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Rapid PCB Prototyping-How to Pick An Appropriate Manufacturer?

2022-11-03

When developing a new product, each idea need design, built and test, and most developers use prototyping for this purpose.

Prototyping is an important part of the design process, but it also faces some challenges, as many manufacturers do not accept small orders, resulting in increased product design time and time-to-market.

Rapid printed circuit prototyping can solve this problem.

What is Rapid PCB Prototyping?

PCB prototyping focuses on functional design with the primary purpose of testing to meet the functional requirements of the project. And it is possible that the PCB prototype is not the final form of the product. Rapid PCB prototyping is characterized by speed, which helps to shorten the design and testing process.

Differences Between Prototypes and Final Products

  • Materials:

The materials used in the final product may be expensive or not easily manufactured, so prototypes are made with materials different from the final product. Sometimes even the materials for the final product are still under development and not yet available for use in prototypes.

  • Process:

Mass production does not lend itself to making small quantities of parts, so prototypes may be made using a different process than the final product. For example, a final product made by plastic injection molding requires expensive molding tooling, and prototypes can be made by machining or 3D printing to save money.

  • Validation:

The final product may require several quality tests to verify compliance with the design or specifications. Some adjustments or rework are usually assumed as part of the manufacturing process. Prototypes can also be exempt from some of the requirements that apply to the final product.

What Are the Advantages of Rapid PCB Prototyping?

  • Quick turn

Rapid PCB prototyping services provide quick turnaround to minimize wait time to wise up the design process.

  • Accurate results 

Prototyping allows developers to accurately observe and test each circuit design and function.

  • Flexible modifications

By receiving prototypes faster, designers can have more time to verify and evaluate the functionality of each iteration and make timely adjustments.

  • Cost reduction

Rapid PCB prototyping services produce small quantities (typically 5-100pcs) of prototype boards for test floor, helping to save costs. And rapid prototyping speeds up the testing and verification process, thus reducing manufacturing and design costs per project.

How to Pick An Appropriate PCB Prototype Manufacturer?

If you are currently looking for rapid PCB prototyping services, here are a few key points to help you make a better choice:

  1. Fast quote:

Look for a supplier that offers a quick quote for the service you require, if the quoting process is slow, you should not expect their service to be faster.

  1. Rapid manufacturing:

Choose to work with a supplier that has the machines and processes to meet your fast turnaround needs

  1. Experience:

Experienced PCB service companies know what is necessary for a successful project and back up their knowledge and capabilities with certifications.

Explore KingPCB’s prototype services

For a PCB prototype fabricator that offers these features and services, KingPCB LTD can meet your project needs. Contact KingPCB immediately to learn more about PCB prototyping fabrication services and get an instant quote.