We've been using contractors for circuit board prototyping and assembly. What makes you so sure we can do these tasks in-house with no previous experience?

Many companies have seen a major decrease in PCB production expenses by bringing their circuit board prototyping and assembly in-house. Quicker turn-around, better quality control and faster test and implementation of engineering changes are added advantages

Can anticipated savings from building boards in-house be realistically calculated? If so, how?

If you are presently outsourcing PCB assembly, your invoices should reveal cost-per-board assembly, in-house production costs can be estimated by totaling costs of materials (raw-boards), components and labor, For a truer perspective, utilities and two-year equipment amortization should also be factored in.

Where can we get a quick education on circuit board assembly?

The basic technology is not all that complicated. Access this link for a quick presentation on the basics of circuit board assembly. You'll easily grasp the role of each machine in the assembly process.

How much dedicated floor space is required for a pick and place machine?

The dimensions of each machine are usually found in manufacturer's specifications

Just total the combined square footage of all machines, plus figure at least an additional 3 sq. ft width around the entire perimeter of your assembly line to allow for feeders and operator access. If future equipment purchases are contemplated, it would be wise to also allocate this space at startup.

What do you figure our upfront costs (including equipment) will be?

Our Buyers Guide will be of major help in determining costs of pick and place machines. For stencil printer and reflow oven estimates, we recommend accessing websites of reliable equipment providers, such as www.manncorp.com.

Will this move increase our manufacturing payroll?

Possibly not, since an existing non-experienced employee or two can be trained to program and operate PCB production equipment. Your equipment vender should provide onsite training and stay until your people are at ease with his machines

How long will it take us to be up and running?

Once the equipment is installed and operators trained, it should take no more than two or three weeks to be in production. You will need this additional time to acquire bare boards, stencil(s), and component inventory.

Other than price, what other criteria should be used for selecting an equipment supplier?

First, ask for and do contact a few of the prospective vendor's customers. Find out their experience with the machine(s) and if the location is convenient to you, arrange a visit so you can see the equipment in operation. Above all, be certain the machines you are considering will build your product effectively Allow room for growth to protect your product investment. This is especially important if your product and component mix will change or production targets expand.

Should I purchase new or used equipment?

New equipment means the latest technology in both hardware and software, a full warranty, up-to-date user manual, and service and support, often including installation and on-site training. New equipment is also less likely to experience breakdowns and if you do have a problem it should be covered by the warranty. We recommend buying new equipment for the many benefits, and lack of uncertainty that comes with used equipment. Used equipment is not recommended as it can often cost more than buying new, and have several problems along with it. When buying used, you need to check into the equipment condition, if there is a warranty, capability of the machine, availability of spare parts, software updates and if you have access to the updated user manuals. You also sacrifice the training, installation, and support that you would receive with new equipment.