When it comes to electronics manufacturing services (EMS), there are a variety of assembly processes that can be used to build a finished product. One of these is known as printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), involving the mounting of electronics components to a printed circuit board (PCB). This is typically done using automated assembly equipment, allowing for a higher production volume in a shorter time frame. The final product is usually referred to as a PCB assembly or simply an assembled PCB.
Box build assembly is another method that is commonly used in a wide range of industries. As the name suggests, box build assembly involves putting together all the individual components of a product into a housing or enclosure. During box build assembly, the various parts – such as an assembled PCB – are placed onto the board and soldered into place. This overall process is critical to the functioning of the final product, and it must be performed with great care and precision.
Without proper assembly, the PCB will not function as intended and may be significantly less reliable. For this reason, it is important for companies to partner with a reputable manufacturer that has extensive experience in both box build assembly and other aspects of PCB manufacturing.
Harness Advanced Manufacturing for PCB Assembly
If you're planning a large-scale production of PCBs for a new product line, or need to prototype a new design, engaging with a professional assembly and fabrication service can significantly reduce time and cost. At PCI, our factory is equipped with solutions designed to enhance your manufacturing process, allowing for faster delivery of products to the market.
As a leading manufacturer and specialist in electronics manufacturing services, we provide companies access to a broad range of specialty equipment and automated assembly lines within our manufacturing facility. We also offer the flexibility to adjust production volumes, from low to high volume assembly, tailored to meet the precise requirements of your PCB or box build projects.
Your Choice PCBA Company
With over 50 years of experience, we provide a comprehensive suite of solutions ranging from design and development to production and assembly of PCBs. In addition to PCB and box build assembly services, we can further empower your company’s offerings with product design verification, firmware development, radio wave engineering and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About PCB Manufacturing & Assembly
What is the difference between PCB assembly and PCB manufacturing?
PCB manufacturing focuses on the creation of the printed circuit board itself and is primarily concerned with the substrate fabrication, application of a conductive layer, patterning to form circuit traces, and the addition of a protective solder mask and silkscreen. This process transforms raw materials into a ready-to-populate PCB. PCB assembly, on the other hand, involves the placement and soldering of electronics components onto this manufactured board to create a functional electronics circuit. The distinction lies in the former being a process of board creation and the latter a process of making the board operational by adding components.
What Is box build assembly in the context of EMS?
In the context of EMS, box build assembly refers to the comprehensive process of assembling the final product. This can include the integration of PCB assemblies, wiring and cable assemblies, fitting of sub-assemblies into enclosures, and the addition of custom hardware. It often extends to software programming, functional testing, and final quality assurance to ensure the product meets all operational requirements. Box build assembly represents the culmination of the manufacturing process, transitioning from individual components and PCBs to the final market-ready product.
What is PCB manufacturing, and how are quality and precision maintained throughout the fabrication process?
Quality and precision in PCB manufacturing are maintained through stringent process control, starting from the design phase with detailed Design For Manufacturing (DFM) checks. Advanced manufacturing processes like laser direct imaging (LDI) for accurate pattern transfer and automated optical inspection (AOI) during the etching process ensure precision. Material selection, including high-quality copper clad laminates and photoresist, plays a crucial role. Process parameters, such as etching and plating times, are closely monitored. Final inspection, including electrical testing and dimensional checks, verifies that the PCB meets all specifications before assembly begins.