If you’re looking for high-quality PCB assembly services in New Hampshire, you have several options to choose from. PCB assembly, or printed circuit board assembly, is the process of attaching electronic components to a printed circuit board to create a functional electronic device. This is an essential step in the manufacturing of electronic products, and finding the right PCB assembly company is crucial to ensuring the quality and reliability of your final product.

One of the top PCB assembly companies in New Hampshire is Core Assemblies. Located in Gilford, NH, Core Assemblies specializes in through-hole and surface mount technology (SMT) PCB assembly, as well as cable harnesses for military, medical, and commercial applications. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Core Assemblies has a reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable PCB assembly services to customers in New Hampshire and beyond. Whether you need a small prototype run or full-scale production, Core Assemblies has the expertise and equipment to meet your needs.

Overview of PCB Assembly in NH

If you are looking for high-quality PCB assembly services in New Hampshire, you are in the right place. New Hampshire has a thriving electronics industry, and there are several companies in the state that specialize in PCB assembly.

PCB assembly refers to the process of assembling electronic components onto a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB is a board made of insulating material with conductive pathways etched onto it. The electronic components are then soldered onto the board to create a functional electronic device.

There are several types of PCB assembly, including surface mount technology (SMT) assembly, through-hole assembly, and mixed technology assembly. SMT assembly is the most common type of PCB assembly used today. It involves attaching components to the surface of the PCB using solder paste and a reflow oven. Through-hole assembly involves inserting components into holes drilled through the PCB and soldering them in place. Mixed technology assembly combines both SMT and through-hole assembly techniques.

When choosing a PCB assembly company in New Hampshire, it is important to consider factors such as experience, expertise, and quality control. Look for a company with a proven track record of delivering high-quality PCB assemblies on time and within budget. You should also look for a company that has experience working with your specific industry and application.

Some of the top PCB assembly companies in New Hampshire include TrekConnect Inc., which offers custom cable assemblies, and PCB Directory, which provides a comprehensive directory of PCB assembly companies in New Hampshire. Another company worth considering is New Honest Group, which offers a range of PCB assembly services using the latest technologies and equipment.

Overall, if you are looking for reliable and high-quality PCB assembly services in New Hampshire, there are several companies that can meet your needs. By choosing a reputable company with experience and expertise in your industry, you can ensure that your PCB assemblies are of the highest quality and meet your specific requirements.

Key Processes in PCB Assembly

PCB assembly is a complex process that involves several key components. The process starts with a bare PCB and ends with a fully assembled and tested board. In this section, we will discuss the key processes involved in PCB assembly.

Solder Paste Stenciling

The first step in PCB assembly is to apply solder paste to the PCB. This is done using a stencil that is placed on top of the PCB. The stencil has openings that correspond to the locations where the components will be placed on the board. Solder paste is then applied to the stencil and pushed through the openings using a squeegee. The solder paste is then left to dry before the components are placed on the board.

Pick and Place

The next step in PCB assembly is to place the components on the board. This is done using a pick and place machine. The pick and place machine uses a vacuum nozzle to pick up the components from a reel or tray and place them on the board. The machine is programmed with the component placement data, which tells it where to place each component on the board.

Reflow Soldering

After the components have been placed on the board, the next step is to solder them in place. This is done using a reflow oven. The board is placed in the oven, and the temperature is raised to a level that melts the solder paste. The solder then re-solidifies, creating a strong bond between the component and the board.

Manual Assembly and Inspection

Not all components can be placed using a pick and place machine. Some components, such as large connectors or heat sinks, must be placed manually. After all the components have been placed on the board, the board is inspected to ensure that all components are in the correct location and that there are no defects. This is done using visual inspection and automated inspection equipment.

These are the key processes involved in PCB assembly. Each step is critical to ensuring that the final product is of high quality and meets the required specifications. By understanding these processes, you can make informed decisions when selecting a provider for your PCB assembly needs.

Advanced Technologies in PCB Assembly

When it comes to Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Assembly, New Hampshire (NH) is home to many companies that use advanced technologies to provide high-quality services. Here are some of the advanced technologies used in PCB assembly:

Surface Mount Technology

Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is a method of PCB assembly that involves mounting components directly onto the surface of the PCB. This method is preferred over through-hole technology because it allows for smaller and more compact designs. SMT also allows for automated assembly, which reduces the cost of production.

SMT involves the use of a solder paste that is applied to the pads on the PCB. The components are then placed on top of the solder paste, and the entire assembly is heated to melt the solder and create a strong bond between the components and the PCB.

Through-Hole Technology

Through-Hole Technology (THT) is a method of PCB assembly that involves mounting components through holes that are drilled into the PCB. This method is preferred for components that require a strong mechanical bond, such as connectors and large components.

THT involves inserting the components into the holes on the PCB and then soldering the leads to the pads on the opposite side of the PCB. This method is often done by hand, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

PCB assembly companies in NH use advanced technologies such as SMT and THT to provide high-quality services to their customers. These technologies allow for smaller and more compact designs, automated assembly, and strong mechanical bonds.

Quality and Testing Protocols

When it comes to PCB assembly in NH, quality and testing protocols are critical to ensure that the final product meets the required standards. There are two main types of testing that are commonly used in the industry: automated optical inspection (AOI) and functional testing.

Automated Optical Inspection

AOI is a process that uses cameras and software to inspect the surface of the PCB for defects. This includes checking for missing components, incorrect component orientation, solder joint defects, and more. AOI is a non-contact method of inspection that can detect defects that are not visible to the naked eye. It is a fast and accurate way to ensure that the PCB is free from defects.

Functional Testing

Functional testing is a process that verifies that the assembled PCB meets the required functionality. This involves testing the PCB under specific conditions to ensure that it performs as expected. Functional testing can be done manually or using automated test equipment. It is an essential step in the manufacturing process that ensures that the final product meets the required specifications.

In addition to these testing methods, quality control is also an important part of the process. This includes inspecting the PCB at various stages of the assembly process to ensure that it meets the required standards. Quality control can help to prevent defects from occurring and ensure that the final product is of the highest quality.

Overall, quality and testing protocols are critical to the success of PCB assembly in NH. By using AOI and functional testing, along with quality control, manufacturers can ensure that the final product meets the required standards and specifications.

Choosing the Right PCB Assembly Partner

When it comes to PCB assembly, choosing the right partner is crucial to the success of your project. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know what to look for. In this section, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider when selecting a PCB assembly partner.

Certifications and Standards

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a PCB assembly partner is their certifications and standards. You want to ensure that the company you choose adheres to industry standards and has the necessary certifications to produce high-quality PCBs.

Some common certifications to look for include ISO 9001, which ensures that the company has a quality management system in place, and IPC-A-610, which sets the standard for PCB manufacturing and assembly. Additionally, if your project requires specific certifications, such as those for medical or aerospace applications, make sure the company you choose has those certifications as well.

Experience and Expertise

Another important factor to consider is the experience and expertise of the PCB assembly partner. Look for a company that has a proven track record of success in PCB assembly and has experience working with a variety of industries and applications.

Ask about their experience with projects similar to yours and what their process is for handling complex projects. Additionally, make sure the company has a team of experts who can provide guidance and support throughout the entire assembly process.

Overall, choosing the right PCB assembly partner is crucial to the success of your project. By considering factors such as certifications, standards, experience, and expertise, you can ensure that you choose a partner who will deliver high-quality PCBs and provide the support you need throughout the entire process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors influence the cost of PCB assembly services?

The cost of PCB assembly services can vary depending on several factors. Some of the key factors include the complexity of the design, the number of components, the size of the board, the type of materials used, and the level of expertise required. Additionally, factors such as the volume of production and the turnaround time can also impact the cost.

How can I find reputable PCB assembly providers in New Hampshire?

To find reputable PCB assembly providers in New Hampshire, you can start by conducting online research. Look for providers that have a solid reputation in the industry and have been in business for several years. You can also check for reviews and testimonials from previous customers to get an idea of their experience with the provider.

What are the key considerations when choosing a PCB assembly partner?

When choosing a PCB assembly partner, it is important to consider several factors. These include the provider’s experience and expertise, the quality of their work, their turnaround time and delivery schedule, their pricing, and their customer service and support. You should also consider their ability to handle your specific project requirements and any additional services they may offer.

What distinguishes PCB assembly from PCB manufacturing?

PCB assembly involves the process of assembling electronic components onto a printed circuit board (PCB). This process involves mounting the components onto the board, soldering them into place and testing the finished assembly. PCB manufacturing, on the other hand, involves the production of the PCB itself, including the design, fabrication, and testing of the board.

Why might the price of PCB assembly vary between companies?

The price of PCB assembly can vary between companies due to several factors. These include differences in the level of expertise and experience of the provider, the quality of materials used, the volume of production, and the complexity of the design. Additionally, factors such as the turnaround time, shipping costs, and any additional services offered can also impact the price.

What should I expect from a quality PCB assembly process?

A quality PCB assembly process should include several steps to ensure a finished product that meets your specific requirements. These steps should include a thorough review of the design, proper handling and storage of components, accurate placement and soldering of components, and comprehensive testing and inspection of the finished assembly. Additionally, the provider should offer ongoing support and maintenance to ensure the longevity and reliability of the finished product.