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What is Electronic Manufacturing Service?
Electronic manufacturing services are also called electronic EMS or electronic contract manufacturing. If the company announces it provides an electronics manufacturing service, it can provide services for electronics design, manufacturing, testing, distribution, storage, logistics, return/repair, etc.
Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) providers are those companies that provide both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end-users with electronic products and services. These include PCB and electronics design, manufacturing, testing, supply chain management, and repair and maintenance.
Viasion is a trusted EMS provider in China. We focus on small to medium-volume PCB and electronics device manufacturing with more than 16 years of experience. Our factory is UL-listed and ISO9001 certified.
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Our electronic manufacturing capabilities:
- PCB Fabrication
- PCB assembly
- Consigned PCB Assembly
- Turnkey PCB Assembly
- PCB Parts Sourcing
- Box Build Assembly
- IC Programming
- Functional Testing
- Wire bonding
- Cable/wire harness assembly
- Conformal coating
- Repair/Rework services
- Reverse engineering services
- Labeling & Packaging
- Labeling & Packaging
- Customized Logistics Per Customer
The Process of Electronic Manufacturing Services-12 Steps
1. DFM/DFA
PCB file checking
- PCB file checking is an essential step in the PCB manufacturing process. It involves verifying that all elements of a PCB design have been appropriately created and placed to ensure that it meets the customer's requirements.
- PCB file checking also ensures that errors or mistakes are identified before production begins, thus avoiding costly delays or rework. As a result, manufacturers can guarantee quality control throughout their production process through thorough PCB file checking.
BOM list check
- BOM list check is an essential step in the electronic manufacturing process. It ensures that all of the components used in a product are present, accounted for, and fit for purpose. BOM list checks also help identify discrepancies between what has been ordered and delivered to the production line.
- By thoroughly checking BOM lists before assembly begins, manufacturers can ensure that their products are made with quality components and materials. Without a BOM list check, it's impossible to manufacture higher-quality finished goods with fewer defects or problems down the road.
2. PCB Fabrication & Parts sourcing
PCB Fabrication
- PCB fabrication is the process of creating printed circuit boards (PCBs). PCBs can be made with different materials and techniques, depending on the application they will be used for.
- The fabrication begins by designing a PCB layout that meets the device's specifications. Once this design is complete, it must be manufactured to create an actual board.
- The following steps involve etching copper onto a substrate such as a fibreglass or ceramic, drilling holes for components and connections, and then soldering components into the board.
- After these steps are completed, PCB testing must occur to ensure functionality before it can be sent off for use in its intended device.
- PCB fabrication is a complex but necessary process that must be done precisely to ensure the PCB works as expected.
Electronics Parts sourcing
- Electronics parts sourcing is locating and supplying electronic components, such as semiconductors, resistors and capacitors, for use in electronic devices.
- It involves researching suppliers that offer quality products at competitive prices, negotiating pricing and delivery terms, and ensuring components meet safety regulations.
- As electronics become increasingly complex, electronics parts sourcing has become essential to the engineering process.
- By outsourcing this task to experts who understand the complexities of electronics parts sourcing, businesses can ensure they are getting reliable supplies at reasonable costs. Additionally, electronics parts sourcing professionals can provide valuable insight into the latest trends in electronics components and help ensure that any new electronics designs comply with relevant safety regulations.
- Ultimately, electronics parts sourcing allows businesses access to the components they need when they need them at a price that works for their budget.
3. PCB Assembly
SMT assembly, or Surface Mount Technology assembly, is an electronic manufacturing process that involves placing components onto a printed circuit board (PCB). SMT is one of the most widely used methods in modern electronics production thanks to its low cost and high efficiency. SMT assembly requires specialized tools and processes for mounting components on both sides of the PCB at once. This method offers excellent flexibility regarding component placement and improved electrical performance over traditional through-hole technology. SMT also allows for faster turnaround times compared to other electronic assemblies, given its automated nature and advanced automation solutions such as pick-and-place machines. SMT assembly is especially suited for high-volume production, which explains why it is highly sought-after for large-scale manufacturing.
PTH assembly, or Plated Through Hole assembly, is a method of mounting electronic components onto printed circuit boards. PTH assemblies typically comprise pins inserted into the board’s holes and then soldered in place. PTH assemblies provide robust mechanical connections for electrical components, making them ideal for high-reliability applications such as automotive electronics or medical devices. PTH assemblies can also create complex circuits with multiple layers of copper traces and pads on both sides of the board. With proper design and quality assurance procedures, PTH assemblies offer reliable performance over a long service life while providing cost savings due to their relatively low material costs compared to other soldering techniques.
Manual PCB assembly assembles printed circuit boards (PCBs) by placing and soldering components onto a board. This manual process is often used when small-scale production runs are needed or for prototyping. Manual PCB assembly requires a manual inspection to ensure all parts are correctly placed and soldered and to test the board’s functionality after assembly. With manual PCB assembly, it is vital to have an experienced technician working with high-quality tools to produce reliable results.
4. IC programming
- IC programming is an essential part of electronic manufacturing, playing a crucial role in developing and producing devices such as smartphones, computers, and other consumer electronics.
- IC programming involves writing code that tells integrated circuits (ICs) how to behave when installed in a device. This code can include instructions on how the IC should interact with other components within the system and the tasks it should perform.
- IC programming is also used for testing during design verification and debugging, ensuring that ICs are functioning correctly before being shipped out to customers.
- With its importance across many industries, IC programming has become an invaluable skill set for those looking to break into or advance their careers in electronic manufacturing company.
5. PCB Testing & Inspections
AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) is a vital part of the electronic manufacturing process. AOI inspection is a non-destructive testing method to detect and identify printed circuit board (PCB) defects. It involves using optical technology such as cameras, lasers, or X-rays to scan each component on a PCB for abnormalities. In addition, AOI systems can be programmed to look for specific types of defects, including missing components, incorrect polarity, shorts between pins, misalignments between layers, and other issues that could cause product failure. Undoubtedly, AOI inspection provides manufacturers an efficient way to quickly and accurately identify potential problems before products are sent out for final assembly or packaging.
Visual inspection is a crucial process in electronic manufacturing company, as it helps to ensure that the electronic components being produced meet high standards of quality. Visual inspection involves examining electronic components and assemblies closely for any potential defects or inconsistencies affecting their performance or reliability. This type of inspection requires careful observation, attention to detail, and an understanding of the technology involved to identify any irregularities quickly. By using visual inspection methods, manufacturers can detect issues before they become more serious problems down the line.
In-circuit test (ICT) is electronic manufacturing testing that checks for electronic components and circuits’ correct functionality and physical integrity. It is an important quality assurance tool in electronic product development, production, and repair. ICT involves connecting a specialized test system to the electronic circuit board under test and then running tests to detect errors or defects in the parts or their connections on the board. This process helps manufacturers ensure that their products meet design specifications before they are released into the market.
6. Electro-mechanical assembly
Electro-mechanical assembly is a crucial part of electronic manufacturing, given that it combines electronic and mechanical components to create more complex systems. By combining electrical circuits with physical components such as motors, actuators, sensors and other devices, electro-mechanical assemblies can produce highly efficient products used in various industries. However, this process requires a combination of engineering knowledge and skilful craftsmanship to ensure the accuracy of each electronic product. With advances in technology and automation, the electro-mechanical assembly has become increasingly popular for its ability to reduce production time while increasing quality control.
7. Functional Test
A functional test is essential to EMS manufacturing, ensuring the electronic product meets the required specifications and functions correctly. The functional test involves testing each device component to ensure they work perfectly together. That includes testing for compatibility, performance, reliability and safety features. By performing Functional Tests on electronic products during production, manufacturers can save time and money by avoiding costly defects or recalls later.
8. Burn-in Test
Burn-in Test is an EMS manufacturing process used to test the reliability of electronic components. It involves running a device or system under normal operating conditions for a while, usually with simulated environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. That allows for identifying and correcting any potential defects or problems that may arise during prolonged use before the final product is released. By doing so, the burn-in test helps ensure that electronic products function reliably over their expected lifetime.
9. Wire bonding
Wire bonding is a critical process in EMS manufacturing, allowing for the secure connection of electronic components. That involves joining two pieces with an electrical wire from gold or aluminium. Wire bonding can join multiple electronic components, ensuring they are securely connected and functioning correctly. The most common type of wire bond is a ball bond, where the wire is shaped into a small sphere at each end which makes contact with both electronic components being joined. There are also other types of bonds, such as wedge or stitch bonds, which may be used depending on the project's needs. Wire bonding provides a reliable connection between electronic components while ensuring they remain electrically isolated and operate without interference.
10. Conformal Coating
11. Final Quality Control(FQA)
Final Quality Control (FQA) is an essential step in EMS electronics. It involves inspecting and testing electronic components, assemblies and products to ensure they meet pre-defined quality standards. FQA helps identify potential defects or issues that could affect product performance before reaching the end user. By implementing rigorous FQA procedures, electronic manufacturers can guarantee high levels of quality assurance throughout their production process and reduce costly recalls due to faulty parts or products.
12. Custom Packaging
Custom packaging in EMS electronics is the process of designing and fabricating a unique package that meets the needs of a specific electronic product. This type of packaging is essential for protecting electronic components from environmental hazards such as dust, moisture, vibration, shock, and temperature extremes. Custom packaging also helps reduce costs by providing an efficient way to store and transport electronic products safely. Additionally, custom packaging can help improve product performance and reliability by reducing the risk of damage during handling or shipping. Undoubtedly, manufacturers can ensure their electronic products are correctly packaged while saving time and money on production costs by utilizing custom design techniques.
Why Do We Need an Electronic Manufacturing Service ( EMS) Provider?
Initially, all the EMS electronics is operated by in-house assembly. But it would be easy to face a problem that when the company’s electronic products demand suddenly boom in the market, it is hard for a company to find enough workforce to finish the complete production mission to meet the market need. Therefore, in the 1970s, some companies were established, primarily providing electronic product manufacturing services for small companies with electronic product manufacturing demand but lacking plant or human resources.
EMS enterprises can be vast companies, so they can compete with the most prominent companies worldwide to win those famous brands’ manufacturing orders, such as Cisco, Microsft, iPhone etc. But most EMS companies are smaller companies like Viasion, and we produce small to medium-volume electronic devices for our customers.
- In the 1990s, SMT technology developed rapidly. The high efficiency and lower production cost of SMT technology make the rapid assembly of electronic products possible. As a result, OEM starts to become outsource PCB assembly manufacturing.
- Usually, those companies have their own brand or sales channel but are weak in production ability. So they would find an electronics manufacturing service company to produce electronic products for them.
- Some companies design and sell non-consumer and complex products when they outsource their production. There may be better options than the OEM. EMS manufacturers may fit them best.
How to Select An Electronic Manufacturing Service Provider?
According to Viasion’s experience, regarding selecting an electronic manufacturing service provider, we should consider the following aspects to get the best electronics manufacturing companies. In this article, we’ll talk about what an OEM is and how it can help you when you need help with your product range or promote your services online. We’ll also talk about what kinds of ODMs can help you with your business.
- Researching the electronics assembly services offered by different providers and comparing their capabilities is vital. That may include evaluating the technologies they use, their experience and specialized knowledge, and their reputation in the industry.
- An excellent electronic manufacturing service provider should demonstrate a commitment to quality, have an established customer service program, and provide timely product delivery.
- Don't forget to assess the company’s ability to meet your production needs by considering its capacity for customizing electronic components and parts and its access to reliable resources.
- Additionally, it is essential that you look for a provider who understands the specific requirements of your electronic products and that offers warranties for their work.
- Finally, be sure to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the electronics assembly services provided by each provider.
- Undoubtedly, you can make an informed decision when selecting an electronics assembly services provider by carefully considering all these factors, to make sure your electronic contract manufacturing services can be done properly.
What Are the Differences between CM and EMS?
- CM (Contract Manufacturer) is a company that specializes in providing manufacturing services on a contractual basis, typically for larger-scale production needs.
- These companies often offer the latest technology and equipment to produce high-quality products efficiently. As a result, CMs (Contract Manufacturers) can quickly scale up or down their production capabilities depending on customer demand.
- EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Service) is a company that specializes in providing services for the manufacturing of electronic components and products. EMS electronic manufacturing services typically have specialized processes and skill sets to produce items such as printed circuit boards, electronics assemblies, and electromechanical systems.
- These companies often focus more on smaller-scale production needs and may not always provide the latest technology or equipment. EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) are also not as capable of quickly scaling up or down their production capabilities depending on customer demand.
- Ultimately, CM (Contract Manufacturer)s and EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Service)s both provide manufacturing services; however, they each have different advantages and disadvantages that should be considered depending on the specific customer needs.
What are the Differences between EMS and OEM?
- Outsourcing manufacturing is not only good for small companies but also great for large companies. After outsourcing their manufacturing, they can focus on product research and marketing development.
- Despite being regarded as the world's most valuable company in 2019, Apple still outsources its manufacturing. That is despite their product design capabilities being as good as they get.
- Look at the new iPhone 12 and think about the A14 chip, which is said to be the first mobile processor to feature an Arm-based design. Apple is still focused on creating the best possible products.
- Because they realized that manufacturing wasn't what they were best at, they decided not to build their products. Instead, they work with others to improve the process and make their products more cost-effective.
What are the Differences between OEM and ODM?
What is the meaning of OEM?
Advantages of an OEM Manufacturing Service
If you have an idea for a product but don't have the time to manufacture it, you should consider using an OEM manufacturing service. These firms have the necessary expertise to produce products for major brands and can manufacture components or devices at much lower prices than traditional manufacturers. They can also meet all the requirements and conditions of delivery and management.
Here are some reasons why an OEM might be a better option.
Nowadays, a brand computer may purchase a computer from one company, print their brand, and sell to the market. While most OEMs sell business-to-business (B2B) products, a VAR(value-added reseller) is a third party that customizes and sells a product to a customer. An OEM generally sells on a business-to-business model, while a VAR sells directly to consumers.
Regarding the design of products, those familiar with the electronic industry share their thought, "ODMs carry out the design by themselves while a brand company is responsible for the design of OEM products, right?" Yes, you got the point. As a result, OEM products are more personalized and feature a broader range of customization. However, OEM manufacturing is resource-intensive. Designers invest millions of dollars in research and development, and they would use the law to protect their design property.
The cost of OEM manufacturing is a significant part of the overall process. Therefore, an OEM may be better for complex products or low volume. An EMS, on the other hand, may be better suited to low-volume, specialized, or niche products. As an OEM, you must find the right EMS provider that fits your product range and business model.
What is ODM?
ODM manufacturing is a type of outsourced manufacturing
Outsourced manufacturing services are available for a variety of purposes. Whether creating a new product or upgrading an existing one, ODMs can help. ODMs are often more efficient than traditional manufacturers and have more control over their products’ design and production processes. In addition, they can upgrade their efficiency through automation and specially designed manufacturing software. You may wonder, “Are ODMs also able to sell products under their own brand?” They can do that in many cases. As a result, this option is ideal for those looking to expand their revenue quickly.
OEM manufacturers build goods based on the specifications and designs of their clients. In contrast, ODMs do not own intellectual property or product designs. Therefore, they offer economies of scale, which means lower unit costs when the same design is built in a high volume. However, ODMs may not have the flexibility to incorporate their clients’ ideas, which can limit their customization options. If this is the case, an OEM may be your best choice.
It's a private-label product
It’s a fast track to market
- OEM manufacturing is a fast track to market, but it's not without risks. If the OEM designer can't make out the product popular in the market, they may not be rewarded. Research and development costs are high, and once an idea is released, it is vulnerable to infringement of intellectual property (IP) rights.
- Corporate espionage is common at large corporations, so protecting your idea from potential theft is vital. Some may wonder, "what about ODM manufacturing? Do ODMs provide cheaper products without lots of research and development costs?" They can do that since ODM manufacturing is based on your design.
- An ODM manufacturer should also be equipped to handle all aspects of pre-shipment quality control and logistics/customs clearance. These services may be required for a product but will be less time-consuming than manufacturing.
- ODMs also benefit from expertise in various industries, so their experience is invaluable. A major advantage of ODM manufacturing is the speed at which it can take your idea from concept to product.
It’s cost-competitive
- ODM manufacturing is a cost-competitive method for producing your brand products. This method lets you choose the design of your product, the equipment and the processes.
- You can upgrade your facility with automation and specially designed-manufacturing software. ODM manufacturing firms can sell your brand's products as white labels.
- This method of product manufacturing can significantly expand your revenue. It also helps you save time. ODMs can take care of technical and financial aspects so that you can concentrate on marketing and branding.
- The advantages of ODM manufacturing are many. The process of manufacturing products is less expensive, which reduces transaction costs. ODMs can meet a specific demand in the global consumer market.
- For example, mobile phones all work on the same principle, but their design differs based on their components. Moreover, a new competitor can use the same design and change it. They can rebrand it under their brand name, crediting the original design.
Advantages and disadvantages of working with an ODM
- ODM services can help businesses save time, money, and effort by allowing them to outsource their product's design, research, development, and manufacturing process.
- ODM services can also provide access to advanced technologies and international supply chains, enabling businesses to quickly develop and manufacture quality products.
- ODM services also allow businesses to benefit from ODM's expertise in product design and manufacturing, eliminating companies needing to hire dedicated staff in these areas.
- ODM services can help businesses create innovative products at competitive prices while allowing them to focus on their core business.
Viasion’s EMS Solution
A good partner should help each other to make progress together. For example, viasion is delicate to help our customers make better PCB and PCBA and electronics manufacturing services, making our products performs better than their competitors. Besides, we use superior production technology to reduce costs for our customers.
Through our experienced team, we can help you improve the efficiency of your project by implementing state-of-the-art equipment. This equipment will help us to cut costs and improve the quality of your EMS electronics, we hope to be your most trusted EMS manufacturing company.
High Quality
At Viasion, we are passionate about quality. We are committed to building high-quality electronics manufacturing and have the necessary training and certifications to back it up. It ensures our customers can rely on us to find and supply them with the best possible quality.
Low cost
Viasion controls electronics manufacturing production strictly and uses mature technology in mass production, increasing production efficiency and decreasing production costs.
You can also us for your electronics manufacturing demands. With a wide range of capabilities, Viasion is one of the best electronic manufacturing services companies in China.
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Viasion Technology is your trusted partner & one-stop shop for PCB fabrication, components sourcing, PCB assembly and electronic manufacturing. With more than 16 years of experience, we have been supplying high-quality PCBs with competitive pricing for 1000+ customers worldwide. Our company is ISO9001:2015 Certified & UL Listed, and all our products are 100% E-tested and inspected by AOI & X-RAY to meet the highest industry standards. So please get an instant quote from our sales team now, and we will take care of the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both terms are pretty similar; all refer to the fabrication of PCBs and the assembly of electronics. But electronics manufacturing services are more widely used.
Electronics manufacturing processes include the following: printed circuit board fabrication, electronics components outsourcing, PCB assembly, box build assembly, testing and inspections, etc. Generally speaking, electronics manufacturing services mean the customer only supplies relative files, and electronic contract manufacturing companies supply fully functional electronic devices.
Electronics manufacturing processes include the following: printed circuit board fabrication, electronics components outsourcing, PCB assembly, box build assembly, testing and inspections, etc. Generally speaking, electronics manufacturing services mean the customer only supplies relative files, and electronic contract manufacturing companies supply fully functional electronic devices.
EMS contract manufacturing means contract production of electronics products. But OEM contract manufacturing also involves the design and development stage, except electronics manufacturing.
Electronics manufacturing industry is very important for any electronics products. It normally includes circuit board production, EMS PCB or PCB assembly, box build assembly, final testing and inspection, etc.
EMS manufacturing means electronics manufacturing, only involved in production. But ODM means Original Design Manufacturer. So besides the electronic manufacturing aspect, the development of electronic products is also a significant part.
Viasion is one of the best contract electronics manufacturers in China. Our electronics manufacturing services include PCB bare board fabrication, circuit board assembly, turnkey box build assembly, final testing and inspection, labelling and packaging as customers’ requirements.