Turn Circuits provides rapid assembly services for midsized production runs of high-tech boards.
Capabilities
- 0201 components and fine pitch BGAs
- Flexible and rigid-flex PCB assembly
- Design for manufacturing guidance
Quality
- IPC-A-610 Class 2 & 3 manufacturing standards
- ISO 13485 certified
- AOI and X-Ray inspection
Cost
Online quoting & low cost NREs to start. Seasonal discounts.
Scale
Mid-volume production runs.
Customer Service
Prototype support and dedicated program management.
When you need consistently executed mid-volume PCB assembly with quick delivery, I highly recommend Quick Turn Circuits for their combination of rapid turnaround, quality assurance, and attentive customer support.
- Asteelflash - Global Assembly Services
Asteelflash provides global end-to-end manufacturing with assembly factories worldwide offering lower costs.
Capabilities
- 0201 components and BGAs down to 0.4mm pitch
- HDI and high layer count capabilities
- Conformal coating
Quality
- IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3
- ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 13485
- Vision inspection systems
Cost
Low cost assembly with overseas pricing.
Scale
High-volume production across global sites.
Customer Service
Dedicated program management and engineering support.
For low-cost high-volume assembly with global production facilities, Asteelflash is my top recommendation based on their worldwide manufacturing and supply chain expertise.
- Absolute EMS - Full Testing Services
Absolute EMS provides turnkey assembly combined with complete testing services.
Capabilities
- 0201 components, microBGAs
- Double-sided to complex multilayer PCBs
- Conformal coating services
Quality
- IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3 workmanship
- ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified
- Vision inspection systems
Cost
Mid-range pricing with instant assembly quotes.
Scale
Mid to high volume production.
Customer Service
Robust engineering support and testing services.
For SMT assembly combined with thorough testing of finished boards, I recommend Absolute EMS based on their full-service process and engineering assistance.
Key Considerations When Selecting a PCB Assembly Partner
Here are the most important factors OEMs should evaluate when choosing an EMS partner for their high-tech product:
Technical Expertise - Look for assembly experience specifically related to your industry like medical, aerospace, computing, etc. and technical capability producing complex boards.
Quality Systems - Review their process qualification, inspection methods, quality certifications, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Cost Structure - Understand their pricing model (hourly vs piece rate), minimum order quantities, and how design choices affect cost.
Production Scale - Ensure they can flexibly support runs aligning with your product's lifecycle from prototypes to high-volume production.
Supply Chain Capability - Services like component sourcing, kitting, and shipping simplify production.
Customer Service - Gauge responsiveness and technical expertise by requesting sample quotes, asking technical questions, and communicating your vision for a partnership.
Conclusion
For electronics companies developing leading-edge connected devices, partnering with a PCB assembly service provider having advanced technical expertise, stringent quality control, and robust customer support is key to creating successful products. This article reviewed the top 10 EMS firms recommended for the specialized assembly services required when manufacturing high-reliability, feature-rich designs. Factors like certifications, inspection capabilities, supply chain management services, and experience serving challenging end markets were considered in these recommendations. We hope this guide aids engineering teams in selecting the ideal assembly partner to collaborate with on current and future high-tech product introductions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are examples of high-tech electronic products requiring PCB assembly services?
Some examples of high-tech devices include:
- Smart phones, tablets, and wearable technology
- Internet of Things (IoT) connected devices
- Aerospace and defense electronics
- Medical devices and equipment
- Automotive sensors and powertrain components
- Industrial robotics and automation equipment
- High-performance computing hardware
What role does an EMS partner play in new product introduction (NPI)?
EMS partners provide important support during NPI including:
- Design for manufacturing guidance during product development
- Building and validating prototype boards
- Assisting with first article inspections
- Providing test development services
- Ramping up volume production
- Supply chain management and logistics
Their expertise and feedback helps ensure a smooth transition from product development into production.
How can EMS providers help ensure reliable PCB assemblies?
Reliability best practices offered by EMS partners include:
- Stringent process controls during assembly
- Utilizing certified components from approved vendors
- Comprehensive inspection methods like X-ray and AOI
- Qualification testing on new assemblies
- Monitoring key process indicators
- Skilled technicians assembling boards
- Continual improvement programs
What benefits can domestic vs overseas assembly provide?
Benefits of domestic (vs offshore) PCB assembly include:
- Faster delivery times
- Closer collaboration and communication
- More control and IP protection
- Assurance of production labor/ethics
- Less time zone challenges
Benefits of overseas assembly include:
- Lower labor costs
- High-volume production capabilities
- Proximity to component supply chains
How can EMS providers help with supply chain management?
EMS providers can assist with supply chain activities like:
- Vetting and managing approved vendor lists
- Sourcing and procuring components
- Managing inventory including bonded stock
- Kitting components for simplified production
- Advising on component obsolescence risks
- Managing shipments and logistics
Their supply chain expertise simplifies production coordination.
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