PCB fabrication

[Peter Jackson]

Hi all, 

can anyone recommend a PBC fabrication company?

I'm looking to build a number of these sensors: https://github.com/rbaron/b-parasite

thanks

Peter

[Maheemal Thilakarathne]

Just bare PCB or assembly as well?

I regularly use JLCPCB and like the service

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[Peter Jackson]

assembly as well. just need a few to test out, then if it can work with a bluetooth mesh, I'd look at about 100 of them

[Mark Robson]

Hi,

If the components are all in the JLCPCB assembly catalogue, JLCPCB will assemble it cheaper than anyone else. It looks like most of the parts are not super tiny.

If the components aren't all in stock (do they have the nrf modules?) then it is difficult and possibly expensive to get JLC to procure them, you're probably better (in my experience) going with someone else who does a more "manual" system. The other companies charge more upfront fixed cost ("Engineering fee" or whatever) than JLC, as they're less automated, but have a higher degree of flexibility, as they will go and buy just the quantity required of the components (Maybe + a small amount of wastage)

My experience has been with JLCPCB, PCBWay and ospcb (cnospcb). PCBWay gave the best feedback and support, but unfortunately seem to have made some mistakes on a couple of my boards (although the rest of the batch seem ok)

Looking at the design, it looks like there is a surface mount battery holder on the back. If you're willing to solder those on yourself, then you'll find it's easier to get the rest assembled as it won't require a 2-sided process.

Mark

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[Peter Jackson]

Most of them are, just missing the bluetooth module. also having issues with 3 parts showing available in the catalogue, but not being detected in bill of materials.

I was planning on doing the battery holder myself. I'll have a look into the other companies you've suggested

Peter

[Gavin]

I think it unlikely that you’ll find an NRF module in their parts list, though do tell me if you do, as I would be interested in using them myself. I think Mark is right on the battery clip for a small batch v simple to solder them on providing you have a powerful enough solder iron - the basic ones on the bench at rLab will do it for you

Gavin

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[Mark Robson]

Looking at the LCSC catalogue, it seems that Bluetooth module part is not available, so perhaps it's discontinued or something. You could of course just throw the BOM at another manufacturer in China and see if they can find it (Shenzhen market, etc).

The other stuff is all passive or generic so should be alright, I suppose.

In a worst-case scenario, you'll have to find an alternative for the Bluetooth module part (there must be others available). The PCB assembly company might suggest an alternative if they're feeling keen, or ask you to find one, I've had both happen.

Mark

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[Peter Jackson]

They have 2 of the modules in stock at the moment. they also have them on amazon for £9 each

[Peter Jackson]

I think I'll hold off for now and come to one of the electronics meet ups

[Gavin]

The module looks hand-solderable

Gavin

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