However, as the demand for electronic devices increased, there became a need to automate the process of manufacturing the boards. Unfortunately, it was soon found that using automation would be difficult. It was not easy to get the right components and leads matched up with the right holes. It ended up taking a long time and costing a lot of money. Therefore, surface mounted technology was created to make things easier from the design to the assembly.

Surface mount technology offers a host of advantages and benefits, and over the past several decades, it has become the standard for manufacturing PCBs. Let’s look at some of the biggest benefits that it can offer.

Smaller Size and Greater Design Flexibility

One of the most commonly cited benefits is that surface mount technology means it’s possible to create smaller PCB designs. This is because you can increase the component density on the board. More of the components can be placed in a smaller space but will still provide the capabilities and performance of a larger board.

This means that the devices that will eventually contain the printed circuit boards can be smaller, as well. Smaller electronic devices and smaller boards are always important. It often means that a device that is complex can fit in a person’s pocket, such as their smartphone. People tend to like going smaller with most types of technology.

This also means that the weight of the boards will be lower. The lower weight provides even more possibilities for designers. For example, having smaller and lighter boards placed in drones means they will weigh less and use less power to fly. Cutting the weight out of items could also reduce shipping costs in some cases. Lightweight tends to be better, and this is another area where SMT can excel.

Easier Assembly

Because there are not any through-holes to worry about with these boards, it tends to make them easier to assemble. Easier assembly for the manufacturer will generally mean faster assembly, as well. This means you get your boards more quickly. Typically, it also reduces the potential for mistakes during the assembly process.

Lower Cost

Because the assembly is easier and because the boards are smaller, it often means that the cost will be lower, too. Of course, the company you choose to do the manufacturing will also be a factor in how much it costs for the boards.

Does Surface Mount Technology Have Any Disadvantages?

With all of the benefits that SMT can offer, you might be wondering if there are any disadvantages. While most will agree that the benefits will outweigh the drawbacks, it’s important to note that there may be some disadvantages. For example, because there is only a small amount of lead space, it could make repairs more difficult. Additionally, if a component has a high electrical load or if it generates a lot of heat, it can’t be mounted using SMT. This is because the solder could melt under intense heat, which would end up rendering the PCB useless.

What’s Right for Your Needs?

What option will you be using to create your boards? Surface mount technology can work well for many different types of PCBs. However, there could be times when through-hole solutions, or some hybrid of the two, will be a better option.

Using software like PCB Artist is a good way to design a PCB and see whether it will work virtually. The software is easy to use and offers more than half a million components for design work. After designing your PCB using the software, the design can be reviewed to determine whether it will work or not. This way, you have a second set of eyes looking at the work to ensure it’s ready to go.

Get a Prototype

However, even with an engineering file review, it’s important to get hands-on time with the PCB using surface mount technology before going into full production. After you’re happy with your initial design, you will want to order a prototype. Getting just a few boards is easy when you go through Advanced Circuits, as we don’t have a minimum order.

When you get the prototype, you need to put it through its paces in real-world scenarios. What types of conditions will the board face when it’s used in your device? Monitor how it works and take note of any areas that may be having problems. Putting it through a rigorous testing process will help to make it easier to find any potential problems.

It’s always better to know about problems sooner rather than later. Just assuming that the design is good and ordering 5,000 PCBs that end up overheating would be a huge problem for your company. There is also the potential that it could reduce the trust your customers have in your products. Finding and correcting the design before it is mass-produced, even if it takes a couple of prototype and revision rounds, is a better solution. It will save money and keep your customers happier in the end.

Manufacturing

Once you are pleased with your design and you’ve seen how it will work in real-world situations, you can then move to the manufacturing stage. Advanced Circuits can do more than just provide software and guidance. We’re a full manufacturing facility that makes all of the PCBs ourselves. We also have a fantastic turnaround time, getting PCBs to our customers within a matter of days.

We have a substantial amount of experience with the assembly of surface mount technology boards and can provide you with exactly what you need. Get in touch for a quote and to learn more about the services and options that are available.

Although microvias have been around for years, they are starting to become more common when multiple functions need to be controlled by a single board. The microvia routing between layers can make it easier to include all of the necessary functions.

Because all functions can be accomplished with a single board, it can help to save space in the equipment, and it could help to reduce some of the weight. While such a small weight reduction might not matter with some types of equipment, it can be quite important for equipment designed for the aerospace industry or the military.

What is a Microvia?

This is a much smaller version of a traditional via. To be considered micro, most feel that the diameter needs to be less than 150 micrometers (µm). These holes can be drilled with lasers or mechanically. Lasers, because of their precision, are becoming a preferred method of drilling these holes. Some can be as small as 15 micrometers.

Lasers also have the benefit of not leaving behind any residue or materials in the drilled holes, which could happen with a mechanical drill. There tend to be fewer defects with lasers, as well. However, a quality manufacturer that knows and understands how to properly drill the microvias mechanically will have a low instance of failures, as well.

Today, there are several different types of microvias. Regardless of the type, you will find that they all have two characteristics in common that will need to be considered. They are going to have a low aspect ratio, and there may be a risk of fracture in the neck region. This fracturing could happen due to mechanical shock, vibrations, or because of the thermal cycling.

Buried Microvias

A buried microvia will only span between two interior layers. They will not reach the outer part of the circuit board. Many designers will span a single layer using these types of microvias, which can help to make fabrication easier and help to increase the reliability of the vias.

Blind Microvias

Blind microvias will start at the surface layer of the board and then go one to two layers below the surface before terminating. Most designers will have a blind microvia that spans just a single layer. Those who need to span two layers may want to use stacked microvias instead.

Stacked Microvias

The stacked microvias are “stacks” of buried vias or a blind microvia that has been stacked atop buried microvias. This is a common way to span multiple layers in the printed circuit board while helping to improve reliability and reducing the number of fabrication steps needed. It is important to note that internal buried microvias that are in the stack should be filled with conductive paste and then plated over. This helps to provide a strong contact for the next via in the stack.

Microvias Offer Many Benefits

Many companies today are using these types of vias because they need to have more components packed into smaller spaces. As mentioned, this helps to reduce the size of the board, meaning it can fit into smaller equipment.

However, smaller boards can also often result in cost savings. The use of microvias-in-pad allows for connections to be made in the pads of various types of surface-mounted technologies. Normal vias are often too large for the surface-mounted technologies, so this helps to ensure a better fit inside of the pad without needing to worry about manufacturing problems. There are plenty of reasons to choose to use microvias. However, you also need to be sure that they can be manufactured properly.

Fabrication Should Be Entrusted to the Right Manufacturer

Microvia fabrication can be complex, and this means that not all of the manufacturers offering these services are capable of providing you with what you need. You need to make sure that you are always working with the best manufacturers in the field, such as Advanced Circuits. We have the technology, the tools, the experience, and the facilities to handle all manner of PCB fabrication needs, including microvias.

Other Reasons to Choose Advanced Circuits

Advanced Circuits has many features that help to make us a standout company for creating all of your printed circuit boards. One of the biggest benefits is the free software that we offer. This software makes it easy for designers to create the ideal boards for their needs. They can experiment with the designs. They can use various types of vias and microvias and other features. You can test it all out virtually before committing to getting a prototype or going into full production. Our experts will review the engineering file before it goes into production, as well, to ensure there are no errors that will need to be fixed.

We’re the third-largest printed circuit board manufacturer in the United States and we work hard to ensure the best possible customer service. Advanced Circuits has a reputation for being reliable and for providing high-quality fabrication of PCBs. We offer around-the-clock tech support, so users can always get in touch by phone with a live person at Advanced Circuits.

We offer instant quotes, order status tracking, and extremely fast turnaround time. Additionally, there are not any minimum PCB order requirements as you might find with other companies. This means that if you are just in need of a prototype or a handful of boards, you can get just what you need. If you need thousands of PCBs, we can do that, as well.

Create Your Board Today

If you are intrigued by the benefits that can be found with microvias and you feel that they could be what your PCBs need, it’s time to get started. Use our software to build your board, test it out, and see whether it’s the right solution for your needs.

When you are choosing a manufacturer for PCBs, you should consider not only the most important factors for you but all of the factors that go into a great company. This helps to ensure that you are choosing your manufacturer correctly.

Below, we will be looking at some of the factors that tend to be at the top of many peoples’ lists when they are looking for a PCB manufacturer.

Are Quick Turn PCBs Important for You?

Whether you are creating your prototype, or you are looking to have a large number of printed circuit boards manufactured, you want to know how long it will take. Sometimes, you do not have as much time as you might like. You need the PCBs as soon as possible. This means that you need to choose a manufacturer capable of meeting your specific needs not only in terms of quality but also turnaround time. It is important to realize that not all companies will be able to offer quick turn PCBs.

Fortunately, you will not find that problem with Advanced Circuits. We have a range of options available to meet the needs of our customers. We can offer same-day turns for those who are placing their two-layer PCB order by 8:15am MST. These boards will be shipped the same evening. Additionally, if you submit two-layer or multilayer PCB designs on Friday, we will build the boards over the weekend, so they can arrive by Monday morning.

We offer small quantity and quick turn assembly services that ensure you are getting the PCBs you need when you need them. We also have an on-time guarantee. Our company built a reputation on being able to provide quick turn PCBs, and this means that we will guarantee that your standard spec PCBs will ship on time, or they are free.

Reputation and Experience of the Company

One of the first things that you should look for when choosing a manufacturer for your PCBs is how much experience they have in the field. Are they a new entrant into PCBs or do they have several decades in the field? While there might be some new companies offering quality products, they do not have the reputation of older companies. This also often means they will not have the same capabilities. They will not be able to get the materials they need at good prices. Those companies will not have dedicated manufacturing facilities, and it is unlikely that they will have a reliable process for quick turn PCBs. A good reputation and experience go a long way in this field, so do not overlook how important it can be.

The Standard and Custom Options

When it comes to the standard and custom PCB options that a company offers, you need to understand what they mean by those options. Some companies, for example, will not have true custom printed circuit boards, but will only offer standard options. Take the time to learn how many layers are available, whether they have a minimum number you will need to order, board thicknesses, copper weight, materials, and more. You have to be sure the company can provide you with the boards you need.

Customer Service

How the customers are treated is also important and something you will not want to overlook. Find a company that can guarantee their quality and their quick turn PCB time. Make sure that you have plenty of ways to contact the company if needed, and that the manufacturer offers free checks of your work before going into production. This helps to reduce the possibility of creating boards that are not going to work.

Overall Capabilities

What are the overall capabilities of the manufacturer? Will they be capable of providing you with just a prototype if needed? Will they be capable of offering short runs, as well as producing the PCBs you need on a massive scale? You have to think about what your needs are right now, and what they could be in the future when you are choosing a PCB manufacturing company. Take the time to learn more about the company’s certifications, such as whether they can offer military-grade PCBs. How many facilities do they operate?

Additionally, you will want to be certain that the PCBs are being made in facilities owned and operated by the company. Some manufacturers shunt their production off to other parties, which means you cannot always rely on the quality or the speed. Learn as much as possible about the company you are considering and then make up your mind whether you want to do business with them or not.

These are some of the most important things you will want to consider when you are choosing your PCB manufacturer. Always make sure that the company you choose can meet, and hopefully exceed, your needs.

Get in Touch with Advanced Circuits

If you are looking for a company that excels in all aspects of PCB manufacturing and customer service, Advanced Circuits is ready to provide you with what you need. We have decades of experience in the field and we have a range of quality services and features that help to make us a top choice in the field. We are the third-largest PCB manufacturing company in the United States, and we want to ensure our customers are always happy with the orders they place. Our experience, our size, and our dedication help to ensure that you can count on our quick turn PCBs.

While there are DIY PCB tinkerers and blogs about how to create your PCB, this process is messy, costly, and potentially hazardous. It’s much more reliable and simpler to go the professional route and to collaborate with a PCB manufacturer that can bring your design to life. With so many PCB manufacturers on the market, it can be challenging to pick the one best for your needs. Some PCB manufacturers work well for individual inventors and small businesses, while others are better suited for electrical engineers at large firms.

Whatever your reason for creating a PCB, these are the considerations you should keep in mind before selecting a PCB manufacturer. Making the best choice can save you time, money, and make sure that you don’t end up with a faulty product.

Scale Matters

The first question you’ll want to think through is the quantity of PCBs you anticipate ordering. If you’re a PCB hobbyist that enjoys building novelty electronics, you’ll want to look for PCB manufacturers that match you. Your best bet will be a PCB manufacturer with simple solutions, easy-to-use PCB design software, and tutorial videos. These tools will keep you from becoming overwhelmed and will help you build your knowledge base on PCB design. You’ll also want to see if the PCB manufacturer has minimum order policies. As an at-home PCB designer, you’ll probably only order one or two PCBs at a time, so you don’t want to use a company that will require a minimum purchase order.

On the other hand, if you run a business that needs to fulfill large orders with a PCB design, you’ll want to work with a company that can turn out big orders – and fast. Check with the company to see what their bulk pricing is like and ensure that they’re able to keep up with your demand.

Spend Wisely

As you design your PCB, it’s essential to keep in mind your budget. More extensive operations will want to have a Bill of Materials that outlines how many and what type of components are necessary for a project. This will give both you and the manufacturer an idea of the financial resources needed for completion.

You will also rack up a higher cost if you need a multilayer PCB. Sometimes, multilayer PCBs are necessary or advantageous for your purpose. For instance, a multilayer PCB will provide more surface area, which means you can add more components. More complex circuit boards will need multiple layers to accommodate additional components as you don’t want to overcrowd the PCB. Overcrowding can lead to overheating and potentially cause a short circuit.

Knowing the materials required and how many layers you’ll need for your PCB design will help you to run price comparisons between PCB manufacturers. Some PCB manufacturers, like Advanced Circuits, offer exclusive deals on their two- and four-layer PCBs, making high-powered technology possible at a cost-effective price.

Time Is Of the Essence

If you’re on a tight timeline for a project or just antsy to get your hands on a design, you’ll want to know how quickly a PCB manufacturer can deliver the goods. In general, more complex PCB designs will take longer to manufacture and deliver than stripped-down prototypes. Wait times can vary from company to company, with most landing around 3 to 14 days. Advanced Circuits, the 3rd largest PCB manufacturer in the U.S., provides a same-day turnaround option for certain orders so that you receive your PCB the next day.

Skip the Middleman

As you look around for PCB manufacturers, take note of whether they’re actually producers or, instead, brokers. Since the market is so vast, many PCB brokers have cropped up to help facilitate relationships between large firms and manufacturers. PCB brokers have a place in the world and are the most helpful for large companies that constantly need to revisit their vendors for competitive bids. It can also be useful if your company doesn’t know much about the PCB industry as they can help guide you through the process and track progress.

However, for individuals or labs that know their way around PCBs, it’s most cost-effective to work directly with a manufacturer. Working with a PCB manufacturer is the best way to have an open line of communication and establish a relationship. Rather than playing a game of telephone, you’ll be able to call up the PCB manufacturer’s tech support or check your PCB’s production timeline.

Reputation Is Everything

When you’ve spent so much time and effort on a PCB design, the last thing you want is shoddy production. There’s nothing worse than finally getting your PCB only to realize the holes weren’t drilled properly, or your PCB has the wrong dimensions. This is why you want to confirm how reputable a PCB manufacturer is before sending off your pet project. A good indicator of quality is if the manufacturer works with other large companies and organizations. For instance, Advanced Circuits is approved to manufacture Department of Defense contracts for the U.S. government. This demonstrates the level of quality and service that you can expect when trusting your PCB design with Advanced Circuits.

Don’t Settle For Less

While budget and time constraints are real, you don’t want to skimp out by not choosing a high-quality PCB manufacturer. Determine your purpose and keep in mind these considerations so that you can select the absolute best PCB manufacturer given your resources and needs. Splurging a bit more on manufacturing or taking the time to do research will save you the headache of a faulty PCB that will send you right back to the drawing board. Advanced Circuits is one of the premier, American-based PCB manufacturers that is ready to help you bring your design to life today.

To distribute electricity, PCBs are made with a series of copper wires (called traces) that connect components and allow electrons to flow. Understanding PCB fabrication is important, whether you’re teaching students the basics of electronic device operation or you’re designing the next hit Internet of Things device. In this guide, we’ll explore some of what you need to know about PCB fabrication.

Types of PCBs

Today, there are three types of PCBs manufactured. The PCB fabrication process is similar for each, although the more complex the board, the more complicated the fabrication process will be. The three types you’ll find today include the following:

• Single – Single-sided PCBs are the simplest of the lot and are made with an FR4 base and a rigid laminate made from woven glass epoxy. One side of the laminate is covered with copper, while the other side is left uncovered. The copper layer can be of varying thickness to suit the usage needs and design of the board.

• Double – Double-sided PCBs use the same epoxy as single-sided PCBs. The primary difference here is that both sides have copper added so that traces can be etched. Each side has the potential to either act as a separate circuit board, or to integrate with the other, creating a more compact form factor for what would be a larger board if it were only single-sided.

• Multi-Layer – Some PCBs have multiple layers. They begin with the same substrate material, but use copper foil instead of a copper coating. Foil and base material are interleaved to create a sandwich effect that allows multiple layers of functionality.

Of course, the PCB fabrication process is more complex than this. There are four primary parts to a PCB. These are the substrate, or base material, the copper layer (or foil), the solder mask, which protects the copper from damage during the soldering process, and silk-screening, which denotes part numbers, symbols, and other important information. Getting these four components into place is the purpose of PCB fabrication, and there are multiple steps involved.

Design

The first step is to design the PCB. Usually, you’ll use design software, such as PCB Artist, which is a free, full-feature tool that delivers powerful capabilities and ease of use. During this process, you lay out the board, indicate where components go, route traces, add capacitors, and more. However, this is all theoretical. No actual PCB fabrication occurs during this stage – it’s all about planning, prep, and basic testing for functionality.

The Design and Fabrication Process

With the design work out of the way, you now need to choose the bare PCB boards and create the traces. This process will remove unwanted/unneeded copper, leaving you with the characteristic thin lines to carry current from component to component. In most cases, a chemical etching process is used – ferric chloride is the most common etching agent, although there are other agents, and even other etching processes that may be used.

On top of the base material, copper is laid, either as a full layer, or as a foil. Over that, a film is placed. This film has a photograph/image of the completed circuit. The film is exposed to light to detail the traces and component mounting locations, creating what is called a photo-resist. This is then placed in a developer solution that removes any unneeded material.

The next step in the PCB fabrication process is to use ferric chloride to etch the area without copper. If the ferric chloride solution is too strong, or if the PCB is left in the solution for too long, damage may occur, so timing and proper solution mixing are both critical considerations.

Note that this is just one option when it comes to PCB fabrication. There are other methods that do not rely on ferric chloride at all. For instance, milling machines are able to remove copper from the areas where it is not needed without damaging the underlying board. Another option is to use inks that resist the etching solution rather than a film.

Drilling Holes/Vias

Numerous holes, or vias, must be drilled through the PCB during the fabrication process. These are used for a couple of different things. One is obvious – mounting components by their pins. However, another is to ensure that the individual layers of the board can be lined up. This is particularly important with multilayer PCBs.

Soldering and Silk-Screening

The final two steps of the PCB fabrication process are soldering and silk-screening. A soldering mask is put in place over the PCB to protect the copper from damage and to ensure that soldering is done accurately. Then, the board is flipped over and names, numbers, symbols, part identification information, and other text elements are silk-screened onto the board.

Decades of PCB Manufacturing Experience

In the end, PCB fabrication is a complex process. Accuracy and proper planning are essential from the very beginning. Whether you’re designing your first PCB ever or you’re hard at work on yet another prototype, it pays to have the right PCB design software, as well as the right manufacturing partner.

At Advanced Circuits, we have decades of experience working with clients ranging from individuals to international corporations. We can help with prototyping, design, testing and offer full PCB fabrication services with minimal lead time and highly flexible minimum order requirements. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

Advanced Circuits has the capabilities, the technology, and the expertise to provide you with just what you need.

A Fast Turnaround Time

Advanced Circuits has more than a quarter of a century in the field of circuit boards. The company can provide unbelievably fast turnarounds for high-quality, premium circuit boards as well as prototype boards. When you choose to use the company, you will find a host of benefits that help to make it a solid choice all around.

One of the best features, which is not offered by many of the other manufacturers, is a huge production area. This means that all of the work done on the PCB from manufacturing to assembly can begin and end right at the facility, rather than sending the PCBs elsewhere for completion. The company is one of the few options that are capable of manufacturing and assembling circuit boards and shipping them out the same day or the next day.

However, it is not just a fast turnaround time for the circuit boards that help to make the company a good solution.

Plenty of Support

You will also find help through each step of the process including access to PCB Artist, our free PCB design software. This means that even at the design stage of the process, there are tools that can help you to get the design from idea to production very quickly. The software has a components library with more than half a million parts and it provides more features than even many of the expensive pieces of design software that are on the market today.

Those who might already be using their own program to design the circuit board will still be able to use FreeDFM, which tests the manufacturing quality of the design, for a Gerber file check. This helps to highlight any issues that might be in the design and it can even fix some of the issues automatically. Users will be able to generate a report that will highlight any of the issues that might be present. This allows you to make those changes quickly and easily so you can get your design into manufacturing.

The support goes well beyond just the software and the file checker, of course. There are team members who can provide you with a quote for the circuit board based on the design specs. Once you are sure the board is working properly, there are members of the team that can help with the final production phases of the board all the way through the assembly phase. To make the service even better than is a full CAM review that will take place before the manufacturing starts. This helps to ensure that the design is what is needed and that there aren’t any mistakes. In addition, there are visual inspections of the circuit boards that have been produced.

Tech support is also available. Anyone who has created a design for a circuit board knows that it can be beneficial to have an extra set of eyes on it to make sure it is working properly. There might even be a few questions that you will want to have answered before you finish up the design. Thankfully, the tech support that is available will ensure that you have support around the clock to help troubleshoot any issues. In fact, it is even possible to get in touch with a CAM engineer 24-hours a day.

Even the pricing is nice and clear. There aren’t any setup fees or stenciling fees, and you will find that there are no hidden costs. This ensures those who use the service will know what they are paying. It doesn’t matter if you have a large order that needs to be completed or if you have a small order of just one prototype. Advanced Circuits has you covered. When you work with us, you are essentially choosing a one-stop-shop company that can take care of all of your circuit board needs.

It’s Done In-House

In today’s world, so many aspects of so many companies are outsourced. However, with Advanced Circuits, the work is done at the premises since it is not a broker. There is no outsourcing for different elements of the production. By keeping everything at the company from the testing through to the production, the amount of time it takes to go from start to completed product that’s been shipped is reduced. In addition, costs can be reduced since everything is streamlined and done at the premises.

Who Should Consider It?

Those who are already in the stage to move on with manufacturing and are sure they have a great, workable design will find that Advanced Circuits is a stellar option. Even those who are still in the beginning stages and are looking for quality software to help them design the circuit board will find that it’s a great choice. From start to finish, no matter the size of the project, this is a company that can deliver results.

Given all of the benefits that are available, it only makes sense to choose Advanced Circuits. It’s affordable and customers can get instant quotes. You can even track your orders, which will arrive a lot faster than many people anticipate when it comes to manufacturing PCBs. If you want the best quality available for your circuit boards, Advanced Circuit is a trusted choice!

Domestic producers, and especially those that do not subcontract or outsource, can guarantee a hands-on opportunity. In the past, those in need of PCBs might visit the production facility, bring along designs, and work with engineers to problem solve or troubleshoot designs long before production is initiated. Today, that is out of the question, and so producers make a leap of faith where their choice in a USA PCB manufacturer is concerned.

The good news is that such a leap (and risk) is no longer required. Advanced Circuits rates as one of the top at the game, and is a USA PCB manufacturer that provides clients with an entirely “hands-on” experience. We do this by offering an array of premium services and resources. As a simple example, our clients can rest assured thanks to the following features of our service offerings:

• 24-hour support – Customer service around the clock is essential, but we also feature a live tech support team that features an actual CAM engineer at any hour of the day or night.
• We are never a broker – We never sub out work but instead rely on our world-class, 62k square foot production facility that guarantees the speed and quality most customers want but don’t always receive.
• No tooling charges – When an order features Standard Specifications, we are glad to waive tooling charges and always cancel out such fees on reorders of Standard Spec as Custom Spec items.
• No minimum orders – There are no minimum lot requirements, meaning that clients are not forced to invest in huge orders with more PCBs than they might need or use.
• Best shipping record – Advanced Circuits has the BEST ON-TIME SHIPPING RECORD in the industry, and is now shipping 50% of orders early! In fact, we say we “put our money where our mouth is . . . and we ship Standard Spec orders on time or it’s FREE!”

Because we produce everything onsite, there is no need to worry that a “no-touch” process is required. We facilitate the design, production and assembly process and ensure fast turnaround times, too.

Work with a USA PCB manufacturer for Worry-Free Production

As one of the most recognized names in the PCB, prototype assembly, and SMT technologies industry, we will provide both fabrication and assembly. Yet, it is our printed circuit board design features that eliminate the risks of a no-touch approach.

How? The resources we make available as a USA PCB manufacturer include:

PCB Artist – Whether a first-time designer or an experienced team, most clients love the free access we provide to this innovative PCB design software. As a client, you enjoy unrestricted use, with capabilities of up to 28 layers and more than 500k parts, a controlled auto-router function, multi-page schematics, and more. Those unfamiliar with it find it amazingly easy to use, and it is frequently described as the very best printed circuit board design tool. It reduces the risk of error and enables us (as a preferred USA PCB manufacturer) to streamline production.

FreeDFM  – If a client uses their own Gerber file software (or other design tools), this free resource provides a comprehensive and fast design assessment. It works easily by uploading a copy of the design files, ensures they feature all essential data, makes corrections when possible, and generates a report of any potential glitches. If the order for production is then run through this program to our offices, the client receives an email with a special discount code for the order.

Additionally, every single order receives a free engineering file review before the fabrication process is initiated. If a client decides to use Gerber files without any other resources, our team of engineers still does a full check of the plans ahead of any production runs. This guarantees that customers never experience the kind of financial or production pains they might have previously experienced when working with or through outsourcing and/or brokers. Rather than dealing with useless products full of potentially correctable design flaws that were left unchecked in the design and fabrication processes, we are a USA PCB manufacturer guaranteed to deliver the desired outcomes.

Don’t Want a Learning Curve?

It is entirely natural that many producers will want the benefits of a free design tool and free design checks, but don’t want to deal with the learning curve associated with new software or new processes. The good news is that this is not required in order to enjoy the benefits of such a top-tier USA PCB manufacturer.

As noted, you can always use existing Gerber files or use PCB Artist and enjoy its printable tutorials and video options that walk even a beginner through the complex process of PCB design and manufacturing. Whether the design has SMT technologies, HDI requirements or is a simple and straightforward process, the software makes it easy and fast to handle.

More Reasons that Advanced Circuits is an Optimal USA PCB Manufacturer

There are so many reasons to take advantage of the benefits offered by Advanced Circuits. Whether a client requires just a few prototypes or a large number of PCBs, Advanced Circuits is the kind of comprehensive, domestic USA PCB manufacturer that eliminates the hassles of outsourced or brokered production. Orders arrive on time or are free, and every single board receives expert evaluations and will be produced to exact specifications.

This is also why the same-day turnaround times that a firm like Advanced Circuits offers seem too good to be true, even though they are not.

One-Stop Printed Circuit Boards Shop

With more than 25 years in the circuit boards industry, we are one of the largest and few one-stop solutions for those in need of premium circuit boards and prototypes. With tens of thousands of square feet of production space, we offer clients an in-house PCB assembly system from start to finish.

Our capabilities include:

• One day PCB – We are one of the few PCB makers that can manufacture and assemble circuit boards and ship them out in as little as a single day
• Full support – Unlike many other manufacturers, our team works with you every step of the way. We begin with a quote based on initial design spec uploads and walk all clients through to the final production and assembly phases.
• Quality – While many in the PCB industry approve of Advanced Circuits’ array of design resources, they also appreciate the inspection process that begins with a full CAM review before any manufacturing begins, as well as visual inspections of the final circuit boards produced.
• Clear pricing – Also unlike many other producers, we do not ask for stenciling fees, setup fees, and other hidden, but ultimately unnecessary charges.

Keep in mind that we are also a chosen maker of circuit boards because of our one-stop system. This ensures a totally seamless process that occurs under a single roof and remains consistently in the hands of our designers and engineers. Without any outside vendors and with the option for production and assembly in a single space, there will be fewer risks of delays, problems, and errors.

Beyond In-house Production and Assembly of Circuit Boards

While the convenience and speed that comes with in-house production and assembly of printed circuit boards cannot be overlooked; the capabilities that Advanced Circuits makes available ensure a much more substantial list of benefits can be enjoyed.

For one thing, we impose no minimum orders, making us an ideal solution for small to midsized firms in addition to larger manufacturers. We also make design, even for the novice teams, remarkably foolproof. We do this through:

• CAM engineer evaluations – All products are evaluated by one of the in-house engineers long before production begins in order to spare clients any costly mistakes.
• Free design software – The cost of PCB design software is part of doing business, but the Advanced Circuits proprietary and exclusive PCB Artist software is available in an unrestricted format and entirely for free. It is a free download to a client’s desktop (Windows only at this time) and is capable of up to 28 layers in a single design. The program has over 500k parts from which to choose, integrates a controlled auto-router function to speed up design processes, and offers multi-page schematics for more complex projects. With a complete library of tutorials to train those using the program, there is no reason not to take advantage of it (and the discounts given to clients who opt for the use of our free software).
• Free evaluation software – For those already using a CAM program of their own, the option for FreeDFM allows the manufacturing quality of a design to be tested. The files are exported in a Gerber format and loaded to the online software. This will review the entire file, correct any glitches and generate a report indicating changes or potential problems.
• Customers get tech support – And while it is great to have customer support around the clock, few PCB firms will offer their clients an opportunity to troubleshoot with the help of a CAM engineer. However, Advanced Circuits does have experts of this kind available 24 hours a day.
• Ordering through the software – When a client runs the proprietary software available through the Advanced Circuits’ website, they also have the choice of ordering through it at the same time. They still get that CAM engineer review and the crucial checks for errors, but they can use the software to make the order, too. And when they do, they receive a discount code as an incentive.

We live in a world of outsourcing everything. It is no longer just customer service and other phone service options that are sent overseas. This can make for a lot of difficulties in the design process. Even when there are online solutions that make uploading your proprietary files easier than ever; the danger for grave mistakes presents too many risks involving time, money and reputation. That’s why so many companies choose Advanced Circuits for their PCB manufacturing and assembly.

When you work with Advanced Circuits, you get the kinds of hands-on interaction and attention that the modern world is so short on. Rather than the distinctly “no-touch” approach used by a lot of fabricators (who want to receive your pre-tested files and get to work), we are a distinctly hands-on service. We run the printed circuit boards through rigorous examinations before any part of production begins. Since we are not a broker but are instead that one-stop solution making everything in-house, it is assured that we do all we can to prevent problems.

We have quick turns services specialists with some of the fastest turnaround times and shipping. In fact, we have the BEST ON-TIME SHIPPING RECORD in the industry, and are now shipping 50% of orders early! In fact, we ship Standard Spec orders on time or they’re FREE!

When you want a flawless design process full of support and even corrections and adjustments that guarantee success, depend on the Advanced Circuits team to produce and deliver your order.

That canvas, layers of copper and substrate, represents an ever-growing multibillion-dollar business. Having existed for the better part of a century, printed circuit boards are used in virtually all facets of electronics. As technology advances, the circuit board design continues to evolve.

Printed Circuit Board Design Advancements

From hobbyists to the aerospace industry, the applications of the printed circuit board have grown over the years. As these expand, so does the need for advancements in material and capabilities. This trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

Imagine the world before the advent of the Information Age.

Before smartphones and the internet craze, PCBs were already widely used – from toys to fighter jets. There was a time when pocket calculators were considered high-tech. As society grew more dependent on technology, newer innovations continued to be introduced.

Moving forward into the new century, electronics have become more powerful, compact and mobile. People have grown accustomed to being connected. The advances that provided greater connectivity also required more to be packed into each PCB.

Modern Applications in the Automotive Industry

Technology has become firmly integrated into all facets of our lives – including our automobiles.

The demands for safety, convenience, and connectivity require circuit board design to keep pace – if not stay a step ahead. Advancements in the automotive industry meant PCB applications had to accommodate these complex systems.

All new cars require computers to operate. PCBs are at the heart of these system designs and can range in type – including single-sided, double-sided, multilayer, rigid, flexible, and so on. They cover a broad range of applications that are spread throughout a vehicle’s operating systems.

Trucking & Delivery Industry

The initial investment is only the beginning, as there are expenses involved in keeping any vehicle roadworthy. This is particularly true of large trucks that spend their days traversing the nation’s highways.

It’s been stated that as much as 43% of the operating cost of a commercial truck is putting a human in the driver’s seat. With costs continuing to rise, it’s no wonder that the industry has shown great interest in self-driving technology.

Personal Automobiles

While the trucking industry might be looking at autonomous vehicles as a means to save on costs, the consumer market seems focused on other goals. Today, personal automobiles offer incredible technological capabilities made possible by printed circuit board systems.

Convenience is certainly a factor. Still, it’s the potential benefits of safety that make the promise of self-driving cars so attractive. Many auto manufacturers are investing heavily in the future of this technology. It’s not a matter of if but when we’ll see cars driving themselves.

For now, personal automobiles offer precursors to self-driving systems, that take full advantage of PCB technology.

Powertrain Components

An automobile’s engine, transmission, and other components have various electronic control modules. As powertrain designs require more functionality, the number of modules must also increase. Without this medley of synchronized computers, your car wouldn’t get very far down the road.

Comfort and Technology Features

It’s easy to surmise that automotive features like smart keys and navigational systems require computers. Less obvious ones – including numerous sensors and the automatic braking system – are also peppered throughout modern automobiles.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

ADAS systems are electronic safety measures that provide state-of-the-art protections. These system safeguards – video cameras, radar receivers, and other sensors – enhance the driver’s ability to avoid potential accidents.

Dawn of the Autonomous Vehicle Revolution

Imagine a future where a self-driving car stops to pick up passengers. The autonomous drone navigates the roadways along a preset destination – while managing to avoid plowing into anything along the way.

Sound like something in a science fiction movie?

Fiction tends to become reality eventually. Autonomous vehicles already exist. In fact, many segments of the industry are actively testing this technology. Their wide-spread and commercial use are just around the corner.

Printed Circuit Boards in the Self-Driving World

Regardless of the industry, the move to autonomous vehicles requires advancements to make it happen. Printed circuit boards are more than an essential part of the equation – they’re a requirement.

Though technology has helped alleviate human errors that generally cause accidents, people are still skeptical about allowing machines to pilot themselves. A combination of reliable software and hardware is required to ensure as failsafe of a system as possible.

PCB Technology Pushes the Envelope of Emerging Innovations

The automobile had already grown into a complex collection of systems and software – even with humans at the controls. With the ambition of having vehicles take over the driving as well, it’s paramount that the brains of these decision-making vehicles are of the highest quality.

PCB manufacturing and assembly companies, such as Advanced Circuits, are positioned to be key contributors.

Advanced Circuits Leads the Way

In an impatient world awaiting the self-driving car, it makes sense to let a leader in PCB technology take the wheel.

Since 1989, Advanced Circuits has been a leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly. As one of the three largest manufacturers of circuit boards in the US, Advanced Circuits is renowned for quality, reliability and customer service.

One of the few PCB suppliers for DOD contracts, Advanced Circuits manufactures 100% of their boards in the US. Along with the best on-time PCB shipping record, there’s also 24-hour tech support (where you’ll get a live person). Contact us today to discover our advanced PCB manufacturing capabilities.

Below is a list of the common types of printed circuit boards.  For a complete list of Advanced Circuits’ PCB manufacturing capabilities, click here.

Single Layer PCB

Single layer printed circuit boards are among some of the simplest to design and manufacture.  These boards have a single layer of conductive material (such as copper) on only one side of a non-conductive substrate.

Double Layer PCB

Double layer PCBs have one conductive layer on top of a non-conductive substrate and another conductive layer on the reverse side (top and bottom layers).  The two conductive sides can be connected using plated holes in the substrate that connect to pads on both sides of the circuit board; these are called vias.

Multi-Layer PCB

This term refers to a circuit board that has three or more conductive layers.  The conductive layers are at the top and bottom, as well as at least one conductive layer sandwiched between non-conductive substrate.  Advanced Circuits has the capability to fabricate up to 40 layer boards, but the most commonly used have lower layer counts such as 4, 6, or 8 layer boards.

High Density Interconnect (HDI) PCB

HDI PCBs take advantage of precision based manufacturing technology to pack as much functionality into a small space.  This is done by using many conductive layers, laser drilled microvias, fine lines and tolerances, and advanced laminate materials.  HDI PCBs can accommodate the complex routing of high pin count chips and other high-tech miniaturized components.

High Frequency PCB

The main difference in manufacturing high frequency printed circuit boards pertains to the design itself.  These PCB are designed to facilitate signals over 1 gigahertz.  Depending on the application, high frequency printed circuit boards may require the use of advanced laminate materials and controlled impedance.

Advanced Circuits’ PCB manufacturing capabilities range from the simplest of designs to the most complex builds with rigorous design requirements.  Our capabilities include laser-drilled microvias, cavity boards, heavy copper up to 20 oz., via-in-pad, microwave & RF boards, up to 40 layers and others.  We are your one-stop solution to all of your printed circuit board manufacturing.  For more information about our PCB capabilities and services, contact your Sales Representative or call 1-800-979-4722.