PCB Rework: Avoid Costly Redesigns
In electronics manufacturing, a misplaced component, a solder bridge, or an unexpected flaw can bring production to a stop. Every stage of building a printed circuit board carries risk—what looks perfect in design software may behave differently once real materials are involved. Even small errors, like misaligned pads or cold solder joints, can cause failures […]
PCB Design for Manufacturability: 7 Best Practices
An effective design for manufacturability (DFM) process is essential to the on-time delivery of reliable printed circuit boards. When engineers align PCB layout and design rules with real-world production capabilities, teams avoid delays, reduce costs, and improve build consistency. These seven engineering practices help ensure your PCB design moves efficiently from prototype to board assembly. […]
Military PCB Assembly: Design Guide
Making printed circuit boards (PCBs) for military and aerospace use cases is different from creating boards for everyday gadgets. In these high-stakes fields, the boards are responsible for critical systems like avionics, radar, and satellite communications. Precision is therefore key, and each board must be tough enough to withstand demanding conditions. Effective military PCBs perform […]
Production Ramp up of Audio Products
From 10 units to 10s of Thousands of units, Sparkos Labs has enjoyed rapid growth thanks to Tracer’s focus on Design for Manufacturability and Engineering feedback. Company Overview Sparkos Labs, Inc. operates out of Westminster Colorado and specializes in high end audio components, design, and gear. The company’s competitive advantage resides in its ability […]
A CNC Guide for Customers New to CNC Machining
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, a process in which machines follow coded instructions about how to cut and shape raw materials into finished products. Instead of an operator making manual adjustments, the machine follows a precise program to remove material with cutting tools, producing consistent results across every run. This level of control is […]
Domestic PCB Manufacturing: The Benefits & Risks in 2025
Companies are reevaluating where their printed circuit boards are manufactured and shifting their focus to domestic PCB manufacturing. For teams developing aerospace technology, energy systems, or medical devices, relying on overseas suppliers can lead to delays, gaps in communication, and security concerns. Meanwhile, U.S.-based manufacturers are stepping up with faster turnarounds, tighter quality control, and […]
Conformal Coating Services: A Practical Guide
Whether you’re designing electronics for aerospace, medical, or industrial use, protecting your circuit boards from moisture, dust, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations is essential. One key method of safety is through conformal coating—a thin, non-conductive layer that shields sensitive components from environmental and mechanical stress. Applied to circuit boards to extend their operational life and functional […]
PCB Flying Probe Test: What is it and When do I need it
For a circuit board to pass inspection, it must undergo rigorous testing to ensure every electrical connection functions as intended. One of the most versatile tools available for testing printed circuit boards (PCBs) is the PCB flying probe test (FPT). What Is a Flying Probe Test? A flying probe test (FPT) is a method for […]
Electromechanical Assembly: A Practical Guide
Electromechanical assembly joins circuit boards, wiring, and mechanical hardware into one reliable system. It’s the quiet work that keeps satellites on orbit, robots on track, and production lines on time. When prototype runs drag on and engineers spend hours chasing preventable faults, deadlines slip and costs climb. Add unclear build specs or last‑minute surprises, and […]
PCB Box Build Assembly Services: A Complete Guide
Building a printed circuit board (PCB) is just the start. The real challenge is turning it into a fully integrated, high-quality system using PCB box build assembly services. Building a printed circuit board (PCB) is just the start. The real challenge is turning it into a fully integrated, high-quality system. Projects often stall or go […]