Due to its low weight, compact size, high density, and great performance, PCB (Surface Mount Technology) assembly have been used in the fabrication of electronics for many applications. It is thus crucial for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to choose a trustworthy and affordable PCB assembly company to serve as their CM (Contract Manufacturer).
For the sole purpose of cutting costs, OEMs made a wise decision to outsource PCB assembly in China. Despite its benefits, it has historically seemed forced, particularly when assembly costs are skyrocketing in the land of OEMs. However, working with a Chinese PCB assembly manufacturer is now the best option for OEMs from five perspectives, which will be covered in this paper.
Reason #1: Affordable
Although there are already a variety of reasons why OEMs should trust a Chinese PCB assembly firm, pricing is still the main motivator. However, the cheap cost, in this case, is never attained at the expense of quality. The idea that Chinese manufacturing is inherently cheap has persisted for a long time. But it is rational, not natural.
First off, China has had a clear edge in manufacturing for a very long time, and as a direct consequence, it is simple and affordable to get the production equipment needed for PCB assembly. As a consequence, China has substantially cheaper manufacturing line costs than other places.
Second, equipment made in China is increasingly recognized for its accuracy, expertise, and dependability. Many Chinese machines that have been extensively used in a variety of sectors, from transportation to oil exploration, are shown in the documentary The Pillars of a Great Power. Many of the devices used for PCB assembly up to this point, including solder paste printers, chip mounters, reflow soldering ovens, and AOI equipment, have been branded in China. As a result, China has progressively surpassed Japan to become the world's top supplier of high-efficiency and high-accuracy machinery.
Third, with the second-largest population in the world, China has a sizable workforce that supports the electronics industry. Many young people in China have changed their identities to become employees as a result of the country's rising urbanization, which to some part lowers the cost of manufacturing in China.
In a nutshell, cost-effectiveness is the main factor in the choice of China's PCB assembly manufacturer as CM.
Reason #2: Peaceful Setting
One of the few nations in the world with the most tranquil and stable political climate in China. It is well known that the majority of contemporary manufacturing is carried out in emerging nations, with China maintaining a political climate that is far from stable since its founding. Politics has a significant impact on the economy.
Consistent production practices, comparatively steady workforce involvement, and controlled lead times all result from a tranquil workplace. PCB assembly is highly complicated and necessitates sensitive manufacturing processes. As a result, it requires expert operation from PCB specialists who have undergone rigorous and consistent training. In China, it is continuously possible due to the country's stable political climate.
Additionally, the Chinese government has been actively participating in global commerce and affairs, such as one belt, and one road, which increases convenience in many areas, let alone for the production of electronics. To increase trade prospects between China and other nations, more constructive measures have been decided upon. China has been a significant contributor to global electronics and now holds the top spot among Asian nations for PCB assembly services. The reward heavily depends on a calm and steady setting.
#3: Rich personnel and experience are the reason
China has a vast population, which results in a sizable workforce for the electronics manufacturing industry, as was previously shown. With such a large population base, there are undoubtedly many people who are skilled in PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly, PCB, and THT (Through-Hole Technology). They specialize in configuring equipment parameters including chip mounting speed, reflow/wave soldering temperature, scraper angle for printing solder paste, and others. Additionally, they should have thorough training or practical experience, or an adequate understanding of PCB assembly concepts and equipment logic. More ideally, they should be able to anticipate any flaws that would arise throughout the soldering process and devise workable solutions to counteract them.
Chinese PCB assemblers have a lot of PCB assembly expertise because of the country's vast population, which gives them more opportunities to engage in PCB assembly production. The assemblers can achieve improved production efficiency, higher manufacturing capabilities, and shorter lead times because of their extensive expertise in PCB assembly. As a result of its skilled workforce and manufacturing expertise, China is a viable option for outsourcing PCB assembly services.
Reason #4: Guarantee of High Quality
It is no longer the same in China. Perhaps quality was once largely taken for granted, but that is no longer the case. China has steadily evolved from a manufacturing power to an intelligent power, and as a result, the fabrication of PCB assemblies there is also progressing toward intelligence. Additionally, since joining the WTO (World Trade Organization), China has worked hard to advance PCB assembly to an international standard to diversify its industry. The following two recommendations should be kept in mind while working with a Chinese PCB assembler:
Electronics Manufacturer test and inspection solutions should be carefully examined, on one hand. No matter how highly a CM talks of itself, the only method to determine the PCB assembler's degree of quality is to look at its inspection procedures. When it comes to PCB assembly services, tests and inspection play a significant role in the quality control of built PCBs. AOI, X-ray inspection, ICT (In-Circuit Test), Flying probe test, and function test are some of the frequently utilized test and inspection techniques. If the PCB assembler can carry out such tests and inspections and the constructed PCBs pass them, it further proves the reliability of their skills.
Prototyping, on the other hand, is a proactive technique to assess a PCB assembler's level of quality. PCB and PCBA prototypes represent CM's capabilities to manufacture electronics and expectations for a long-term partnership. It serves as a clear demonstration of the quality of their PCB goods. Standard PCB assemblies will only make you happy as long as prototypes are approved.
Reason #5: Superior Performance
Time to market is crucial for OEMs when it comes to the creation of electrical devices. The quicker things hit the market, the quicker returns may be expected. Great efficiency hence yields a high return. If you outsource your PCB assembly work to China, you'll come out on top in the efficiency stakes.
The following qualities of China's PCB assemblers allow them to operate at high-efficiency levels:
If projects are urgent, Chinese PCB assemblers first set up accelerated service. It must be admitted that Chinese employees are so diligent that they like working extra hours. Higher efficiency may be attained as a consequence.
Second, China has the most extensive and flexible express network, which significantly reduces the amount of time it takes to transport goods.
According to the illustration above, China has the most tranquil atmosphere, which also boosts the productivity of PCB assembly production.