Before you get started with PCB manufacturing process, you are likely to get multiple quotes for various companies. Before finalizing the quotes, you should make sure that you understand the quotes that you receive fully. If this is your first time then you are very likely to be clueless when you receive the quote. Here are a few important factors for you to pay attention to when reviewing your quote.

PCB manufacturing process involves multiple steps and each step contributes to the total cost. The first step is the PCB Design and layout and when you get your quote, check how much your service provider has quoted for this aspect. If you are comparing multiple quotes, check how much the other companies are quoting for the same aspect of PCB manufacturing process.

The next step is PCB prototype building. This is likely to be one of the most expensive aspects of your quote. As the PCB manufacturing company has to handle single unit manufacturing while building the prototype, the cost is likely to be high for a single unit production. Once the PCB prototype is tested and approved, you need to go for PCB printing. Depending on the total volume of the boards to be printed the cost will vary. Higher the volume, lower the cost per piece.

The next important step involved is the PCB assembly and this process has other processes such as PCB assembly components sourcing. Depending on the nature of your PCB you are building, the component cost would vary. Your manufacturer should use the highest quality PCB components. When you get a quote, you need to find out what type of components would be used by your manufacturer? This will have a great say on the overall quote. If you are getting a cheaper quote, you need to find out where the price is quoted less and whether it would have any negative impact on the quality of the PCBs manufactured.

 Mass production of PCB is the final step in the PCB manufacturing process. Depending on the volume of the PCBs you need, the cost would vary. You need to find out how the cost factor is affected when you increase the order volume. Volume based pricing will vary from one manufacturer to another. You are therefore required to pay attention to this part of the quote as well when comparing the quotes.

By systematically checking your quote, it is possible to make well-informed choices. Take your time to review the quotes as closely as possible. You need to be sure that the price you are paying is very reasonable and at the same time your PCB quality should not be compromised at any cost. When you ensure these basics, you will be happy with your selection. Along with the quote, you may also want to check the credibility of the manufacturer.

If you have not already sent out the quote requests, it is high time that you get started right away.