Prototype Challenges

The trouble is that a PCB prototype can be a costly endeavor, particularly when production issues are added to the equation. As an example, many manufacturers employ the following practices, which make PCB prototypes difficult to build.

• Lengthy production times – A cheap, fast production process is highly desirable where PCB prototypes are concerned. After all, it is key to product testing and design tweaks. Yet very few manufacturers offer a fast turnaround – such as one to five days – and it forces firms to rethink their options and skip a PCB prototype or product redesign.
• Order minimums – Too many PCB makers demand a minimum order quantity, which means the production of a number of the same PCB prototypes. This is a substantial waste of money and requires the company to find a use for – or flatly discard – a batch of PCB prototypes.
• Expensive design system – Hiring engineers and designers, investing in complicated and costly software, using printed films or evaluating digital files…these all cost a great deal but are typical steps in a standard PCB prototype design process.

The entire production process of any prototype PCB or standard PCB (from generating blueprints to making the substrate, printing the layers, UV hardening, copper removal, laminations, inspections, pressing, drilling, plating, imaging, etching, soldering, and silk screening stages and testing) will take a lot of time and generate a lot of expense. And yet, producers offering something like a one-day turnaround time are greeted with skepticism.

Considering the challenges of PCB prototype processes, that skepticism is wise, but there are producers capable of such feats. The team at Advanced Circuits, for instance, has a history of making the production of a PCB prototype, as well as full orders of PCBs, affordable, fast, and fail-proof.

How do they do this? They use unique tools and production methods that allow them to consistently rank at the top of the industry.

The Advanced Circuits PCB Prototype Production Process

The struggles of designing and producing a PCB prototype are even more complex than those points outlined earlier. For example, a PCB prototype runs the same risk of trouble if it runs beyond a single layer. There may be problems in the design that negate the functionality between layers, and this could render the PCB or PCB prototype unusable.

What can be done to facilitate an easier process? Advanced Circuits has created a PCB prototype process that overcomes most of the common concerns and hurdles. It includes:

• No minimums – With the ability to order a single, affordable PCB, the idea of quick prototype design is a reality. One-day turnarounds are an option, and this means that a company’s production or design processes are not significantly interrupted.
• Free software – One major concern for many companies is their need to invest in high-priced, high-tech design software. Advanced Circuits makes advanced options available entirely free of charge using their industry-recognized PCB Artist software. This software is available in an unrestricted format and comes with tutorials to speed up the learning curve. It also includes a discount when designs are run through the program – even a single PCB prototype order. Simply download the free software and use the program to create a prototype of up to 28 layers, using any of the half-million parts and components in the software’s built-in library.
• FreeDFM evaluation software – In addition to the advanced design software, there is a simple-to-use option that allows a client to upload Gerber files and have them analyzed and corrected. The software also generates a report indicating potential roadblocks.
• CAM engineer evaluations – All products are evaluated by one of the in-house engineers long before production begins, helping to eliminate costly mistakes.
• Software-based ordering – Running the design through the free software allows for immediate ordering. A PCB prototype can be generated within the software, go through the FreeDFM and CAM engineer reviews, and receive a discount just as easily as a full batch of PCBs can.
• Full tech support – Advanced Circuits offers 24-hour tech support that features direct access to a CAM engineer to help troubleshoot PCB prototype or standard design dilemmas.

After all these features are used, a PCB prototype is typically prepared for error-free production. Advanced Circuits then makes the product at the most rapid pace imaginable. As an industry leader with decades of experience making PCB prototypes (as well as huge production batches of PCBs), they are suited to companies of any size.

Advanced Circuits Offers Other Benefits for PCB Prototyping

Their immense facility provides production and assembly through a streamlined and cost-efficient process. In addition to their PCB prototype services, they also offer the following:

• Full support – Unlike many other manufacturers, their team works with you every step of the way. They begin with a quote based on initial design spec uploads and walk all clients through to the final production and assembly phases.
• Clear pricing – Also, unlike many other producers, they do not ask for stenciling fees, setup fees, and other sneaky, but ultimately unnecessary, charges.
• Quality – While many in the PCB industry approve of Advanced Circuits’ array of design resources, they also appreciate the inspection process beginning with a full CAM review before any manufacturing begins, as well as visual inspections of the final circuit boards produced.
• One-stop production – Everything takes place in the same place, from design tools, quality checks, design and production services, assembly, and anything else that’s needed to turn out a quality PCB prototype the first time.

A PCB prototype is just as important – if not more so – as the final PCB produced for a product line. Either way, the most affordable and hassle-free approach should be used, and a one-stop option like Advanced Circuits can be an invaluable partner in any company’s design and production process.

There are modern software solutions that can help to do that level of checking and bring the creation of useless printed circuit boards to an end. They guarantee your work is heading into production without errors, and they are often called Gerber file viewers.

Should You Run Printed Circuit Board Designs Through a Gerber File Viewer?

Standard PCB design uses Gerber files. Most involved in the industry know all about a Gerber file and how to read one. It enables standardization in design and eliminates glitches caused by any attempts at merging different kinds of files.

Are PCBs so complex? Printed circuit boards are found in and also contain electronic components. They may feature resistors and capacitors and run complex or simple operations. Circuits are mounted to the board, and the various elements within a board communicate through conducting materials like copper lines.

Gerber files detail these connections and components and will show the many layers that printed circuit boards may require to do their job. Gerber files, however, may also be used by PCB printing devices to make the boards. They may guide the production of a PCB directly from the design, depending upon the information within the files.

To date, there have been three generations of Gerber files:

• Standard Gerber, RS-274-D was the first generation
• Extended Gerber, RS0274X was the second generation
• Gerber X2 is the latest generation and also often includes metadata

A single Gerber file corresponds or details a single layer on printed circuit boards, one file for each layer, including inner layers, as well as top or bottom signal layers. Historically, manufacturers would work directly with designers and go over the Gerber files to ensure no issues. Today, things have changed, and a manufacturer may whip up a batch of printed circuit boards without evaluating or scrutinizing the Gerber files.

As many recognize, this can lead to a lot of trouble. Flawed layering, failed communications, and other issues may leave an entire batch of PCBs useless to the buyer. Fortunately, the use of a Gerber file viewer may save the day.

Using the Gerber File Viewer

Gerber file viewers were designed and created to address the issue of flawed PCB design. Today, there are many types of Gerber file viewers on the market that allow PCB designers to see how the various layers will operate as a physical PCB.

While there are many programs, Advanced Circuits makes an entirely free tool of this kind available to its customers. It requires a quick upload of Gerber files into the system and is free whether or not the user is a registered customer of the company.

Known as FreeDFM, it does a comprehensive evaluation of the design. It looks at all of the inner layers and evaluates such issues as spacing, trace width, annular ring, inner clearance, and thermal reduction. It also analyzes the outer layers’ similar areas, checking spacing, trace width, and annular ring. It looks at physical production issues like drilling and evaluates solder mask for undersized or missing clearances. It checks the silkscreen for line width.

After this comprehensive review, it generates an easy-to-understand report in a PDF format. It provides its full findings of the Gerber file review, and while it may make some basic repairs, it also identifies issues that a designer must address. For example, one of the more common design flaws is missing or incomplete data. FreeDFM will ensure that files have the required data.

One of the most significant benefits of the Gerber file viewer is its ability to correct common design issues automatically. It fixes small issues on-the-fly, cutting down on designer’s workloads and delays. The information taken from the evaluation also helps to generate an accurate quote for PCB production.

Additional Benefits

The free Gerber file viewer is an ideal tool for error-free production. Yet Advanced Circuits also offers an array of other services and resources, including:

• Fast service – Speedy turnaround time and fast shipping ensures that customers get their PCBs quickly.
• Custom orders – Custom orders are welcome for PCB prototypes or full batches.
• No tooling charges – When an order features Standard Specifications, tooling charges are waived and similar fees are canceled 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 used.
• Not a broker – The company never subs out their work, but instead, relies on their top-of-the-line, 62,000-square-foot facility that guarantees the kind of quality and speed most customers want but don’t always get.
• 24-hour support – Customer service around-the-clock is great, but they also feature a live tech support team that allows design teams to speak directly with a CAM engineer at any hour of the day or night.
• Best shipping record – Advance Circuits has the best on-time shipping record in the industry, and they are now shipping 50% of orders early! In fact, they say they “put our money where our mouth is . . . and we ship Standard Spec orders on time, or they’re FREE!”

Whether it is a new company seeking a maker of printed circuit boards or a long-standing firm eager to up the quality and experience with a PCB manufacturer, Advanced Circuits has the resources needed. With free evaluations through the Gerber file viewer, designs will be better than ever, and PCBs can be as innovative or as simple as needed and always reliable.

Writing them without errors, though, is easier than it may seem. Gerber files are digital blueprints for your PCB. They detail each layer and shape the fabrication process that will be used to make even the most innovative designs. Many producers demand Gerber files, even if they are an assembly-only part of the process. This is to ensure clarity on all of the physical attributes of a PCB.

This means that even a single mistake will lead to all kinds of delays, financial issues, production problems, and losses. If you are using a “no-touch” manufacturer or fabricator, it also means it is a “no review” production process. They don’t analyze your Gerber files or PCB design, and it makes it easier than ever for incomplete, flawed, or inaccurate Gerber files to make their way into production, resulting in a PCB that doesn’t work.

Is the Gerber file so wrought with potential disaster as to make it a problem? No, it is simply that there are common glitches that are easily overlooked.

Common Glitches to Consider When Working with Gerber Files

Many are unaware of the most common problems with Gerber files, but it is immensely useful to know about them when entering into the PCB design and production process. These problems include:

• Empty files – Any designer may unintentionally delete or negate file content, leaving a 0-byte file that offers no workable data for the production or fabrication team.
• Flawed file naming protocols – Among the most common concerns with Gerber files is the use of a flawed file naming protocol. Leading to confusion for others involved in the process, this also complicates file checking or troubleshooting.
• Incomplete or missing data – Empty files are one thing, but it is also possible for details or information to be lacking or mismatched against the specifications delivered to a manufacturer. It is crucial for Gerber files to be where they belong, accessible, and complete.
• Conflict between layers – Some software creates multiple Gerber files with design specs at every layer. Should those layers fail to be combined synchronously, it can lead to composite layer design errors outside of individual layer design specs.
• Aperture lists – When Gerber files are in use, it is best to have a single aperture list with details the fabricator or manufacturer will need, as well as specs relating to the tools necessary for each stage. Multiple lists can mean errors, and the format of the lists should be in sync with the Gerber file format, as well.

Those experienced in Gerber file creation may think of such mistakes as avoidable or inexcusable, but they are common events. They doom most projects to huge production costs, lengthy delays, and failure. Avoiding them requires attention to detail, the use of high-definition CAD programs, implementing the best quality assurance practices from start to finish, and using a Gerber file viewer.

Because problems are so common, the best PCB manufacturers and fabricators offer free resources to prevent such issues.

Advanced Circuits Offers Support for Flawless Gerber Files

Advanced Circuits is among the top names in the PCB and prototype assembly industries. With the ability to handle PCB manufacturing (fabrication) and assembly, it provides clients with services that help improve all projects, especially the quality of their Gerber files. This is done by making a range of free resources available that support the creation of projects from first phase to final product.

Advanced Circuits offers the following options:

• The Advanced Circuits website has free PCB file check software for those with complete Gerber files ready to enter production. Known as FreeDFM, it is a program that will rapidly evaluate printed circuit board design files, correct many issues, and send a full report that identifies any other issues that could present problems along the way. Those who use this tool get a discount for simply running the files through the program. It does require an import of Gerber files (via an online upload). However, the software is free to use, and it will utilize the registered email address to send all of the analysis (in a PDF report) as well as the discount code.
• PCB Artist As anyone familiar with PCB design and manufacturing knows, most customers rarely get to tour a fabricator’s facilities or work one-on-one to address issues or avoid common errors. Once a great way to prevent problems, the global nature of PCB production makes this impossible. This is why Advanced Circuits offers another resource – the free PCB Artist program. This has a long list of features that guarantee an error-free design process and includes unrestricted design capabilities with a 28-layer limit, a controlled auto-router function, multi-page schematics, and more. This is not the same as Gerber files but includes a full library of tutorials that help all users to create flawless files.
• Free Gerber file reviews, corrections, and reporting by an engineering expert.

Further Resources to Trust

While this array of design resources proves invaluable to many, Advanced Circuits also dedicates itself to client satisfaction and success in other ways. For example, work is never subcontracted, there are never tooling fees if an order sticks to standard specs, and there is 24-hour tech support provided by a CAM engineer. They make no minimum order requirements and have the best on-time shipping record in the industry, with many orders arriving ahead of schedule. They are so sure they can meet customer needs that Standard Spec orders are FREE if they fail to arrive on time.

Gerber files can be a major hassle, but the tools and services available via Advanced Circuits support only the best results. Avoiding costly errors and long production delays are a thing of the past when your files are created without errors or problems.

It also opens up the door to the risk of losses due to flaws in the PCB design. Even when top-tier PCB design software is used by a skilled expert, there can always be mistakes that a production team can recognize. The “no-touch” approach used by most subcontractors, though, allows for glitches because files are often received and run without evaluation.

The good news is that some domestic PCB manufacturers have the ability to offer one-stop production, including access to free, premium PCB design software, along with expert evaluative services.

PCB Design Software to Ensure Optimal Results

Advanced Circuits provides customers with PCB design software, and rates as one of the most well-known companies in the PCB and prototype assembly industries. We handle PCB manufacturing (fabrication) and assembly, but it is often our PCB design software and expert support that sets us far apart from the crowd.

A one-stop shop with more than two decades in the industry, we provide customers with exclusive services that support, facilitate, and improve any project. The resources available for the PCB design process include the following.

Free PCB Layout Software – PCB Artist – Whether novice or expert designers, customers are often delighted by the entirely complimentary access they receive to this innovative PCB design software. Unrestricted, it is capable of up to 28 layers and includes more than 500k parts, a controlled auto-router function, multi-page schematics, and more. Easy to use, it is a noted printed circuit board design tool throughout the industry.

Free PCB File Check – Whether or not the free PCB Artist software is used, there is also the FreeDFM program that enables clients to run a free and fast design assessment. The software uses PCB design software files uploaded into the system and then evaluates them fully. The program ensures files feature all essential data, automatically corrects some issues, and provides an easy-to-read and use report. Clients using it also enjoy a discount when they run the designs in advance of submitting them to the team.

If a customer is using Gerber format files, the PCB design software and File Check program can still be put to use. There are free uploading tools, and it takes only the submission of a client email to obtain the full evaluative report. It takes only minutes, and a quote, discount code, and link to the PDF of the results will appear.

End Problems Using PCB Design Software

Worried that you are going to have to relearn the use of PCB design software to enjoy the free tools and resources…as well as enjoy all of those benefits? Don’t be! The PCB Artist software comes with printable tutorials and video options that take even the extreme beginner through the complex process of PCB design and manufacturing. And there are experts on-call 24 hours a day to help.

Additionally, on top of the free file review software, every single order receives a free engineering file review before the fabrication process is initiated. What is this? An actual engineer examines the file and guarantees that customers never experience the kind of financially harmful outcomes they might have received via the more common no-touch services from outsourced work. Rather than an easily correctable design flaw allowed to go through and ruin a batch, the trained eye will detect issues and correct them before a project begins.

And, while the free PCB design resources made available on our website is enough to demonstrate why we are a preferred provider, there are many additional reasons to use and order through the PCB design software, including:

• No tooling charges – When an order features Standard Specifications, we’re always glad to eliminate tooling charges and cancel out such fees on reorders of Standard Spec as Custom Spec items.
• We are NOT a broker – Advanced Circuits never subcontracts work. Instead, we rely on our top-of-the-line, 62,000-square-foot facility that guarantees the kind of quality and speed most want but don’t always receive.
• 24-hour support – Customer service around-the-clock is great, but we also feature a live tech support team that allows design teams to speak directly with a CAM engineer at any hour of the day or night and get answers about the free PCB design software or PCBs, in general.
• 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.

Partner with Advanced Circuits for Error-Free PCB Design

Don’t spend a moment worrying about learning curves and other similar struggles for our free design tools. They are easy to use and include tutorials. Instead, get ready for a far more efficient design process, simple ordering, and discounted pricing. There are so many reasons to choose Advanced Circuits, and as you have seen, we go well beyond the free PCB design software. We ensure that any designs (whether received as Gerber files or another format) are without easily correctable mistakes. This saves time and money while keeping your firm on schedule. The free evaluation resources available include engineering reviews, and we make engineers available around-the-clock to help with any issues or questions.

It is difficult to beat this approach to PCB design and production, and with guarantees that orders arrive when scheduled (or they are free), it makes good sense to get in touch with Advanced Circuits and get your project started today.

• Far more functionality in the device – Surface-mount technology reduces the total weight of almost all PCBs. And yet, producing them is less demanding where labor is concerned, because it eliminates drilling and soldering to a great degree. This means lighter, smaller PCBs with less risk of malfunction.
• Compact and functional – SMT means smaller devices that work better and cost less.
• Automation – Using surface-mount technology allows any producer to leverage the benefits of mass-produced PCBs, resulting in higher-quality, better-performing PCBs.
• Lower costs and shorter production times – By eliminating several standard production steps, it makes surface-mount technology faster and less costly.

Can all PCB makers offer surface-mount technologies? Sadly, no, and that makes it important for any device makers or designers to spend time seeking out options for integrating SMT into their designing, manufacturing, and assembly processes.

At Advanced Circuits, all clients can access the long list of benefits that come from surface-mount technologies. While that alone is a good enough reason to explore our options, we also have a long list of complimentary tools and resources that allow buyers to make the very most of the technology.

Make the Most of SMT and Advanced Circuits’ Resources

As a leading name in PCB and prototyping, Advanced Circuits is also noted for its many free tools that empower SMT to the greatest degree possible. For instance, for the DIY, one-off, or by-hand SMT designers, there are SMT Solder Paste Stencils available. While not free, they are a unique option few others make available.

For those eager to use SMT tools and resources in their PCB designs, we have advanced design tools that enable easy integration of surface-mount technologies. It all starts with Gerber files. This is the most familiar and common file type used in the PCB production process, and whether or not a Gerber file is used often impacts whether the designs are left untested when sent in for production.

In fact, the process known as no-touch production is just that – the maker takes the files and produces them without any sort of engineering review. Buyers who work with brokered or outsourced systems encounter this issue regularly and face the financial risks of flawed designs.

An optimal producer should make an engineering review mandatory prior to beginning fabrication as it will identify any potential issues that might lead to delays or wasted resources. Advanced Circuits offers free tools for surface-mount technology designs that overcome these typical hurdles.

Free Tools for SMT Design

PCB Artist – Producers get 100% free access to a fully unrestricted version of this PCB design software. Its capabilities include management of up to 28 layers, a library of more than 500,000 parts, an auto-router function, multi-page schematics, and SMT support. This means it will meet even the most advanced demands. This software is consistently recognized as an industry-best PCB design tool.

FreeDFM– In addition to nearly fail-proof design software, clients can also use this free rapid design assessment software. Amazingly intuitive and easy to use, it ensures that all essential data is available; it can also provide corrections to common design issues. It generates a full report of its findings and can manage complex surface-mount technology designs as well as standard designs with soldering and drilling. Once it completes reviewing the design, it promises an error-free product, and this is why those who use it get a discount if the design is submitted through the software. It can do a full conversion to Gerber format in only a few minutes, provide a quote, and extend the discount code.

Standard Services – Those who use Advanced Circuits to produce PCBs also have free use of the traditional client services. This means that every SMT order receives a full CAM engineer review, ensuring your design of any level of complexity receives a full and expert evaluation and any adjustments needed.

Partnering for Success

In addition to all of this complimentary expertise, further benefits of a partnership with Advanced Circuits include:

• No tooling charges – When an order features Standard Specifications, we are glad to waive tooling charges and always cancel such fees on reorders of Standard Spec and Custom Spec items.
• 24-hour support – Customer service around-the-clock features live tech support that allows design teams to speak directly with a CAM engineer at any hour of the day or night.
• Best shipping record – Advanced Circuits has the BEST ON-TIME SHIPPING RECORD in the industry. We’re 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 they’re FREE!”
• Not a broker – We never sub out our work but instead count on our top-of-the-line, 62,000-square-foot facility to guarantee the kind of quality and speed many want but don’t always receive.
• No minimum orders – There are no minimum lot requirements. Clients are not forced to invest in huge orders with more PCBs than might be needed. Prototyping is an option, even with SMT features.
• Custom and private client pages – Look through past orders, see the specs and details, look at quotes from other jobs, and even review hold notices, test certifications, and a long list of other helpful reports.
• Stability – With more than two decades of work in this industry, a healthy bottom line, and many dedicated clients, we are among the most stable of providers, guaranteed to be around for years after your projects are completed.

One More Plus

The production plant also has to be seen as a benefit because it allows 100% in-house design, production, and assembly. Not only is this efficient, but it promises the level of familiarity and attention to detail that few SMT producers provide.

Incorporating surface-mount technology into your PCB design is a practical and innovative way to get the most out of any design. It used to be a premium element and demanded a bit of risk. Advanced Circuits gives you the tools and resources you need to create high-quality PCBs every time.

Find the Problems Early

If there are errors in these files – even just a single error – it can cause problems with your production schedule. If you are using a no-touch manufacturer that doesn’t even look at what they are creating, it could cause you to have thousands of useless PCBs delivered to you. You have to know whether your PCB is ready to take to production or not.

If there are errors, you have to take time to find out what is wrong, and you need to fix it. This would be a time-consuming process if it weren’t for the availability of a Gerber file viewer. This can help you find both common and uncommon Gerber file errors, so you don’t end up sending a bad design to be manufactured.

Types of Gerber File Errors

There are many types of Gerber file errors that could cause issues with your PCB. One of the most common is missing drill files. These files are used to determine the location and the size of the holes that need to be drilled. Since many PCBs require that holes are drilled into them, this is important information that will need to be there for the manufacturer.

Sometimes, the files might have missing outlines, or they might have double outlines. There could be issues with a mismatched PCB size, the drill hole placement might cut into the tracing, or the plated and non-plated holes might not be defined clearly. The layer labeling might not be clear, and having naming protocols that are not effective can lead to confusion. It can also cause problems for you when you are trying to check the files and do the troubleshooting for the circuit. It is important that you make sure the labeling system is clear and understandable.

Something else that you will want to keep in mind is that you should have just a single aperture list. There might be a temptation to have different lists, but this can cause confusion with the manufacturer. They might not see the list, or you might have inadvertently put conflicting information on two different lists. Having just a single aperture list is always a good idea.

Common Errors Easily Caught

Even though these mistakes might seem simple, they happen relatively frequently. When they occur, it means that it will take time, energy, and money to find the mistakes and correct the errors. If the PCBs were to go into production at this point, it could mean a massive waste of money on your part. You do not want to go through any of these issues, and you certainly don’t want to make mistakes with your Gerber files.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help relieve these types of issues and catch problems early. This will ensure that you can fix those problems before they affect the actual production.

How a Gerber File Viewer Can Help

One of the best things to do is to use a Gerber file viewer, which will allow you to more quickly and easily find problems with your files. There are Gerber file viewers online that you can use, and one of the best is offered through Advanced Circuits. With our PCB file viewer, FreeDFM, you will be able to add your files to the system and find the potential problems that exist. Unlike some of the other Gerber file viewers, you will find that this software even has the ability to correct certain issues automatically.

The software is easy to use. You will have to export files from the program you are using and then load them online to the site. Best of all, the software from Advanced Circuits is free to use. All you need to do is supply an email address where the results will be sent after the file is checked. You will receive a report that will let you know about any issues that were found with the PCB design, and it can provide details about those problems. It will also let you know what problems were fixed by the software.

If you have been designing your circuits using these files, as many do, it is imperative that you use a Gerber file viewer. It can help you to eliminate headaches down the road that would cause production delays and increased costs.

Other Ways Advanced Circuits Can Help

In addition to the free Gerber file viewer, Advanced Circuits offers free software called PCB Artist. This software provides users with a range of features and benefits, including more than half a million parts and the ability to design PCBs that are up to 28 layers. The software can be downloaded right through the site. It can make the process of designing and getting the circuits ready to prototype and manufacture faster. While the system is easy to use, there are also video tutorials, a user’s guide, and tips and tools on the site that can help you to get started. Through the use of the software, you’ll reduce the risk of errors in your PCB designs.

In addition, Advanced Circuits provides high-quality customer service for clients. There is 24-hour tech support, so you can always get in touch with a CAM engineer if needed. You will be able to order only as many circuit boards as you need, since we don’t require a minimum order. We can provide you with fast turnaround times, fast shipping, and customer service that helps to ensure that you are getting the boards that you need. Get in touch with Advanced Circuits for a quote, and learn more about how we can help with your manufacturing needs.

Understand the Mil Grade PCB Specifications

Those who would like to create circuit boards that can meet military specifications will need to make it a point to familiarize themselves with the current specs and standards. They will also need to create a plan that will ensure they are met before they begin designing the circuit. It will help for the designers to be familiar with the performance criteria that will need to be met, and to have a quality assurance plan to ensure they are adhering to the standards each step along the way.

Users are also going to want to learn the testing requirement and then create a testing regimen that checks those requirements. They will need to make sure that the circuit design is perfect and then continue to test it to look for any errors or weaknesses that might need to be addressed. Once the design is as perfect as it can be, and it meets the mil grade PCB specifications, it is possible to connect with a manufacturer.

However, not just any manufacturer will do. Even though someone might have a great design for a PCB, they have to be sure the manufacturer has the skills and tools to execute properly. This means they should always choose to work with a company that has worked on military contracts and have the ability to realize the design.

The mil grade PCB specifications will need to be matched exactly for anyone who is trying to create a genuinely military-grade board. Failure to adhere to any of the specifications will result in the circuit board not being usable. Even though it might still be viable, it would not be considered usable by the military because it fails to meet the specs, wasting time and energy in the process.

Why Are Military Grade PCBs Held to a High Standard?

The military requires PCBs that will provide them with high reliability and durability even when they are being used under challenging conditions in extreme environments. By creating boards that have high-temperature laminates, high-quality aluminum, and the best components, it will help to ensure that they can stand up to use in harsh locations and in machines, equipment, and vehicles that might be in a war zone.

Whether it is radar, lighting systems, targeting systems, or another use entirely, the military requires the best because there are often no second chances. If a PCB were to fail in the field, it would mean the loss of a mission or even a loss of life. Strict adherence to the military grade PCB specifications is essential.

Even those who are creating circuits that will not be used in any military capacity will want to consider creating according to the mil grade PCB specifications. This will help to ensure better quality, highly reliable PCB. The cost of these boards will typically be somewhat higher depending on the exact specs that are used, but most will find that the added cost will be well worth it. Regardless of what type of circuit is being created, ensuring that it is the best quality possible is always a good idea.

Why Put Your Trust in a Third-Party PCB Manufacturer?

When choosing a company to manufacture PCBs that need to meet mil grade PCB specifications, it makes sense to work with a company that can produce printed circuit boards for the Department of Defense Contracts. Even if individuals are not creating PCBs that are for the military, knowing that they are working with a manufacturer that is trusted by the military can provide greater peace of mind.

Those interested should contact a trusted manufacturer in the field that provides state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities to meet whatever design criteria is set forth. These high-quality options can provide buried chip resistors, stacked microvias, laser-drilled microvias, direct laser imaging, blind and buried vias, up to 40 layers, air pockets between the layers, heavy copper, multilayer RF designs, oversized boards, and more to meet specific needs.

They will also have new materials that can be used for a range of designs. These include halogen-free UL certified materials, high-speed/ultra-low DK, new RF products, Rogers 2929 bondply, 3M ECM, ROHACELL, and Zeta Lam SE.

It is important to choose a leader in producing PCBs for commercial use as well as for aerospace, the medical field, and other markets. Regardless of what it is you need for the PCB, users should be able to trust the manufacturer’s commitment to providing the best in quality, performance, and reliability in the industry.

Learn More About Mil Grade PCBs and Other Services

Those interested in having their PCBs manufactured through a manufacturer can learn more about what the company offers and then get in touch. In addition to the fast turnaround time, they should provide reliable manufacturing and assembly of the PCBs that are needed. All of the orders received will have a free engineering file review before they head to fabrication. This helps to ensure that buyers are not wasting your time and money with a circuit that does not work properly.

A good company has around the clock tech support for those who may have questions that can’t wait to get answered. It is also helpful if they don’t require a minimum amount when placing a PCB order. This allows customers to only have to buy what they need so they do not need to worry about having a hundred extra PCBs lying around.

Manufacturers may provide a free Gerber file viewer online, can give an instant quote, and can work with customers to create exactly what is needed. The sooner an interested buyer gets in touch, the sooner they can have your PCBs in hand thanks to fast manufacturing and shipping processes.