Printed circuit board (PCB) assembly is an essential step in electronics manufacturing. It involves soldering and assembling electronic components onto a bare PCB board to create a functional printed circuit assembly. As products like computers, mobile devices, and internet-connected devices explode in popularity, the demand for quality, high-volume PCB assembly is immense. It is anticipated that by 2027, the worldwide market for PCBs will achieve a valuation of approximately $107.3 billion. PCB assembly in China is a top choice for many major global electronics brands looking to outsource their manufacturing needs. But what exactly makes China such an attractive destination for PCB assembly? In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors that make China a top choice for PCB assembly and how to find the right PCB assembly manufacturer.
Advantages of PCB Assembly in China
There are several compelling reasons why more and more companies look to China for their PCB assembly needs:
- Lower Manufacturing Costs:Factory wages and overall manufacturing costs in China are far lower compared to the United States, Europe, and even many other Asian countries. High quality PCB assembly can be done in China for a fraction of the cost of assembling domestically.
- Access to Skilled Workers and Engineers:Decades of electronics manufacturing has created a deep talent pool and expertise in China. There are thousands of skilled PCB assembly technicians and engineers available, drawn by lucrative positions at electronics factories.
- Robust Supply Chains for Components:China’s vast electronics ecosystem has cultivated incredibly efficient supply chains for PCB components like ICs, resistors, capacitors, LEDs, etc. This makes it easy to source all the necessary components for PCB assembly from local distributors.
- Flexible Production Capacities:Chinese PCB assembly factories are equipped to handle production runs of any size. The same factory can handle small prototyping batches as well as scale up to extremely high-volume production.
- Economies of Scale:The sheer enormity of electronics manufacturing centered in China delivers huge economies of scale. From raw PCB fabrication to final assembly, China’s scale drives down costs across the entire supply chain.
Potential Challenges When Outsourcing PCB Assembly in China
Partnering with a PCB assembly manufacturer in China can provide many advantages, but also presents some potential hurdles to manage. Companies should be aware of these key challenges when embarking on a China-based PCB assembly project:
Communication Barriers – There can be language and cultural gaps when working with overseas partners. Finding a manufacturer with strong English fluency and experience collaborating with international customers is crucial.
Protecting Intellectual Property – Safeguarding sensitive design information and IP is imperative. Vet potential partners thoroughly and ensure adequate data security protocols are in place.
Managing Logistics – With considerable geographical distance, shipping and production timelines need coordination. Leverage providers well-versed in streamlined logistics and importing/exporting processes.
Major Hubs for PCB Assembly in China
China has numerous industrial cities and regions primed for PCB assembly, many clustered in the southeastern half of the country near vital shipping ports.
Some of the major hubs include:
- Shenzhen – The world’s undisputed capital of electronics manufacturing with the largest concentration of PCB suppliers and partners. Home of Foxconn, the world’s biggest contract electronics assembler.
- Shanghai – Massive port city with an enormous pool of skilled engineers and technicians. Major presence of multinational electronics companies.
- Wuxi – Strategically located inland city with great infrastructure and burgeoning electronics cluster. Many Taiwanese companies offshoring production from Taiwan to Wuxi.
- Guangzhou – Important manufacturing hub with an emphasis on automotive electronics and medical devices.
- Suzhou – Skilled workforce focused on high-tech and precision electronics manufacturing. Home to many semiconductor and PCBA fabs.
No matter where your target market is, there’s likely to be an ideal PCB assembly location in China nearby with the resources to meet your requirements.
Key Factors When Choosing PCB Assembly in China
You must always consider top quality when producing electronic equipment. Although many people assume this must mean very high prices, reliable PCB assembly China companies can reduce your PCB assembly costs through comprehensive solutions particularly modified to satisfy your needs. Highly efficient manufacturers provide cost-saving solutions to encourage a long term relationship. How then can you identify highly efficient, high-quality PCB assembly companies? Check out the following tips for some pointers:
- Full vertical integration: Low-quality companies will most likely outsource some parts of fabrication like lamination, gluing, and drilling, whereas proper companies have the tools and capacity to complete every step within their facility. Good PCB assembly companies handle all parts of PCB layout, manufacturing, component procurement, programming, testing, and final assembly for you in-house.
- Optimized component costs: Small companies have a hard time getting good prices or special treatment from manufacturers while a large partner can promise optimized component costs.
- Suitable test capabilities: Make sure to select a company that is well fitted for circuit testing so that all issues can be ironed out before the final product is shipped to you.
- Proper MRP or ERP systems: An effective material control system should be in place to track and integrate the movement of all materials to guarantee standard control and traceability.
- Excellent communication: Ensure that the processesof PCB designing, fabrication, and assembly are happening in sync and everyone involved in your project is on the same page through proper communication.
- Good reputation: You can’t go wrong working with a top PCB supplier in China, who hasbuilt a reputation for high quality products and unparalleled service.
Working with MOKO Technology for PCB Assembly Service
MOKO Technology is an experienced PCB manufacturing and assembly company in China with nearly 16 years of expertise. With over 250 employees including 70 R&D engineers, MOKO provides full turn-key services from PCB fabrication to component sourcing, programming, testing, and final assembly. MOKO adheres to strict quality standards, evidenced by their certifications, and quality checks each phase of the PCB assembly process. This attention to detail has made them a top choice among global customers for nearly two decades. By handling the entire manufacturing and assembly process in-house, MOKO offers higher efficiency and time savings compared to working with multiple suppliers. Reach out to us to start your PCB assembly project now!
