PCB Documentation to Give Your Contract Manufacturer Up Front

That’s why it’s imperative to supply your ECM will all the requested documentation as early in the quotation process as possible. This allows for the most complete and accurate quote possible.

So, what are the files the OEM needs? Let’s take a look.

Electronics & PCB Manufacturing Documentation You Need

1. Bill of Material

The bill of material should include:

• Revisions

• Manufacturer

• Manufacturer Part Numbers

• Quantities

• Reference

The bill of material, or BOM, is arguably the most important document you’ll provide. The BOM provides a manufacturer critical information like approved vendors, raw materials, and components used in the assembly.

The ideal format for a BOM is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet or text file. If you are unsure of what to include in your BOM, the supplier should be able to provide you a checklist of what it needs.

2. Assembly Drawings

Fab Drawings

Fabrication drawings should contain information like:

• Board dimensions

• Thickness

• Layer number

• Part number

• The most recent revision to the design

If the project requires non-recurring engineering, provide the pricing of the engineering with as much detail as possible.

Gerber Files

Gerber files are the industry-standard format used to describe printed circuit boards. These are used to create the stencils and for placement of the components. There should be a Gerber file for each image layer:

• Copper layers

• Silk screen

• Solder mask
  
  

3. Approved Custom Item Supplier(s)

Are you using any custom component suppliers? Make sure your contract manufacturer knows up front.

This could include:

• The PCB itself

• Transformers

• Metal work
  
  

4. Testing, Sampling, & More

Are you looking for any of these services as part of your package? Clarify this with your electronics manufacturer:

• Programming information (if applicable)

• Test requirements (if applicable)

• Pick and place files (if available)

• A product sample (if available)
  
  
  

5. Any Special Processes

Does your project need anything out of the ordinary? Are there special processes required because of its sensitive, complex, or dangerous nature?

This could include:

• RoHS compliance

• Conformal coating

• Functional test

• In-circuit test
  
  
  

6. Other Helpful Information

Yep; there’s a lot to electronics quoting. Make sure to supply these bits of information to your partner. Some of them may sound dumb, but you’d be surprised how often they’re omitted!

• Quotation quantity

• EAU

• Standard delivery/quick-turn delivery

• Full company name and address

• Contact Name

• Technical contact

• IPC Class (1, 2, or 3)

• ITAR\EAR assembly

• Lot tracking

• Other customer/special requirements

Good luck!