Pcbfabexpress.com Review

Based on checking the website Pcbfabexpress.com, it appears to be a legitimate and highly specialized service for printed circuit board PCB fabrication and assembly.

The site prominently features its quick-turn capabilities, offering delivery as fast as one day for certain services.

This makes it an attractive option for engineers and businesses requiring rapid prototyping or production.

Overall Review Summary:

• Company Establishment: Established in 2003, indicating a long operational history.
• Customer Base: States “10,000+ Customers,” suggesting a significant client portfolio.
• Engineer Team: Claims “10+ DFM/DFA engineers,” highlighting expertise in design for manufacturability/assembly.
• Certifications: Certified ISO 9001:2015, which is a globally recognized standard for quality management systems.
• Manufacturing Location: PCBs fabricated and assembled in the USA, a significant factor for supply chain reliability and quality control.
• Services Offered: Quickturn Standard PCBs, Quickturn PCB Assembly SMT and Thru-hole, Turnkey or Consigned, Rapid Prototype Service, Rigid and Rigid-Flex PCBs, HDI Technologies.
• Quoting System: Offers instant online quotes and custom quotes for complex needs.
• Customer Testimonials: Features multiple testimonials, some with repeating names, which might warrant further verification.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Explicitly mentions IP protection as a reason to choose them, crucial for innovative companies.

The detailed explanations on services, process flow, and technical specifications like layers, materials, trace/space, and drill sizes provide a good overview for potential clients.

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The emphasis on advanced automation and ESD discipline further reinforces a commitment to quality and efficiency.

However, while the website outlines their services and capabilities well, some areas like clear pricing structures beyond “instant quote” and more diverse, verifiable testimonials could enhance trust.

Here are some best alternatives for PCB fabrication and assembly services:

• JLCPCB

  • Key Features: One of the largest PCB manufacturers, offering low-cost PCB prototyping and small-batch production. Wide range of materials, surface finishes, and advanced capabilities. Also provides SMT assembly service.
  • Average Price: Very competitive, often the lowest cost for prototyping. Prices depend on board complexity and quantity.
  • Pros: Extremely affordable, fast turnaround times, large component library for assembly, good for hobbyists and startups.
  • Cons: Customer service can be slower due to high volume, some advanced options might require more communication.

• OSH Park

  • Key Features: Specializes in low-cost, small-batch PCB fabrication, primarily for hobbyists and open-source projects. Offers a unique “panelizing” service where multiple designs are placed on a single panel.
  • Average Price: Price per square inch, often very cost-effective for small boards.
  • Pros: Simple ordering process, high-quality boards, purple solder mask is distinctive, good for small projects and prototypes.
  • Cons: Limited in material options, longer lead times compared to quick-turn services, no assembly service.

• PCBWay

  • Key Features: Offers comprehensive PCB manufacturing and assembly services, including advanced PCBs, flexible PCBs, rigid-flex, and HDI. Strong focus on customer support and rapid prototyping.
  • Average Price: Competitive pricing, often similar to JLCPCB but with more premium service options.
  • Pros: Good balance of price and quality, excellent customer service, wide range of capabilities, active community and sponsorship programs.
  • Cons: Can be slightly more expensive for basic prototypes than JLCPCB.

• Advanced Circuits 4PCB.com

  • Key Features: US-based PCB manufacturer, known for quick-turn services, high-quality boards, and robust customer support. Offers various programs like “Free DFM” and “Free PCB layout software.”
  • Average Price: Generally higher than overseas options, but competitive for US-based manufacturing.
  • Pros: US-made, excellent quality control, quick turnaround options 24-hour, 2-day, strong technical support.
  • Cons: Higher cost, especially for larger quantities.

• Seeed Studio Fusion

  • Key Features: Offers PCB manufacturing and assembly services, popular among makers and developers. Provides various levels of service, from basic prototyping to advanced assembly.
  • Average Price: Competitive for prototyping and small batches.
  • Pros: Integrated ecosystem with other Seeed products, good for IoT and hardware development, solid quality for the price.
  • Cons: Lead times can vary, sometimes less flexible for highly custom requirements.

• Aisler

  • Key Features: European-based, offers high-quality PCB manufacturing, assembly, and 3D printing. Focuses on rapid prototyping and small series, with clear pricing and an intuitive online interface.
  • Average Price: Transparent pricing, good value for European customers.
  • Pros: User-friendly, good quality, quick turnaround for basic boards, supports European customers with local shipping.
  • Cons: May be less competitive on price for very large volumes or for customers outside Europe.

• Sunstone Circuits

  • Key Features: US-based PCB manufacturer offering a wide range of services from quick-turn prototypes to production volumes. Known for their “ValueProto” and “Quickturn” options.
  • Average Price: Mid-to-high range, reflecting US manufacturing and quality.
  • Pros: US-made, reliable quality, comprehensive services, good for complex designs and larger projects.
  • Cons: Higher cost compared to Asian manufacturers.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Pcbfabexpress.com Review & First Look

When you first land on Pcbfabexpress.com, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clear specialization.

The design is clean, focused, and immediately highlights their core offering: quick-turn PCB fabrication and assembly.

This is crucial for anyone in the electronics industry, where time-to-market can make or break a project.

They waste no time in touting their speed, with claims like “Delivery as fast as 1 day” and “Fast turnaround times for assembly 1, 5 or 10 days.” This directness is a strong indicator of a service designed for rapid prototyping and production needs.

Initial Impressions and Key Value Propositions

The top of the homepage features a phone number 408 522-1500 and a prominent “Start an Instant Online Quote” button, suggesting ease of access and quick service initiation. Germanduvetcovers.com Review

This immediate call to action is smart, as engineers and project managers are often on tight schedules and need rapid estimations.

The site clearly outlines their key value propositions:

• Speed: Emphasized through “Quickturn,” “As fast as 1 day,” and various turnaround time options.
• Quality & Reliability: Stated directly as “High-quality and reliability” and backed by an ISO 9001:2015 certification.
• Customer Service: Highlighted as “Top-rated customer service” and reinforced by “Quick customer service when needed” in their “10 reasons to choose” section.
• USA Manufacturing: “PCBs fabricated and assembled in the USA” is a significant selling point, appealing to those who prioritize domestic production for supply chain security, quality control, or geopolitical reasons.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Explicitly listed as a benefit, addressing a major concern for innovators in the hardware space.

Website Navigation and User Experience

Navigating Pcbfabexpress.com is straightforward.

The main menu is concise, and the page is well-structured with clear sections for different services like Quickturn PCB Assembly, Rapid Prototype Service, Rigid and Rigid-Flex, and HDI Technologies.

Each service area has a dedicated “GET CUSTOM QUOTE” or “GET ONLINE QUOTE” button, streamlining the user journey towards obtaining a price. Tsaudiolab.com Review

The “How It Works” section, detailing the quote, assembly, component procurement, and order placement steps, provides a transparent overview of their process, which is very helpful for new users.

The inclusion of a “PCB Design Rules Handbook” for download is a nice touch, demonstrating a commitment to supporting their customers beyond just manufacturing.

This kind of value-added content can build trust and establish the company as an industry authority.

Pcbfabexpress.com Features

Pcbfabexpress.com boasts a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet a wide array of PCB fabrication and assembly needs, from simple prototypes to complex production runs.

Their focus is clearly on delivering high-quality, quick-turn solutions, which is a critical differentiator in the electronics manufacturing space. Seankyleoflondon.info Review

Core Service Offerings

The website details several key service categories:

• Quickturn Standard PCBs: This is their bread and butter, offering fast fabrication. They specify capabilities like up to 8 layers, 150 sq. in. max board size, down to 4 mils trace/space, and 1 or 2 oz outer layer copper, with turnaround as fast as 2 days. This caters to urgent prototyping needs.
• Quickturn PCB Assembly: They provide both Surface Mount Technology SMT and Through-hole assembly. Customers can choose between “Turnkey” where Pcbfabexpress sources all components or “Consigned” customer provides components assembly, offering flexibility. Turnaround times range from 1 to 10 days, depending on complexity.
• Rapid Prototype Service: This service bundles fabrication and assembly, offering a “best-value bundled price.” It’s optimized for quick, cost-effective prototyping, which is essential for iterative design processes.
• Rigid and Rigid-Flex PCBs: Catering to advanced applications, they offer quickturn flex prototypes with a wide variety of materials like Kapton and surface finishes. They support up to 16 layers for rigid-flex, min core thickness of 1 mil flex, and advanced features like blind/buried vias and 3 mils min laser drill/trace/space.
• HDI Technologies: For highly complex and miniaturized designs, they offer High-Density Interconnect HDI boards. This includes capabilities for up to 22 layers, 3 mils min laser drill/trace/space, blind/buried vias, and controlled impedance with 10% tolerance, using exotic materials and up to 3 laminations.

Advanced Capabilities and Quality Assurance

Beyond the basic offerings, Pcbfabexpress highlights several advanced capabilities and quality assurance measures:

• DFM and DFA Checks: They perform Design for Manufacturability DFM and Design for Assembly DFA checks. This is a crucial service that proactively identifies potential manufacturing issues in a design, saving time and money later in the production process. According to a study by McKinsey, implementing DFM early can reduce overall product development costs by 15-20%.
• Component Procurement: For turnkey assembly, they handle component sourcing, streamlining the supply chain for customers. This can be a significant time-saver, especially with current global component shortages.
• Advanced Automation: The website mentions “Advanced automation for cost-effective processes.” Automation can lead to higher precision, consistency, and reduced labor costs, which can translate into competitive pricing for customers.
• ESD Discipline: Electrostatic Discharge ESD discipline is crucial in electronics manufacturing to prevent damage to sensitive components. Their explicit mention of this indicates a commitment to quality and component integrity.
• RoHS Compliance: They ensure RoHS Restriction of Hazardous Substances compliance for their assembly services. This is important for products marketed in regions with environmental regulations, like the European Union.

Pcbfabexpress.com Pros & Cons

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any service provider is key to making an informed decision.

Based on the information presented on Pcbfabexpress.com, here’s a breakdown of its notable pros and potential cons.

The Upsides: What Pcbfabexpress.com Does Well

Pcbfabexpress.com positions itself as a strong contender in the PCB fabrication and assembly market, particularly for those prioritizing speed and quality. Theexpose.uk Review

• Exceptional Turnaround Times: This is perhaps their biggest selling point. With “Delivery as fast as 1 day” for fabrication and quick options for assembly 1, 5, or 10 days, they cater directly to urgent project timelines. This speed can significantly accelerate product development cycles, a major advantage in competitive markets.
• USA-Based Manufacturing: The fact that PCBs are “fabricated and assembled in the USA” is a significant draw.
  • Quality Control: Domestic manufacturing often implies stricter quality control standards and easier communication regarding issues.
  • Supply Chain Security: Reduces reliance on overseas logistics, mitigating risks associated with international shipping delays or geopolitical tensions.
  • Economic Impact: Appeals to companies looking to support domestic industry.
• ISO 9001:2015 Certification: This certification is a globally recognized standard for quality management systems. It indicates that Pcbfabexpress has robust processes in place to ensure consistent product quality and customer satisfaction. A 2019 report by the ISO found that 85% of certified organizations reported improved customer satisfaction.
• Comprehensive Service Range: From standard PCBs to advanced HDI and rigid-flex technologies, and both fabrication and assembly turnkey or consigned, they cover a broad spectrum of needs. This allows customers to source multiple services from a single provider, simplifying project management.
• DFM and DFA Checks: Proactive design analysis helps prevent costly errors and delays down the line. This value-added service demonstrates their commitment to helping customers achieve successful outcomes. Data suggests that DFM implementation can reduce engineering changes by up to 50% during the design phase.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Explicitly stating IP protection provides reassurance to innovative companies that their designs will be safeguarded. This is a critical concern in a highly competitive industry.
• Established Company: Founded in 2003 with “10,000+ Customers” and “10+ DFM/DFA engineers,” the company has a long history and substantial experience in the industry.

Areas for Potential Improvement: Considerations for Customers

While Pcbfabexpress.com offers many benefits, there are a few areas where the website’s information could be enhanced or where potential customers might have questions.

• Pricing Transparency: While they offer “Instant Online Quote” and “Custom Quote” buttons, the website doesn’t provide any general pricing tiers or examples. Customers often prefer to see at least a range or a sample pricing structure to get a preliminary idea of costs before committing to a quote process. This lack of initial transparency can sometimes deter price-sensitive clients who are comparison shopping.
• Customer Testimonial Diversity: The testimonials provided are positive, but multiple instances of the same person Paul D Smith, VP, Engineering, HTE, Poway, California are listed. While consistent positive feedback from a single client is good, a broader range of distinct customer voices from different companies would build more widespread trust and credibility.
• Detailed Material Specifications: While some material types are mentioned e.g., Kapton, a more exhaustive list of available substrates, laminates, and surface finishes with their specific properties could be beneficial for engineers with very particular design requirements.
• Order Tracking Information: The website outlines “How It Works” but doesn’t explicitly detail how customers track their orders once placed. Clear communication on order status and shipping logistics is important for project planning.
• Environmental Certifications beyond RoHS: While RoHS compliance is stated, a broader range of environmental certifications e.g., ISO 14001 for environmental management could appeal to companies with strong sustainability initiatives.
• Customer Support Channels: While “Quick customer service” is mentioned, a clearer outline of support channels e.g., dedicated account managers, live chat, email response times could be helpful.

Pcbfabexpress.com Alternatives

When it comes to PCB fabrication and assembly, the market is competitive, offering a range of choices from budget-friendly offshore options to premium domestic providers.

While Pcbfabexpress.com provides a solid service, exploring alternatives can help you find the perfect fit for your specific project requirements, budget, and turnaround needs.

Here’s a look at some leading alternatives, categorized by their primary strengths.

For Cost-Effectiveness and High Volume Often Offshore

These providers are typically known for offering highly competitive pricing, especially for prototyping and medium to large production runs, often due to their scale and manufacturing locations in Asia. Unwindworldwide.com Review

*   Why it's an alternative: A giant in the low-cost PCB manufacturing space. JLCPCB is renowned for its incredibly competitive pricing for prototyping and small to medium production runs, especially for standard two and four-layer boards. They also offer a comprehensive SMT assembly service with a vast component library.
*   Key Differentiator: Unbeatable pricing and very fast production times once an order is in the queue. They process millions of PCBs annually.
*   Best For: Hobbyists, startups, and companies needing high-volume, low-cost prototypes or production runs where budget is a primary concern.
*   Considerations: While quality is generally good, complex designs or those requiring very tight tolerances might benefit from more specialized providers. Customer support can be slower due to the sheer volume of orders.

*   Why it's an alternative: PCBWay offers a strong balance between competitive pricing and a broader range of advanced capabilities compared to some ultra-low-cost providers. They cover everything from standard PCBs to flexible, rigid-flex, and HDI boards, along with comprehensive assembly services.
*   Key Differentiator: Strong customer support and a wide array of advanced manufacturing options, including specialized materials and surface finishes, without significantly escalating costs. They also have a community and sponsorship programs.
*   Best For: Engineers and companies looking for a good blend of affordability, quality, and technical capabilities for both prototyping and production.
*   Considerations: While often more responsive than some competitors, communication can still have time zone differences.

*   Why it's an alternative: Part of the larger Seeed Studio ecosystem, Fusion offers integrated PCB fabrication and assembly services. It's particularly popular among makers and developers due to its user-friendly interface and focus on enabling hardware innovation.
*   Key Differentiator: Seamless integration with Seeed's other services like component sourcing from their Bazaar and a strong community presence.
*   Best For: Hobbyists, educators, and small to medium enterprises working on IoT, open-source hardware, and embedded systems, especially those already familiar with Seeed's platform.
*   Considerations: Lead times can sometimes vary, and their component library for assembly might be smaller than that of dedicated assembly houses.

For Domestic Manufacturing and Premium Service Often US-Based

These alternatives are typically located in the US and emphasize higher quality control, faster response times, and often more personalized customer service, albeit at a higher price point.

*   Why it's an alternative: As a prominent US-based PCB manufacturer, Advanced Circuits focuses on quick-turn prototypes and small to medium production runs. They are known for their robust quality and excellent customer support.
*   Key Differentiator: "Free DFM" checks, "Free PCB layout software," and 24-hour turnaround options. Their emphasis on customer education and support sets them apart.
*   Best For: US-based companies and engineers who prioritize domestic manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and comprehensive technical support.
*   Considerations: Higher cost compared to offshore manufacturers, which can impact budget for very large volumes.

*   Why it's an alternative: Another well-established US-based manufacturer, Sunstone offers a broad range of services from basic prototypes to complex, high-layer count boards. They have various service levels, including "ValueProto" for cost-effective prototyping and "Quickturn" for expedited orders.
*   Key Differentiator: Strong reputation for reliability and quality over decades of operation. They offer a good balance of speed and advanced capabilities for domestic manufacturing.
*   Best For: US-based businesses requiring reliable, high-quality PCBs with flexible lead times, from initial prototyping to production.
*   Considerations: Similar to Advanced Circuits, their pricing will be higher than most Asian alternatives.

For Specialized Needs and Niche Markets

These providers cater to specific requirements like ultra-small batches, unique materials, or highly specific European supply chains.

*   Why it's an alternative: OSH Park carved out a niche by offering ultra-low-cost PCB fabrication for small-scale projects by panelizing multiple designs onto a single production run. Their distinctive purple solder mask is instantly recognizable.
*   Key Differentiator: Extremely affordable for very small boards and prototypes, simple submission process, and a strong community following.
*   Best For: Hobbyists, students, and open-source hardware developers who need a few copies of a small, simple board and are not on a super tight deadline.
*   Considerations: Longer lead times compared to quick-turn services, limited to a few standard stack-ups, and no assembly service.

*   Why it's an alternative: A European-based service that focuses on high-quality, rapid prototyping and small-series production. They offer PCB fabrication, assembly, and even 3D printing, all through a user-friendly online interface.
*   Key Differentiator: Transparent pricing, easy-to-use online tools, and a strong focus on the European market, which can mean faster shipping and local support for EU customers.
*   Best For: European designers, startups, and small businesses looking for quick, high-quality prototypes and small production runs within the EU.
*   Considerations: Pricing may not be as competitive as large Asian fabs for high-volume orders, and less suitable for customers outside Europe due to shipping.

How to Cancel Pcbfabexpress.com Subscription

The website of Pcbfabexpress.com, from the information provided, does not appear to operate on a subscription model in the traditional sense.

It functions as a service provider where customers place orders for PCB fabrication and assembly on a project-by-project basis.

Therefore, there isn’t a recurring “subscription” that you would typically need to cancel. Iuntrx.com Review

Instead, the process involves initiating new orders when you require their services and completing payment for each specific order.

You are not locked into any ongoing contract or recurring billing for access to the platform itself.

Understanding the Service Model

Pcbfabexpress.com operates like a manufacturing house where you submit design files Gerber files, Bill of Materials, receive a quote, and then place an order for the specified quantity of PCBs or assembly services. Each order is a discrete transaction. This is common for custom manufacturing services.

• No Recurring Fees: There are no monthly or annual fees to use their online quoting tool or to maintain an account.
• Order-Based Transactions: You pay for each PCB fabrication or assembly job as you place it.
• No “Cancellation” of Service: Since there’s no ongoing subscription, there’s no service to cancel in the way you would cancel a Netflix or SaaS subscription. You simply stop placing new orders when you no longer need their services.

If You Need to Stop an Active Order

If you have already placed an order and it’s in progress, but you need to stop or modify it, this falls under order cancellation or modification, not subscription cancellation. The process for this would typically involve:

1. Contacting Customer Service Immediately: As the website mentions “Quick customer service when needed,” your first step should be to call them directly at 408 522-1500 or use any other contact method they provide e.g., email support, support portal if available.
2. Provide Order Details: Have your order number, project name, and any other relevant identifiers ready.
3. Understand Their Policy: Manufacturing processes often move very quickly, especially for “quick-turn” services. There might be a limited window to cancel an order without incurring costs, as materials may have already been procured, or production may have started. They likely have a policy outlining cancellation fees or limitations based on the stage of production. For instance, if raw materials have been cut, you might be charged for those materials. If the board is already being fabricated, the charges could be substantial.
4. Confirm Cancellation: Ensure you receive a confirmation of the cancellation and any applicable refunds or charges in writing.

In summary, you don’t “cancel a subscription” with Pcbfabexpress.com. You manage individual orders. Yourpetltd.com Review

If you have an active order you wish to stop, direct communication with their customer service is paramount.

How to Cancel Pcbfabexpress.com Free Trial

Based on the information available on the Pcbfabexpress.com homepage, there is no mention of a “free trial” for their services.

Their business model appears to be purely transactional, where users pay for specific PCB fabrication and assembly orders.

Companies that offer free trials typically do so for software, online platforms, or recurring services like SaaS products or media streaming. Pcbfabexpress.com provides a manufacturing service for custom hardware.

Understanding Pcbfabexpress.com’s Offering

Instead of a free trial, Pcbfabexpress.com offers: Zzamongrestaurant.com Review

• Instant Online Quotes: You can use their online quote tool https://ecommerce.pcbfabexpress.com/rpa/ to get pricing for your PCB designs without any cost or commitment. This allows you to evaluate their pricing and turnaround times before placing an order. This serves a similar purpose to a trial, allowing you to gauge the service’s fit for your needs without financial risk for the evaluation itself.
• No Obligation: Generating a quote does not obligate you to place an order.
• Project-Based Payments: You only pay when you decide to proceed with a specific fabrication or assembly job.

Why No Free Trial for Manufacturing?

The nature of PCB manufacturing makes a traditional “free trial” impractical:

• Custom Production: Each PCB is a custom product made to your specifications. Manufacturing one or a few boards for free would represent a significant cost to the provider without guaranteed future revenue.
• Material Costs: Raw materials copper, fiberglass, solder mask, components have direct costs associated with them.
• Machine Time & Labor: Operating complex machinery and skilled labor for even a small “trial” run involves substantial overhead.

Therefore, if you’re looking to evaluate Pcbfabexpress.com, your “trial” would be to generate multiple quotes, compare them with competitors, and potentially place a small, low-cost prototype order to test their quality and delivery in a real-world scenario.

You would pay for this prototype, but it would be your investment in verifying their capabilities before committing to larger production runs.

In conclusion, you won’t find a “cancel free trial” option on Pcbfabexpress.com because they don’t offer one. Your engagement is on an order-by-order basis.

Pcbfabexpress.com Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of a custom manufacturing service like Pcbfabexpress.com is crucial for budget planning. Liftnshift.uk Review

While the website prominently features calls to action like “Start an Instant Online Quote” and “GET CUSTOM QUOTE,” it does not display any general pricing tables or example costs directly on its homepage.

This is a common practice for custom manufacturing due to the vast number of variables involved.

How Pcbfabexpress.com Determines Pricing

The price you receive from Pcbfabexpress.com will depend on a multitude of factors, reflecting the complexity, quantity, materials, and urgency of your specific PCB project. Here are the key determinants:

• Number of Layers: This is one of the most significant cost drivers. A 2-layer board will be substantially cheaper than an 8-layer or 16-layer board, as more layers require more complex manufacturing processes, additional lamination cycles, and stricter alignment tolerances.
• Board Dimensions Area: The physical size of your PCB directly impacts material usage. Larger boards generally cost more than smaller ones.
• Quantity: As with most manufacturing, higher quantities typically lead to a lower per-unit cost due to economies of scale in setup and material purchasing.
• Turnaround Time: Pcbfabexpress.com specializes in “quick-turn” services. Opting for a faster delivery e.g., 1-day or 2-day turnaround will almost certainly incur a premium compared to standard turnaround times e.g., 5 or 10 days. Expedited services require prioritization and sometimes overtime production.
• Material Type: Standard FR-4 material is the most cost-effective. However, if your design requires specialized materials like Kapton for rigid-flex, high-frequency laminates, or exotic materials for HDI, the cost will increase significantly.
• Surface Finish: Common surface finishes include HASL Hot Air Solder Leveling, ENIG Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold, OSP Organic Solderability Preservatives, and others. Some finishes are more expensive to apply than others.
• Minimum Trace/Space and Hole Size: Finer traces, smaller spaces, and smaller drill holes especially laser drills for HDI require more precise equipment and tighter manufacturing tolerances, leading to higher costs.
• Complexity of Design Features:
  • Blind/Buried Vias: These add considerable complexity and cost as they require additional drilling and lamination steps.
  • Controlled Impedance: Designs requiring precise impedance control add to the cost due to extra testing and tighter manufacturing process control.
  • Panelization Requirements: How your boards are arranged on a manufacturing panel can also influence cost.
• Assembly Services if applicable:
  • Turnkey vs. Consigned: Turnkey Pcbfabexpress procures components will be more expensive than consigned you provide components due to the added service of component sourcing and potential markup on parts.
  • Number of Components: More components mean more placement operations and potentially more setup time.
  • Component Type: Fine-pitch BGAs, QFNs, and other complex packages require more precise placement and reflow processes, increasing assembly costs.
  • Sidedness: Double-sided assembly is generally more expensive than single-sided.

How to Get a Quote

To get an accurate price, you would typically use their online quote tool:

1. Instant Online Quote for standard PCBs: This is likely for simpler, more common board configurations. You’d input parameters like layers, board size, quantity, and desired turnaround time. The system then generates an immediate price.
2. Custom Quote for complex designs/assembly: For rigid-flex, HDI, or complex assembly jobs, you might need to submit your design files Gerber, BOM, Centroid to their team for a manual review and custom quotation. This process ensures accurate pricing for highly specialized requirements.

Given the customization inherent in PCB manufacturing, the absence of upfront fixed pricing on the homepage is standard practice. Spotfav.com Review

Customers are expected to leverage the online quote tools to get precise costs tailored to their unique project specifications.

Pcbfabexpress.com vs. Competitors

In the highly competitive world of PCB manufacturing and assembly, Pcbfabexpress.com stands out with its focus on US-based quick-turn services.

Let’s stack it up against some of its prominent competitors, highlighting where it shines and where others might offer a different value proposition.

Pcbfabexpress.com vs. Offshore Giants e.g., JLCPCB, PCBWay

The most direct comparison often involves offshore manufacturers known for their low costs and high volumes.

• Cost:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Generally higher pricing due to US labor costs, regulatory compliance, and a focus on premium quick-turn services. While specific pricing isn’t on their site, US-based fabs typically have a higher baseline.
  • JLCPCB/PCBWay: Significantly lower cost, especially for prototyping and small to medium batches. Their massive scale and manufacturing base in China allow for aggressive pricing.
• Turnaround Time:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Excellent quick-turn capabilities, with fabrication as fast as 1 day and assembly in 1-10 days. This is often faster for physical delivery within the US.
  • JLCPCB/PCBWay: Very fast manufacturing times e.g., 2-4 days for bare PCBs. However, total delivery time includes international shipping, which can add 3-7+ days, potentially negating some of the production speed for US customers unless expedited shipping is paid.
• Quality & Standards:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: ISO 9001:2015 certified, US-based manufacturing implies stringent quality control, DFM/DFA checks, and adherence to US industry standards. Strong emphasis on ESD discipline and IP protection.
  • JLCPCB/PCBWay: Also ISO certified and generally produce good quality. However, slight variations in material sourcing or less stringent final inspection due to volume can sometimes occur. IP protection is a common concern for some customers with offshore manufacturing, though reputable firms like these have policies in place.
• Communication & Support:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Likely easier and quicker communication due to being US-based, no time zone differences, and potentially more personalized support.
  • JLCPCB/PCBWay: Support is typically online, and while responsive, language barriers or time differences can sometimes lead to slower resolutions for complex issues.
• Supply Chain Resilience:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Domestic production reduces reliance on international shipping and geopolitical stability, offering greater supply chain resilience.
  • JLCPCB/PCBWay: Vulnerable to international shipping delays, customs issues, and geopolitical tensions, as seen during global events e.g., COVID-19 lockdowns, trade disputes.

Pcbfabexpress.com vs. Other US-Based Fabs e.g., Advanced Circuits, Sunstone Circuits

Comparing within the US market, differences become more nuanced, often boiling down to specific service niches, tooling, and customer support models. Woodbrosdistilling.com Review

• Service Range & Specialization:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Strong emphasis on quick-turn assembly and fabrication, including rigid-flex and HDI. Their “10 reasons to choose” highlights their specific strengths like advanced automation and DFM/DFA.
  • Advanced Circuits/Sunstone Circuits: Both offer a wide range of services, including quick-turn. Advanced Circuits is known for its free DFM checks and layout software, and Sunstone for its reliable production capabilities across various volumes. The core offerings are largely similar.
• Pricing:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Likely competitive within the US market for quick-turn services. Exact pricing would need direct quotes.
  • Advanced Circuits/Sunstone Circuits: Also operate at higher price points compared to offshore. They often have different pricing tiers for various speeds e.g., 24-hour, 2-day, standard.
• Customer Experience:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: The website emphasizes “top-rated customer service” and quick responses. Testimonials suggest positive experiences.
  • Advanced Circuits/Sunstone Circuits: Both have long-standing reputations for strong customer support, technical assistance, and reliable delivery within the US. Advanced Circuits’ free DFM is a significant customer-centric feature.
• Market Focus:
  • Pcbfabexpress.com: Appears geared towards businesses and engineers needing rapid prototypes and small-to-medium production runs with a strong focus on complex technologies like HDI and rigid-flex.
  • Advanced Circuits/Sunstone Circuits: Serve a broad spectrum of clients from hobbyists to large corporations, with strong offerings for both prototyping and volume production.

In essence, Pcbfabexpress.com positions itself as a reliable, fast, and high-quality US-based manufacturer, particularly for urgent and complex PCB needs.

While offshore competitors offer lower costs, Pcbfabexpress.com aims to win on speed, domestic supply chain reliability, and robust engineering support.

When compared to other US fabs, its strengths lie in its stated automation for cost-effectiveness and clear emphasis on quick-turn assembly capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Pcbfabexpress.com offer?

Pcbfabexpress.com offers a comprehensive range of services including quick-turn standard PCB fabrication, quick-turn PCB assembly SMT and Through-hole, turnkey or consigned, rapid prototype services fab only or fab + assembly, rigid and rigid-flex PCB fabrication, and HDI High-Density Interconnect technologies.

How fast can Pcbfabexpress.com deliver PCBs?

Pcbfabexpress.com boasts very fast turnaround times, with delivery as fast as 1 day for certain quick-turn PCB fabrication orders and assembly turnaround times ranging from 1, 5, or 10 days depending on the complexity and service chosen. 1percent.com Review

Is Pcbfabexpress.com an ISO certified company?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com is certified ISO 9001:2015, indicating their adherence to a globally recognized standard for quality management systems.

Where are Pcbfabexpress.com’s PCBs manufactured and assembled?

Pcbfabexpress.com states that its PCBs are fabricated and assembled in the USA, emphasizing domestic production for quality and supply chain reliability.

Does Pcbfabexpress.com offer DFM/DFA checks?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com explicitly mentions performing Design for Manufacturability DFM and Design for Assembly DFA checks as part of their service offerings, which helps identify and resolve potential manufacturing issues early.

Can I get an instant quote from Pcbfabexpress.com?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com provides an “Instant Online Quote” tool on its website for standard PCB requirements.

For more complex or custom projects, they offer a “GET CUSTOM QUOTE” option. Luxuryfurniture.com Review

What types of assembly services does Pcbfabexpress.com provide?

Pcbfabexpress.com offers both SMT Surface Mount Technology and Through-hole assembly services.

Customers can choose between “Turnkey” assembly, where Pcbfabexpress sources components, or “Consigned” assembly, where the customer provides the components.

What are the maximum layers Pcbfabexpress.com supports for rigid-flex and HDI?

For rigid-flex PCBs, Pcbfabexpress.com supports up to 16 layers.

For HDI technologies, they can handle up to 22 layers.

Does Pcbfabexpress.com handle component procurement for assembly?

Yes, for their turnkey assembly service, Pcbfabexpress.com offers component procurement, handling the sourcing of parts for your project. Curs.md Review

Is intellectual property protected with Pcbfabexpress.com?

Pcbfabexpress.com lists “Intellectual property protection” as one of the 10 reasons to choose their service, indicating their commitment to safeguarding customer designs.

What is the minimum trace/space capability for Pcbfabexpress.com?

Pcbfabexpress.com supports a minimum trace/space down to 4 mils for standard PCBs and 3 mils for advanced Rigid and Rigid-Flex and HDI technologies.

Does Pcbfabexpress.com support blind/buried vias?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com supports blind/buried vias for both their Rigid and Rigid-Flex and HDI technologies, catering to complex design requirements.

Can Pcbfabexpress.com handle RoHS compliant assembly?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com states that their optimized reflow processes for assembly are RoHS compliant, which is important for environmental regulations.

Does Pcbfabexpress.com have a physical address listed on its homepage?

The provided homepage text does not explicitly list a full physical address, but it does provide a phone number: 408 522-1500. Ucanplay.org.uk Review

What kind of materials does Pcbfabexpress.com work with for flexible PCBs?

For flexible PCBs, Pcbfabexpress.com mentions working with materials such as Kapton, along with a wide variety of other materials and surface finishes.

How many customers does Pcbfabexpress.com claim to have?

Pcbfabexpress.com states that it has served “10,000+ Customers” since its establishment in 2003.

What is the oldest establishment date mentioned for Pcbfabexpress.com?

Pcbfabexpress.com states that it was “Established in 2003,” indicating a significant history in the industry.

Are there any educational resources provided by Pcbfabexpress.com?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com offers a “PCB Design Rules Handbook” available for download, which includes stack-up tips, common DFM/DFA errors, and component placement guidelines.

Does Pcbfabexpress.com support small to medium prototype quantities?

Yes, Pcbfabexpress.com explicitly states that they support “Small to medium prototype to production-level quantities,” making them suitable for various project scales.

Are there any customer testimonials available on the Pcbfabexpress.com homepage?

Yes, the Pcbfabexpress.com homepage features several customer testimonials praising their quick response, quality, on-time delivery, and competitive prices.