Completing a PCB assembly project is a complex process with many moving parts. While challenges can arise, most issues are preventable or manageable with the right planning and collaboration. Being aware of common risks will help your project team to keep schedules realistic and ensure production runs smoothly.
Here are the most common issues to identify and address before you commit to an electronic manufacturing service.
Design errors in the PCB design may not be apparent early on. Issues with component footprints, thermal design, or layout (including silkscreen) may only become visible during assembly or functional electronics testing. At those stages, it’s a mistake that is costly and time-consuming to correct.
These issues can significantly slow down progress. Ensuring data is accurate and silkscreens are clear can reduce the risk of delays and potential rework later in the process.
Every project depends on the availability of components, so it is important to consider what parts and materials are needed for the PCB assembly from the outset. Supply chain pressures, obsolete parts, and global shortages can introduce delays that are hard to predict.
Early planning and open communication with your electronic manufacturing services partner can help to identify risks before they impact delivery dates. Together, you can mitigate project delays by avoiding single-source components and identifying potential substitutes for parts in advance.
Even with advanced automation, circuit board manufacturers in the UK and worldwide know that state-of-the-art equipment alone does not guarantee a defect-free assembly.
Check that your manufacturer implements robust processes, utilises automated inspection equipment, and has a Quality Management System audited to ISO9001, to ensure that assemblies meet specifications and perform as expected. Picking a manufacturer with high standards of electronics testing and quality control is essential.
Not all delays can be predicted, but by partnering with a company highly experienced in electronic manufacturing services, you will have the means to navigate, mitigate, and detect issues as early as possible to avoid disruption.
At Camtronics, we’ve built our approach around tackling exactly these challenges. From initial enquiry, you’ll be talking to an engineer, not a salesperson.
Our experienced manufacturing engineers support customers with design for manufacturing advice if required, our purchasing team proactively manages component availability, and our dedicated quality processes ensure assemblies conform to your preferred IPC standard.
As a UK-based partner, we combine flexibility, technical expertise, and reliable communication to keep your projects on schedule.
“We have enjoyed an excellent commercial and technical relationship for 20 years with Camtronics. They have supported us in manufacturing and in continuously developing competitive products that keep us at the forefront of the industrial and automotive industry.”
Global industrial sensor & control company
“Throughout our ten-year partnership, we have always valued Camtronics’ commitment to flexibility and communication.
Their collaborative and proactive approach is a major benefit to us and we value the high quality of the increasing number of products they manufacture on our behalf”
Leading UK bio-pharma company
“Camtronics have handled small, one-off panel sample orders right through to large scale production volume orders … and deliveries have always been met.
Communication is a key aspect for us and we have entered into a strong working relationship, one that will hopefully last for a long time.”
Market leading industrial processing company
“Keep up the good work.”
UK based environmental science company
“We love you guys!”
Innovative data logger manufacturer