How much does a PCB prototype Cost?

By | Date posted: | Last updated: January 12, 2023
pcb prototype cost

If you are considering a new product launch, a PCB prototype must be on your agenda. Not only do prototypes help to speed up the process and reduce the amount of rework required, importantly they help in timely identification of issues. With a PCB prototype, you can iron out any inconsistencies at an early stage, saving you from dealing with costly errors later.

First, let’s find out the factors affecting PCB prototype cost.

Factors that determine PCB prototype cost

A PCB prototype clearly is not a one-size-fits-all. There are several considerations that need to be considered which impact the cost of the prototype. These include:

  • Size of the Board.
  • Material used.
  • Complexity of the board – It makes sense that the more complex the board with high component density, the higher its cost.
  • Quick turnaround time – If you are looking at rapid PCB prototyping and have stringent deadlines, the costs would be impacted.

You may also like to understand PCB prototype quote process!

Price range for PCB prototypes

Since a PCB prototype is not really a one-size-fits-all, standard is also the cost. You could have a scenario where the prototype costs you a few dollars & a scenarios where the bare board alone more than hundreds of dollars may be. It is the size, the complexity, material, the kind of timelines & more that go into the cost of the prototype.

The one other factor that impacts the cost is the number of prototypes required. As a thumb rule, the less the number, the higher the cost! If you have a requirement for a large batch, the cost is likely to be lower. The time taken to prototype is also a determinant of the cost.

Based on your bespoke requirements, your assembler will be in the best position to offer you a customized quote.

Benefits of PCB Prototypes

1. Speed Up PCB Manufacturing

They speed up the design & manufacturing process as they enable design teams to test the design and figure out any issues. Importantly, they also make sure that rework is minimized & that a faulty product does not go all the way to production. With a quick turnaround PCB assembly, be sure stand to reap competitive advantage as your go-to-market is that much quicker.

2. Avoid Costly Errors

It makes sure you have the input of a professional PCB prototyping service who can point out any issues in design. Besides the prototyping service is fully equipped with industry best practices that can make sure that you do not have to reinvent the wheel.

3. Avoid Environmental Hazards

PCB Prototypes ensure that they undergo robust functional testing including ensuring that they can survive environmental conditions such as variations in temperature, power, shock resistance, and more. Prototype PCBs also test single functions. This helps to identify design issues allowing accurate adjustments.

4. Reduce Production Cost

Prototypes go a long way in reducing production costs as they help to catch any design issues early and you do not have to resort to an expensive fix. Also prototyping allows the design team to test out several permutations and determine product adjustments, thereby both improving product quality and reducing costs.

YOU MAY ASLO LIKE: Choose Best PCB Prototype Service

Choosing the Right PCB Prototype Partner

It is imperative that you choose the right PCB prototype partner. You need to make sure that the partner offers you competitive prices. The PCB prototype manufacturer has the necessary expertise as well as the right relationships with part manufacturers to offer you a competitive price. A word of caution here though- low cost should not come at the expense of quality. Also, an extremely low cost could actually be a red flag for you, as you should not land up in a situation where low initial costs come with poor product quality that demands several reworks.

Other than looking at the cost-effectiveness of the offering, it is important to verify that the partner can offer you quality products, quick turnaround time, and cater to the prototype order quantities as per your requirement.

Due emphasis on all these aspects will ensure that you are assured of the right product at the right price point!

Technotronix is skilled and professional PCB manufacturer with 40 years of experience who provides PCB prototyping services to various industries including aerospace, electronics, telecommunication, medical and automobile sectors. Email us at sales@technotronix.us or fill out the form below to request a free quote now.

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What is the difference between full spec standard PCB production and PCB prototyping?

By | Date posted: | Last updated: November 12, 2022
PCB Prototyping and full spec production

PCB Prototyping and full spec production are processes that are part of a continuum. Essentially, the process of PCB production begins by creating a design, which is then prepared on a board layout and then tested by way of prototypes. The initial tests help with ironing out any issues involved with prototype, so that the product can be put through final production. Let us look at both the processes and the difference between them, in some detail:

PCB Prototyping

The biggest advantage that PCB prototyping offers is that it allows you to test the concept before you commit to mass production. Not only does it help to maintain the reliability of the circuit board, it also helps you to remain competitive. In fact, PCB prototyping allows you to develop boards to the exact specifications and test them so as to avoid costly errors in the future. Any flaws discovered at the stage of the prototype, whether it is in terms of design or manufacturing defects, can be easily addressed. Simply put, the prototype ensures that the design is indeed worth putting into a full production run.

At this stage an experienced PCB manufacturer who specializes in PCB prototyping is the need of the hour. An experienced manufacturer is armed with industry best practices and can ensure that the design works as it is intended. The prototyping stage, thus, is clearly beneficial in working out any errors before investments in any large production runs, is made.

Also checkout : Fast PCB prototype in the USA

The benefits that PCB prototyping offers are as below:

  • It makes it possible to test the design and correct any defects early.
  • It improves time-to-market. Even though going through several iterations sounds like it can create lengthy timelines, the fact remains that as a whole PCB prototyping helps speed up the design and manufacturing process. This is made possible on account of the fact that it takes away the guesswork, and it also minimizes rework. In fact with prototypes, you can see and test the board before the full production run, thereby minimizing time spent on redesigns once a large production run has been made.
  • It proves to be cost-effective as you tend to save on potential costly errors. In other words, a prototype allows you to fail fast and also fail inexpensively.
  • It offers opportunities for iteration and innovation, thus improving functionality. With a prototype you tend to gather accurate requirements that go a long way in making the final design, robust.
  • It lends itself to small batch production that helps in testing quality. In fact, a functional prototype can help to address any challenges in the design. These solutions can then be applied when you move to the stage of full production. At the prototype stage, you can do several different iterations and thereafter benchmark the resulting performance.
  • With a functional prototype, what you also tend to gain is the probability of your idea being funded.
  • A prototype also demonstrates “reduction to practice.” Also, through the prototyping process, you tend to develop a number of aspects such as patent drawings and the inventor’s logbook, which in turn, make it easier to file for patents.

Also checkout benefits of Prototype PCB manufacturing in details.

Full Spec Production

Once the efficacy of the prototype is established i.e the prototype meets the performance requirements, a full spec production schedule begins. With full spec production you are typically working on a large volume. With prototyping already done and issues ironed out, this stage tends to be far smoother. Also, once it has been successfully established that the basic prototype boards are working well, the PCB design can be further enhanced to improve functionality.

Some of the scenarios in particular, where a full spec production must necessarily be preceded with a prototype include:

  • If the project involves a new design or function.
  • If the project is particularly complex and has multiple components.
  • Where extensive testing is required.
  • Where you need a visual representation of a physical design.

Given the differences between the two, you sure need to choose the right PCB contract manufacturer who can offer you low volume prototypes with quick turnaround times and when you are ready to move to the full production stage, also have the capacity to cater to large production runs.

At TechnoTronix, we combine state-of-the-art technology with our advanced engineering to deliver unmatched quality and service. With PCB prototyping and consistent delivery of high-quality PCBs, we offer a robust source of competitive advantage to our clients. Visit to know more about PCB prototyping service and feel free to contact us at sales@technotronix.us.

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LED printed circuit boards: Everything you need to know!

By | Date posted: | Last updated: August 13, 2022
LED Printed Circuit Boards

An electronics related project will often require the use of light-emitting diodes. It is here that an LED PCB comes in extremely handy.

What is an LED printed circuit board?

An LED PCB is a printed circuit board that is made for LED circuits where a large amount of heat is generated. These are metal based PCBs and their substrate is often aluminum since it is high on thermal conductivity. LED printed circuit boards are made up of a thermally conductive material where heat is dissipated quickly.

In terms of design, it has one or more LEDs that are soldered to an aluminum-based board. Additionally it also has heat sinks & a chip.

LED printed circuit board Materials

In choosing the LED PCB substrate the one thing that needs to be carefully considered is its thermal performance. Some of the additional aspects that need to be considered include:

  • Weight
  • Size
  • Cost

Some of the options when it comes to the choice of LED PCB substrate include

  • FR4 PCB Raw Material
  • CEM-1 PCB Raw Material
  • CEM-3 PCB Raw Material

Advantages of using LED printed circuit boards in electronics

Some of the benefits of using LED circuit boards include:

  • They are lightweight & come in a small size. In the current milieu where miniaturization is the name of the game, they come in extremely handy. That they do not add to the weight of the circuitry is an added perk.
  • They are known to consume less power. In fact they are known to use as much as 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.
  • They have a long time span & hence you do not have to deal with replacement costs.
  • They do not dissipate large amount of heat. An LED PCB therefore adds greatly to the efficiency of your project.
  • Importantly, it is easy to integrate LED PCBs (Printed Circuit Board) into complex projects. That they do not require a large amount of circuitry as well as expertise is a definite advantage.
  • The fact that LED PCBs are dust & moisture resistant adds to their efficiency.
  • They are mercury free. Hence you can rest assured that you are not adding toxic materials to the environment.
  • They do not emit Radio Frequency waves & hence do not interfere with other electronic devices. With the use of LED PCB (Printed Circuit Board) you do not have to worry about RF interference.
  • Their long life also means that you are creating far less waste.
  • They are available in a wide variety of colors as well as sizes. Importantly, you can also customize the dimensions as per your bespoke requirements.
  • They optimize operational costs & help you save money in the long run

Applications of LED printed circuit boards

On account of the above reasons, LED printed circuit boards find application in a wide variety of industries, including but not limited to:

  • Consumer Lighting- In fact this is the very first application of LED PCBs that comes to mind. From flashlights to lamps & solar-powered lighting, the use of LED PCBs is ubiquitous
  • Consumer Electronics- Besides Consumer Lighting, LED PCBs find application in other consumer electronics such as:
    • Computers
    • Smartphones
    • Televisions
    • Tablets, and more

Aluminum PCB LEDs are particularly useful since they can transfer hear & such equipment is heat sensitive.

  • Telecommunications – In the telecommunications industry the use of LED PCBs is prevalent on account of a wide variety of factors. Some of them include the fact that they can transfer heat, they are known to be durable & more.
  • Transportation – LED PCBs are found in vehicles in terms of headlights, brake lights, indicators & more. Other than vehicles, it finds extensive application in street lighting, traffic lights etc. LED PCBs are also found in air landings as well as running lights.
  • Medicine – Right from hospital lighting to lighting used for surgeries, PCB LEDs are widely used.

To sum up

While LED PCBs come with several advantages, it is important to remember that designing an LED circuit comes with special requirements. It is important therefore to determine that the design of the PCB works for your LED application. For the same reason it is important to work with the right electronics contract manufacturer who understands these issues & can help avoid costly mistakes.

At Technotronix, we are fully equipped to handle your LED PCB manufacturing requirements. With over four decades of experience in delivering high-quality, on-time, competitive price products, you can bank on us for your PCB requirements. In case you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email at sales@technotronix.us or call us at 714/630-9200.

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Build a New Product quickly with PCB Assembly Prototyping – A Brief Guide!

By | Date posted: | Last updated: October 1, 2021
PCB assembly prototyping

Before you start a full production run, you want to be sure that your PCB is functioning correctly. After all you cannot afford costly errors where a PCB fails after full production or worse still you detect the fault after you send out the product into the market.

Creating a prototype ensures that any problems that can pose a threat to the final product’s functionality are weaned out early. In fact, multiple PCB prototype runs can be made to test a single function.

There are several types of PCB prototypes that can test various aspects. Some of these include:

  • Visual Models: These are made in order to illustrate the physical aspect of the design.
  • Proof-of-concept prototypes: They are used to test the minimum viability of the product without displaying all its competencies
  • Working prototypes They have all the features of the final product and can be used to test its functioning.
  • Functional Prototype: They resemble the final product closely.

In terms of PCB Assembly, there are two ways to produce prototypes. These include:

  • Through-Hole assembly techniques that are hand-built
  • Surface Mount Technology

While SMT (Surface Mount) manufacturing has a number of advantages including accommodating smaller components, components placed on both sides of the board and being less impacted by vibration, at the prototype stage very often through-hole technology is used since you are looking at small production runs. This technology also works where time is of constraint and resources are limited. However it is suited for less complex designs.

Overall PCB Prototyping helps in building a new product quickly on account of the following:

  • It allows for changes in design. If you feel that the design does not seem to work for you, changes can be easily incorporated.
  • Any troubleshooting is easy to do. That means you do not have to deal with costly errors at a later date. With a prototype you can undergo robust testing to ensure that it is working the way you have envisaged it to.
  • It ensures quality as you are ensuring that you use the most efficient technology.
  • It allows for new product testing and revisions before production begins.
  • It allows for reduced timelines. This is made possible since it takes out the guesswork and also minimizes rework.
  • It offers the ability to test components individually. This is especially important for complex projects.

As soon as the PCB prototype has proven its capability to meet the intended performance and quality requirements, a full production run can be immediately undertaken.

To PCB prototype or not?

It is clearly important to take a long-term view and not look at prototypes as an additional cost. In the absence of prototyping you tend to make costly mistakes that could even cost you the company reputation. Depending on whether you are looking at developing a product from scratch or making small adjustments to an existing product, your approach to prototyping will vary.

If you are reasonably sure of the manufacturability of the product, you could focus on speed and cost-effectiveness. However, if it is an innovative design and particularly a complex board, prototyping is the need of the hour as it optimizes board quality, optimizes expenses as well as optimizes the time to market. It is important to remember that with complex designs early failures can be inexpensive. If by chance you are stuck with an unfeasible idea you need not come to this realization after investing sizeable resources in the project. Also early prototypes offer more time to understand the technology. Any unseen technical challenges can be addressed timely and adjustments can be made before the product releases.

If you are seeking funding, once again prototypes come in handy in presenting a minimum viable product to investors. Last but definitely not the least, early prototyping also helps you in filing patents quickly. With a prototype, you can save your intellectual property rights from infringement.

To sum up

A PCB Prototype is a powerful tool that expedites new product launches while offering benefits of cost-saving. Importantly a reliable prototype is equal to a reliable product.

It is important however, that you choose the PCB prototype manufacturer with care. The right partner will not only assist you in developing your product, they will share important industry best practices that will save you the time and effort of reinventing the wheel.

We assure you to deliver high-quality circuit boards by providing custom prototyping services with the multilayered quick-turn prototype, chips, testing, and others. Our focus is to fulfill every requirement of multichannel industries like defense, IoT (Internet of Things), Aerospace, Electronics, Medical, Telecommunication and many more.

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