Prepare a clear assembly request: define the build scope, component supply, production files and acceptance checks before comparing price or lead time.
Start with the build you need
An assembly inquiry is most useful when it describes a specific deliverable. A bare board, a populated board and a programmed, functionally tested product are different orders. Write down which one you need and who supplies the information required to produce it. If the product is still changing, identify the decisions that remain open rather than presenting a preliminary package as a production release.
Use the project inquiry form to send the board type, layer count, dimensions, assembly quantity and target timing. Include a short description of the circuit and any unusual handling, component or test requirements. Detailed manufacturing files can then be coordinated during project review.
Choose a component supply arrangement
| Arrangement | Responsibility to resolve |
|---|---|
| Turnkey | Identify the approved manufacturer part numbers and which substitutions require your written approval. |
| Consigned | List the customer-supplied parts, supplied quantities, packaging and responsibility for shortages. |
| Mixed supply | Mark the supply owner for every BOM line so the same component is not purchased twice or omitted. |
Do not treat a purchasing description such as “10 kΩ resistor” as a complete production instruction. The approved part must also match its package, tolerance, rating and other circuit requirements. Where an alternate is acceptable, record it against the original item and identify the person authorized to approve the change.
Prepare one consistent release package
- Fabrication data and a drawing with the board revision and construction requirements.
- An assembly BOM with manufacturer part numbers, reference designators and do-not-populate decisions.
- Placement data and assembly drawings that agree about board side, orientation and polarity.
- Programming files, version identifiers and a test procedure when those operations are included.
Keep all files under one release identifier. A corrected BOM sent after a quotation should be recorded as a change, not silently substituted into the same archive. Ask for the affected price, schedule and production instructions to be reconfirmed before the change is released.
Agree on acceptance and communication
Define what will be checked on the first article and what will be checked on every shipped unit. Visual inspection, electrical testing, programming verification and functional testing answer different questions. Specify the results you need, the pass criteria and how a nonconforming unit will be handled.
For a first build, nominate one contact who can resolve technical questions and one person who approves commercial changes. Request an open-issue list so unresolved choices remain visible. Approve the build only after the released files and agreed exceptions describe the same product.
Before requesting a quote
Check the assembly file guide and assembly project requirements. Capability, availability, pricing and timing need confirmation for the actual design. This planning guide makes no claim about unverified factory ownership, certifications, years of operation or guaranteed production performance.
Move from reading to a build-ready project
Use the fabrication and assembly checklists to prepare drawings, production files and test requirements.
Open the DFM checklist