PCB Assembly FAQ

1. On turn-key jobs, what does Bittele Electronics do about part crossing or substitutions?

First of all, we check your Bill of Materials (BOM), and send you the list of what we already have in our inventory. These are mostly low price or Free Parts. We will give you advice on how to reduce BOM costs by parts crossing and using our free stock parts, but all part changes are your own final decision.

2. How do you order components for Turn-Key PCB orders?

We order volume quantities if the parts in your Bill of Materials are common, and none remain in our inventory. If we generally keep your chosen parts in stock, you will pay little or nothing for these components. For uncommon parts listed in your BOM, we usually order 5% or 5 spare parts (depending on size and cost) to accomplish your order without missing parts or shortages due to Production Loss. We cover the cost of production loss on our end, so you never have to worry about paying extra. If we encounter any Issues With BOM Components, such as a large minimum order for a certain part, we will communicate with you to find the best solution.

3. What is the lead time on a turn-key order?

The overall project Lead Time is the sum Parts Procurement lead time and PCB Assembly lead time. However, we try to shorten the time line by streamlining our PCB Assembly Process. For instance, once we receive your Gerber Files for PCB Fabrication and BOM for PCB Assembly, we will start to prepare the stencil for your board and complete the fabrication concurrently with the parts procurement process.

4. Is there a minimum order size for turn-key PCB orders?

No. We have no restrictions on your order size; however, larger orders are more cost effective. If you discuss your target price with your Bittele account manager, we can work with you to find a good solution for your specific needs in cost reduction.

5. What happens to the leftover components on Turn-Key orders?

We can keep your leftover parts in our inventory for your next order if you think these parts will be used again; otherwise, we can ship spare parts with your completed order so you have access to them for troubleshooting and repairs. For testing and evaluation purposes in your lab, you can also order the regular parts from us for free. Please don't forget to inquire with us when your PCBs are ready for shipment.

6. What do I need to send for a turn-key PCB order?

  1. Bill of Materials, complete information in excel format. This document should include manufacturer names, part numbers, Reference Designators, component descriptions, and quantities.
  2. Gerber Files
  3. Centroid Data (AKA Pick and Place or XY-Coordinate Data)
  4. Other requirements or assembly instructions if applicable

7. What is Centroid data?

Centroid data (AI, Pick-and-place or XY data) - This is the machine file, which should include: X, Y, Side of Board (Top or Bottom), and Reference Designator. It is used by our Automated PCB Assembly machines to determine where each part should be located on the board.

8. Can you handle lead-free builds?

Yes, we have two additional production lines for Lead-Free PCB Assembly

9. Do you X-ray BGAs?

Yes. We also use X-Ray Inspection for any lead-less IC pins and other parts that have leads which cannot be seen with a microscope.

10. Can you do a partial assembly?

Yes, we do partial assemblies. Please tell us which components you do not want to be placed by noting in your BOM “Do Not Include (DNI)”.

11. How should I kit parts if I'm submitting multiple orders?

  1. Multiple kits can be sent in one package, but every package must be marked with each order number
  2. Parts used on multiple jobs should be marked with a sticker to note they are shared
  3. Make sure you provide 5% extra parts for each separate build
  4. See our handy Consigned Parts Guide for more information

12. How do I need to supply my PCB components?

  1. Each bag, tray, etc. should be clearly marked with the part number, reference designators that is listed on your bill of materials.
  2. Components which are sensitive to moisture or static must be packaged in compliance with their storage requirement.
  3. SMT components provided must be sealed tightly or taped firmly. Sending them loose may cause components damage and the production delay.

13. How should I ship packages to Bittele Electronics ?
Please mark each package with your PO number and mail to:

Bittele Electronics Inc.
2680 14th Avenue, Unit 1&2
Markham, ON L3R 5B2, Canada
416-800-7540


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