Making a PCB can be very labor-intensive since it involves design, testing, material procurement, and many other processes. However, there is a solution to this challenge that comes in two forms — Turnkey PCB Assembly and Consignment PCB Assembly.
Both options can help you complete the design and creation of a PCB, but each has its own unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore the main differences between these two approaches.
Turnkey PCB Assembly – Features and Benefits
In turnkey PCB assembly, once the manufacturer is determined, your company will provide the design, specifications, and blueprints to the PCB assembler so they can handle everything from material sourcing and assembly to prototype creation. This is the opposite of consignment manufacturing.
Next, the customer will test the prototype and apply their adjustments and improvements before creating the final version. Keep in mind that the manufacturer will bear the cost and handle the process, while the customer company is barely involved.
Now that we understand the basics of a turnkey PCB assembly contract, here are some of its advantages:
-
Stay Ahead in the PCB Race
PCB manufacturing is like a race, as printed circuit boards are constantly being updated. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, new innovative products quickly enter the market and replace older ones.
Therefore, using a turnkey PCB assembly service or contract ensures that your electronics brand stays ahead in the PCB competition with up-to-date boards. -
Manufacturer Handles Everything
The partner manufacturer takes care of every aspect of your PCB project. This means you don’t need to be involved in any part of the process. From sourcing and storing materials to shipping, all responsibilities lie with your manufacturing partner.
As a result, you can focus on other business-related matters without worrying about the PCB production steps. -
Experienced Professionals Managing Your Project
By choosing a turnkey PCB assembly service, you don’t have to worry about who is handling your project. Your PCB work will likely be managed by certified professionals who fully understand the details of circuit board manufacturing.
With a turnkey contract, you can expect your manufacturing partner to deliver the highest level of service in designing and producing your PCB.
Consignment PCB Assembly – Key Features and Benefits
Now that we’ve covered turnkey PCB assembly, let’s discuss its counterpart: consignment PCB assembly. Unlike turnkey contracts, consignment PCB assembly places all responsibilities on the designer or device manufacturer. Tasks like sourcing materials, negotiating with suppliers, and other PCB-related responsibilities fall on you. For this reason, this approach is often favored by experienced designers and device manufacturers in the electronics field.
It’s important to note that consignment assembly is not entirely a solo task — you won’t be working alone. If you are part of a manufacturing team, your company will manage the project internally, without outsourcing to another manufacturer.
Consignment assembly comes with unique advantages not found in turnkey contracts. Here are a few that set it apart:
-
Complete Control Over the PCB Project
The first unique advantage of consignment assembly is that you maintain full control over the PCB project. You will oversee the internal team handling the PCB concept. If adjustments or improvements are required in your design, you will be the direct point of contact. -
No Third-Party Involvement
Related to having absolute control, the entire process is carried out in-house. You and your team handle the entire operation of creating custom printed circuit boards.
If you’re working with a high-performing, consistent internal team, keeping operations internal can be a significant advantage. -
Earlier Start to Manufacturing
Unlike turnkey assembly, which requires additional steps before production, consignment assembly allows manufacturing to begin as soon as possible. This is especially true if your company’s inventory already has the required materials for the PCB project.
Besides faster manufacturing, you also retain control over any changes applied during and after production.
Key Differences Between Turnkey PCB Assembly and Consignment PCB Assembly
As described above, both turnkey and consignment PCB assembly come with distinct features. The main differences lie in responsibility and control:
-
Turnkey PCB Assembly: The manufacturing partner handles everything — from sourcing materials to final production. The customer has minimal involvement.
-
Consignment PCB Assembly: The customer provides the materials and retains full control over the project, while production is handled in-house or with minimal external support.
Bottom Line
In summary, both turnkey PCB assembly and consignment PCB assembly are solutions to the demanding process of printed circuit board manufacturing. However, the difference lies in control: turnkey assembly transfers control to the manufacturing partner, while consignment assembly keeps the project under your direct control without involving third parties.
Each method has its own advantages:
-
If you want a cost-effective solution that ensures high-quality PCBs while allowing you to focus on other tasks, go with turnkey assembly.
-
On the other hand, if you want to create innovative PCB designs and maintain full responsibility for your project, then consignment assembly is the right choice.