FAQs
What do you need to quote and build my product?
In general, the more data, the better. Bills of material in Excel format, Gerbers, drawings, approved manufacturers for components, test requirements, desired solder chemistry (leaded or lead-free, no-clean or water soluble), and lot sizes you’d like us to quote for volume breaks (both EAU and Build Quantities). Click here for more information.
Do you build on a Turnkey basis and/or with Consignment of materials?
We build both Turnkey and Consignment although most of our business is Turnkey. All things being equal, it usually works better if we do your build turnkey – you can take advantage of volume pricing leverage we have, there are fewer transactions, and typically a more smooth process for both parties. We do recognize that there are occasions where a customer already has material procured, and we can accommodate that through a consigned build or by purchasing your material for the initial builds.
In what formats do you accept parts?
We prefer the parts come in reels, cut tape, trays or tubes. If the parts come loosely in bags with the intention to be placed with our automated pick and place equipment, we will be required to have them placed into tape and reel for an additional fee.
What is your standard leadtime?
For a product build that includes printed circuit assemblies (PCAs), we need material leadtime plus 1-2 weeks depending on the complexity of the product.
What types of solder chemistries do you offer?
We offer 4 standard chemistries. Leaded water soluble, leaded no-clean, lead-free water soluble, lead free no-clean. We can accommodate unique chemistries as needed.
What kinds of components can you place?
We place virtually all surface mount devices typically encountered in the industry. Surface mount packages down to 0201, fine pitch components down to .016 (.4 mm), and bumped parts such as BGAs down to .025 (.65 mm).
Do you support through hole boards?
Yes … we have radial, axial and DIP automatic component insertion equipment as well as slide lines for unique through hole components that require hand insertion. We support through hole products in small and larger volume quantities.
What types of conformal coating do you use?
We regularly run acrylic and silicone conformal coating formulations. Our standard coatings are Humiseal 1B73EPA and Konform SR.
Who will be assigned to my project?
Each customer at Western Electronics is assigned a Program Manager who is the main customer contact for the program, a Product Manager who leads all procurement activities for the program, and a Process Engineer who is responsible for all technical aspects.
Can you help me transition to RoHS for my product?
Absolutely! From a quick evaluation to a comprehensive conversion program, our engineers and our outside partners can analyze your bill of material and guide you through the compliance process.
Do you provide DFM and DFT Services?
Yes, as part of our normal quote process we provide DFM and DFT overview, and we can provide a much more comprehensive DFM on a per fee basis through an automated software tool.
What’s the best way to test my boards?
Automated testing is the industry standard for testing your assembled boards. We offer in-house In-circuit testing (ICT) and flying probe testing to thoroughly exercise your PCAs. ICT is typically a better fit for boards where the design is relatively stable and volumes are higher as there is a tooling investment, while flying probe is an excellent solution while PCAs are at low volume and are still undergoing design change. We can also functionally test your boards using a fixture you provide or commission us to design.
What happens to the excess materials after my PO is completed?
For customers with ongoing demand for a product, we typically execute a Master Service Agreement (MSA) or a blanket PO to cover the liability for excess material. With either of those solutions in place, we can warehouse the excess and utilize it on future runs. For products where we build a single lot or job, the excess material can be covered by a PO and either delivered to the customer or disposed of if there is no projected near term demand.
How do you handle Shipping and Handling?
Our standard shipping is with FedEx for all small packages and JJ Boyle for anything over 150 lbs and international. If you have a shipping account already established, please provide that information upon order confirmation and the shipment charges will be directly billed to you.