Jan 23, 2008 When you think technology in electronic production, like many, you probably think of China. For several decades now, it has been safe to assume that China was the epicenter for electronic manufacturing. That assumption may soon change as the need for higher quality and more efficient automation brings the electronic industry back to the United States.
PCB Solutions Inc. is a Layton, Utah based contract manufacturer that is reestablishing American-made quality and efficiency in the printed circuit board industry. From televisions, computers, microwaves, radios, to mobile phones and more, PCB Solutions is quickly becoming the innovator in printed circuit board technology.
PCB Solutions specializes in printed circuit board assembly. The electronic boards they assemble are the brains of gadgets you see and use everyday. Chances are you have probably seen a printed circuit board yourself. They are thin, green, and resemble a large microchip. Printed circuit boards tell your electronic gadgets how to work, move, operate, change the channel, receive a phone call, etc.
Though this technology has been around for years, it has gradually moved out of the United States. Common perception was that printed circuit boards could be assembled cheaper overseas. As surface mount assembly and other advanced technologies were introduced, many US companies began outsourcing their PCB assembly needs to China with the hopes that cheap labor would reduce the cost of their products. Many of these companies failed to consider costly problems that can occur when outsourcing overseas. Counterfeiting, logistics, delayed prototypes, and the lack of flexibility to make last minute modifications to PCBs, are just a few of the problems typically encountered when outsourcing. In addition, the expenses related to overseas freight and lengthy shipping times can be very costly.
Furthermore, the competitive advantage of many electronic manufacturers is often compromised when dealing with far-away assembly facilities. Language barriers and differences in professional courtesies often provide a gap where confidentiality can be exposed. Steve Niblack, Vice President of Operations for PCB Solutions addresses this by saying, "We recognize the importance of confidentiality among our clients. Confidentiality is mutually beneficial as it maintains our reputation and credibility while protecting our customer's proprietary interests. It reflects our true professional relationship."
PCB Solutions takes away many of the common headaches related to outsourcing PCB assembly overseas. Logistics are never a problem and customers know where and at what stage their product is at all times.
Joe Otterstrom, Vice President of Manufacturing, credits his staff and their advanced, in-house assembly technology. "The key ingredient that separates us from our competition is our focus on the use of the latest in PCB assembly technology. As production demands increase, the competition is forced to spend money to hire more staff. We take a different approach by adding new equipment. This allows our staff to stay focused, without the interruption of transitioning employees. The added equipment ensures that we are able to meet demand increases in a more cost-effective manner for us in the long run. That allows us to pass significant savings on to our customers."
PCB Solutions offers the latest in Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Through-Hole Assembly. Joe comments, "What makes us successful is that we continually strive to provide the best quality printed circuit board assembly and box-build services available. We are committed to exceeding the needs of our customers and the standards of our industry. Our customers deserve no less."
State-of-the-art equipment, flexibility, experienced labor, and a commitment to excellence are just a few reasons why PCB Solutions is bringing the work back to the good old USA.
