Production Engineering
Manufacturing Support
Getting your PCB into production is as critical as designing it. We prepare complete NPI packages, vet and manage contract manufacturers, oversee first-article builds, and drive yield improvement — so production runs smoothly from day one.
What We Deliver
CM Selection & Vetting
We evaluate contract manufacturers against your quality, lead-time, and cost requirements — reviewing their process capabilities, certifications, and track record.
NPI Package Preparation
Complete New Product Introduction packages: Gerbers, ODB++, drill files, IPC-2581, assembly drawings, BOM with approved alternates, and fab notes.
Quote & BOM Scrubbing
BOM review for obsolete, long-lead, and single-source parts. Cross-reference with approved alternates and supply chain risk assessment.
First Article Inspection
Coordinate and review first article inspection (FAI) reports, AOI data, and X-ray results to confirm the CM's output meets design intent.
Process Engineering
Solder paste volume optimisation, reflow profile development, selective solder guidelines, and press-fit connector tooling requirements.
Yield Improvement
Statistical analysis of production test and AOI data to identify systematic defects, drive root-cause investigations, and improve line yield.
Our Process
Production Readiness Review
We audit your design data package against a manufacturing checklist — confirming all files, notes, and tolerances are complete and unambiguous.
CM Engagement
Issue RFQs to pre-vetted CMs, review DFM feedback, and manage clarification cycles to lock in price, lead time, and quality terms.
NPI Hand-Off
Transfer the full NPI package to the CM with a formal review meeting covering critical assembly steps and inspection requirements.
Prototype Build Oversight
Monitor prototype build, review in-process photos and AOI reports, and attend or coordinate virtual first-article inspection.
First Article Approval
Review FAI package against acceptance criteria. Issue disposition (pass / rework / reject) and drive corrective action if needed.
Volume Ramp Support
Support production ramp with yield monitoring, process parameter optimisation, and engineering change order (ECO) management.
Ongoing Sustaining
Sustaining engineering support for component EOL replacements, process changes, and continuous improvement throughout the product lifecycle.
Capabilities
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you manage the contract manufacturer relationship on our behalf?
- Yes. We can act as your manufacturing engineering representative — issuing RFQs, managing DFM feedback cycles, reviewing process documentation, and coordinating first article inspections. This is especially valuable for companies without an in-house manufacturing engineering function.
- What manufacturing file formats do you provide in an NPI package?
- A standard NPI package includes Gerber files (RS-274X), NC drill files, ODB++ or IPC-2581, pick-and-place files, assembly drawings (PDF), board outline (DXF), BOM (Excel with MPNs and approved alternates), and a fabrication specification with stackup and controlled impedance callouts.
- Can you help us select and qualify a contract manufacturer?
- Yes. We evaluate CMs on process capability (minimum feature size, via technology, surface finishes), certifications (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100, ISO 13485), lead time, location, and NPI track record. We can run a competitive RFQ across multiple CMs and provide a comparative recommendation.
- Do you support volume production ramp and sustaining engineering?
- Yes. We support production ramp with yield monitoring, statistical process control guidance, and ECO management. Sustaining engineering covers component EOL replacements, process changes for new fabrication equipment, and ongoing DFM updates as your CM's capabilities evolve.
Ready to start your project?
Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements and receive a detailed quote.
Contact Us