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PCBA Special reminders

Five things need to line up before a PCBA order can move to production: the quantity of components supplied, how the boards are arrayed, and three details in your design data. Each one is listed below with what PCBgogo needs from you.

PCB Assembly Requirements at a Glance

#ReminderApplies to
1Parts overagePCBA mass production
2PanelizationMass production; boards under 50 x 100 mm, or any non-rectangular shape
3SilkscreenAll assembly orders
4Paste layersAll assembly orders
5SubstitutionsTurnkey assembly orders

1. Parts Overage (It is for PCBA mass production.)

Additional parts beyond the assembly quantity are required for the proper assembly of PCBs during mass production. This applies to components such as resistors, capacitors, and diodes.

Quantity requirements

ComponentsQuantity to supply
Resistors, capacitors and diodes in 0805, 1206, 2225, SOT, SOD and MELF packagesA minimum of 50 pieces, and at least 50 pieces more than the assembly quantity
Resistors, capacitors and diodes in 0201, 0402, 0603, MiniMELF and other miniature packagesA minimum of 100 pieces, and at least 100 pieces more than the assembly quantity
IC, BGA and QFPNo overage normally required
Expensive parts such as connectors1 to 5 pieces, based on the total assembly quantity

Tape and reel

Components not supplied on reels should be on one continuous strip of tape. If the same component is used across different boards, do not cut the tape into strips. Keep the components on the continuous strip of tape or on the reels.

Leftover components

Components ordered through PCBgogo are not returned by default. If you want them shipped back together with your assembled boards, tell your sales contact in advance.

PCBgogo also offers a leftover material storage service, which keeps the surplus available for a future reorder. Your sales contact can provide the details.


2. Panelization

Panelization is required during mass production of PCBs. If your dimensions are smaller than 50mm x 100mm or if your PCB is of any shape other than rectangular, your boards must be panelized in an array for assembly during mass production.

Board dimensions are smaller than 50 mm x 100 mm.

The board is any shape other than rectangular.

Array requirements are covered under panel requirements for PCB assembly.


3. Silkscreen

Silkscreen for assembly is what identifies where each component goes. Without it, accurate component positions cannot be determined. Boards assembled without silkscreen have to bypass inspection, and errors may occur.

More on how the layer is produced is covered under silkscreen.


4. Paste Layers

We will use paste layers which are provided by customer. If they are not provided, we will create them. When creating paste, PCBgogo does not require customers' approval before usage.


5. Substitutions

For PCBgogo turnkey PCB assembly service, we source all required components based on your Bill of Materials (BOM). Our sourcing team will make every effort to match the exact components specified in your BOM, including part numbers, specifications, and manufacturers whenever possible.

If a component substitution is required due to availability, lead time, or supply chain conditions, we will notify you and obtain your approval before proceeding with any replacement. For more details about BOM requirements and component information, please visit our BOM page.


FAQ: PCB Assembly Requirements

How many spare components do I need to supply?

For resistors, capacitors and diodes in 0805, 1206, 2225, SOT, SOD and MELF packages: a minimum of 50 pieces, and at least 50 pieces more than the assembly quantity. For the same component types in 0201, 0402, 0603, MiniMELF and other miniature packages: a minimum of 100 pieces, and at least 100 pieces more than the assembly quantity. ICs, BGA, and QFP normally need no overage, and expensive parts such as connectors need 1 to 5 pieces based on the total assembly quantity.

Are leftover components returned after assembly?

Components ordered through PCBgogo are not returned by default. If you want them shipped back together with your assembled boards, tell your sales contact in advance. A leftover material storage service is also available, which keeps the surplus for a future reorder.

When does a PCB need to be panelized for assembly?

During mass production, boards must be panelized in an array when the dimensions are smaller than 50 mm x 100 mm, or when the board is any shape other than rectangular.

Do I need to provide silkscreen for assembly?

Yes. Silkscreen is what identifies accurate component positions. Boards assembled without it have to bypass inspection, and errors may occur.

What happens if I do not supply a paste layer?

PCBgogo creates one. Customer approval is not required before the created paste layer is used.

Will components be substituted without telling me?

No. On turnkey orders, PCBgogo sources components according to your BOM and works to match what is listed. If a substitution becomes necessary, PCBgogo notifies you and seeks approval before proceeding.

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