The evolution of PCB manufacturing has led to the development of sophisticated online quoting systems that provide engineers and designers with immediate pricing and ordering capabilities. This comprehensive guide explores the self-service PCB prototyping quote system, its features, and how to effectively utilize it for your project needs.
Self-service Quote System Overview
Core Features
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
| Real-time Pricing | Instant cost calculation based on specifications | Immediate budget planning |
| DFM Check | Automated design rule checking | Reduces manufacturing errors |
| File Upload Support | Multiple format compatibility | Design flexibility |
| Specification Editor | Interactive parameter adjustment | Custom requirements |
| Price Optimization | Automatic cost-saving suggestions | Budget efficiency |
Supported File Formats
| Format Type | Extension | Version Support |
| Gerber | .gbr, .gbl, .gtl | RS-274X |
| CAD | .brd, .sch | Eagle, Altium |
| ODB++ | .tgz, .zip | 7.0+ |
| Excellon | .drl, .txt | 1.1, 2.0 |
PCB Specifications and Options
Board Parameters
Base Materials
| Material Type | Tg Value | Available Thickness | Price Factor |
| FR4 | 130-140ยฐC | 0.4-3.2mm | 1.0x |
| High Tg FR4 | 170-180ยฐC | 0.6-3.2mm | 1.3x |
| Rogers | 200ยฐC+ | 0.254-3.175mm | 3.5x |
| Aluminum | N/A | 1.0-3.0mm | 2.0x |
Layer Count Options
| Layer Count | Turn Time | Min Trace Width | Min Space |
| 1-2 | 24h | 4mil | 4mil |
| 4-6 | 48h | 4mil | 4mil |
| 8-10 | 72h | 5mil | 5mil |
| 12+ | 96h | 5mil | 5mil |
Surface Finish Options
| Finish Type | Thickness | Shelf Life | Price Factor |
| HASL Lead-Free | 1-40ฮผin | 12 months | 1.0x |
| ENIG | 3-6ฮผin | 12 months | 1.5x |
| Immersion Silver | 8-16ฮผin | 6 months | 1.3x |
| OSP | 0.2-0.5ฮผm | 3 months | 0.9x |
Pricing Structure
Base Price Factors
| Factor | Impact | Calculation Method |
| Board Size | Primary | Area in sq. inches ร base rate |
| Layer Count | Primary | Base ร layer multiplier |
| Material | Secondary | Base ร material factor |
| Quantity | Variable | Sliding scale discount |
Quantity Discount Structure
| Quantity Range | Discount Level | Lead Time Impact |
| 1-5 | Standard Price | Standard |
| 6-20 | 10% off | +0 days |
| 21-50 | 15% off | +1 day |
| 51-100 | 20% off | +2 days |
| 101-500 | 25% off | +3 days |
Special Features Pricing
| Feature | Additional Cost | Time Impact |
| Controlled Impedance | 15% | +1 day |
| Blind/Buried Vias | 30% | +2 days |
| Rush Order | 50% | -50% time |
| Advanced DFM | 10% | +1 day |
Order Process and Timeline
Standard Process Flow
| Stage | Duration | Key Activities |
| Quote Generation | Instant | Specification input, file upload |
| DFM Review | 2-4 hours | Automated + manual check |
| Manufacturing | 24-96 hours | Based on specifications |
| Testing | 4-8 hours | Electrical + visual inspection |
| Shipping | 1-5 days | Based on method |
Order Tracking Milestones
| Milestone | Notification | Action Required |
| Order Placed | Email + SMS | Payment confirmation |
| DFM Complete | Review and approve | |
| Production Start | None | |
| Testing Complete | None | |
| Shipping | Email + SMS | None |
Quality Assurance
Testing Procedures
| Test Type | Parameters | Standard | Coverage |
| Electrical | Continuity, shorts | IPC-9252 | 100% |
| Visual | Surface defects | IPC-A-600 | 100% |
| Impedance | ยฑ10% tolerance | IPC-2141 | Sample |
| Solderability | Wetting | J-STD-003 | Sample |
Quality Metrics
| Metric | Target | Measurement Method |
| First Pass Yield | >98% | Production statistics |
| Customer Satisfaction | >95% | Survey results |
| On-time Delivery | >97% | Shipping records |
| DFM Accuracy | >99% | Issue tracking |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How accurate are the online quotes compared to final pricing?
A1: Online quotes are 100% accurate for standard specifications. Additional costs may only apply if specifications are changed after the quote or if DFM review identifies necessary modifications. Any potential changes are communicated before production begins.
Q2: What is the minimum order quantity for PCB prototypes?
A2: There is no minimum order quantity. You can order as little as one piece. However, due to setup costs, the per-unit price decreases significantly with larger quantities. See our quantity discount structure table for detailed pricing breaks.
Q3: How are design files protected during the online quoting process?
A3: All uploaded files are protected through:
- 256-bit SSL encryption during transfer
- Secure cloud storage with encryption at rest
- Automated file deletion after 30 days
- Non-disclosure agreement coverage
- Access restricted to essential personnel only
Q4: What happens if the automated DFM check finds issues?
A4: If the automated DFM check identifies issues:
- You receive an immediate notification with detailed report
- Suggested modifications are provided
- You can either update your design or approve production with acknowledged risks
- Technical support is available for consultation
Q5: Can rush orders be accommodated through the self-service system?
A5: Yes, rush orders can be processed through the self-service system with:
- 50% expedite fee for half standard lead time
- Available for boards up to 8 layers
- Automatic availability check based on current capacity
- Priority handling at all stages
Conclusion
The self-service PCB prototyping quote system represents a significant advancement in PCB manufacturing accessibility and efficiency. Through automated processes, comprehensive specification options, and transparent pricing, it enables designers and engineers to quickly obtain accurate quotes and proceed with manufacturing. The system’s integration of DFM checks, quality assurance, and tracking capabilities ensures a smooth and reliable production process from quote to delivery.
