Question 1

What files do I need to send to a PCB manufacturer for wholesale production?

Accepted Answer

Standard PCB fabrication data includes: Gerber RS-274X files for each copper layer (top copper, bottom copper, inner layers), soldermask layers (top and bottom), silkscreen layers (top and bottom), and board outline; NC drill file in Excellon format specifying drill sizes and locations; Fabrication drawing (Fab notes) specifying board thickness, laminate material and Tg, copper weight per layer, surface finish type, IPC class (2 or 3), UL marking requirement, RoHS compliance, and any special requirements. For complex boards (HDI, impedance-controlled, blind/buried vias), additionally provide impedance control specifications and via fill requirements.

Question 2

What is IPC Class 2 vs IPC Class 3 for PCBs?

Accepted Answer

IPC-A-600 and IPC-6012 define three acceptability classes for PCBs. Class 1 covers general electronics products where the primary requirement is function — cosmetic imperfections are acceptable. Class 2 covers dedicated service electronics (consumer electronics, industrial equipment, telecommunications) where extended life and reliable performance are required — this is the standard class for most commercial PCB production. Class 3 covers high-reliability electronics (military, aerospace, medical life-support, automotive safety-critical) where continued performance is critical and downtime is unacceptable — Class 3 imposes stricter dimensional, metallurgical, and cosmetic requirements and requires more extensive inspection documentation. Class 3 PCBs carry a significant price premium (typically 20–50% over Class 2) and require inspection to IPC-A-600 Class 3 criteria.

Question 3

What is a typical MOQ for wholesale PCBs from China?

Accepted Answer

PCB MOQs depend on board complexity. For standard prototype and small-batch PCBs (1–4 layers, standard FR4), Chinese quick-turn manufacturers offer 5–10 piece minimums with 24–72 hour lead times for straightforward boards. For production quantities, most Chinese PCB manufacturers set minimums by panel (one panel typically contains multiple identical boards) — common minimums are 10–50 panels for standard 2–4 layer boards, with 100+ panels for production runs. For advanced HDI, rigid-flex, or specialty materials, minimums are typically 50–200 panels or by NRE (non-recurring engineering) agreement. Mixed assembly (PCBA) minimums are typically 50–200 boards for SMT assembly.

Question 4

Which Chinese PCB manufacturers are suitable for automotive-grade (IATF 16949) requirements?

Accepted Answer

Automotive-grade PCB manufacturing requires IATF 16949 quality management system certification, PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) capability, controlled material traceability, and AEC-Q compliant process controls. Chinese PCB manufacturers with established automotive-grade credentials include Shengyi Electronics (PCB and CCL), Shennan Circuits (IATF 16949 certified), AT&S China (Austrian-owned, IATF 16949), and Tripod Technology China. Always verify IATF 16949 scope specifically covers PCB fabrication (not just sub-processes) and request PPAP Level 3 documentation capability before committing automotive volumes to a Chinese manufacturer.

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PCB types and manufacturing capabilities overview

China, Taiwan, and global PCB manufacturing tiers