Which Prototype PCB Assembly to Opt for; Turnkey Assembly or Consigned Assembly?
Microelectronics have evolved exponentially over the last few decades. With the upgrades in the printed electronics industry, the manufacturing, fabrication and assembling trends have seen a major shift. While there are some customers that seek complete end-to-end printed electronics solutions, there are some who opt for customized services.
Prototype PCB assembly is an art that requires specialized proficiency. Specifically, there are 2 unique prototype PCB assembly practices:
1. Consigned PCB Assembly
2. Turnkey PCB Assembly
Consigned Prototype PCB Assembly
These PCB assemblies are supplied by the client. A customer may prefer to use consigned PCB electronic components because:
• the customer wants to develop a proprietary product
• the customer already has a large inventory
Any decent prototype PCB assembly manufacturer audits the consigned assembly kit. The bill of materials is cautiously matched with the supplied components and following is verified;
• Tolerance
• Packaging material
• Part numbers
• Accuracy of values
• Sizes
The time required for the generation of audit report depends on the complexity of the circuit.
Turnkey PCB Prototype PCB Assembly
In this type of prototype PCB assembly, the manufacturer is responsible to arrange for the components on the bill of materials. The procurement department has an approved vendor list for PCB components. If the components desired by the customer are not available, then alternate parts are used, given that the customer has approved it. Correct on-time delivery is strictly monitored by the efficient staff for quick turn yields.
Critical Analysis of Turnkey and Consigned Prototype PCB Assemblies
Turnkey PCB prototype assemblies are more popular amongst the users, not just for prototyping but also for low and high volume PCB production whilst the graph trends of consigned prototype PCB assemblies is showing a decline. One of the reasons that turnkey assignment has increased in demand is due to its sturdy supply chain with reliable vendors and delivery system with top-notch products supplied by the OEM (original equipment manufacturer). There is a minimized risk of poor quality PCB electronic components for prototype PCB assembly. The assembly components are fabricated using state-of-the-art equipment.
Sometimes, customers opt for a hybrid solution in which both turnkey and consigned assemblies are used for quick turn prototype PCB assembly. But the primary concern in both the processes is to deliver complete customer satisfaction.