Understanding PCB Circuit Board Quotations

When it comes to obtaining quotations for PCB circuit boards, there are several key factors that contribute to the complexity of the pricing process:

1. PCB Area (Size)

The area of the PCB design drawing plays a significant role in determining the quotation. Whether it’s a rectangle, circle, or irregular shape, minimizing material waste is crucial. Larger volumes per board generally result in lower prices.

2. Base Material

The choice of base material is critical in PCB manufacturing. While factories have established partnerships with suppliers, special material requirements can impact pricing. For example, materials like Rogers for microwave RF applications cost more than standard FR4.

3. Board Layers

The number of layers in a PCB, such as FR4 or High TG, can exponentially affect the cost. More layers mean higher production costs.

4. Production Cycle

Production times for single-sided and double-sided boards typically range from 3-4 days. Expedited services, like 48-hour or 24-hour options, are available at additional costs once all design issues are resolved.

5. Special Processes

Special processes or materials beyond standard factory operations can incur extra costs based on design requirements.

6. Additional Considerations

Factors like board thickness, solder mask color, surface finish, electronic testing, number of boards, and character color can also impact pricing and production timelines.

With the advancement of Internet technology, many PCB manufacturers now provide online platforms for submitting design files and automating the ordering process. However, due to the evolving nature of e-commerce in the manufacturing industry, online quotations are currently limited to simpler board designs.