Many first-time PCB quotation seekers often feel overwhelmed by uncertainty about required documentation, leading to inefficient communication and imprecise requirement transmission. Today, we clarify the essentials: preparing these materials in advance ensures smoother coordination and more accurate quotations.

1. Core Requirement: Gerber Files (Preferred Documentation)

Gerber files serve as the universal design language for PCB manufacturing and are the most critical documents manufacturers require. Much like precise blueprints for construction, they fully define all physical aspects of the PCB, preventing misunderstandings in requirements.

As the industry-standard format, Gerber files precisely specify critical parameters like PCB dimensions, shape, board thickness, conductive traces (copper foil), solder mask areas, silkscreen characters, and drill locations. They serve as the core bridge connecting design software (e.g., Altium Designer, KiCad) to production.

If we handle PCB design, please additionally provide:

Detailed technical specifications of the product (e.g., functional positioning and usage scenarios of the final assembled product);

Core functional and performance requirements for the PCB (e.g., signal transmission rate, high-temperature resistance rating, anti-interference needs);

A complete BOM list of electronic components (including part numbers, specifications, and package parameters).

2. Alternative Approach: Specific Process Requirements (When Design Files Are Unavailable)

If Gerber files are not yet available, we can proceed with quoting based on “specific manufacturing requirements.” Simply provide these key details, and we will reverse-engineer the design and production plan accordingly, such as:

Basic parameters: PCB dimensions, board thickness, layer count (e.g., 2-layer / 4-layer), substrate type (e.g., standard FR-4 or high-frequency substrate);

Process Details: Copper thickness (e.g., 1oz/2oz), surface finish (e.g., solder mask, gold plating, OSP), solder mask color, silkscreen character requirements;

Performance Standards: Compliance with RoHS environmental certification, temperature rating, impedance control requirements, etc.

3. Emergency Solution: Physical Sample (Applicable when no design/process description is available)

If neither Gerber files nor process specifications are available, you may proceed via “physical sample” – simply send us your existing PCB sample. We will perform professional reverse engineering to precisely replicate the sample's dimensions, layer count, process parameters, and electrical structure. Based on the sample characteristics, we will match an identical or optimized production solution to ensure the quotation aligns with your actual requirements.

What if none of the above options are available? We can still assist, though it becomes significantly more complex. As the old saying goes: “Even the most skilled cook cannot make a meal without rice.” Therefore, if you plan to consult us, please prepare thoroughly beforehand to facilitate smoother communication.

Founded in 2009, our company has deep roots in the production of various circuit boards. We are dedicated to laying a solid electronic foundation and providing key support for the development of diverse industries.   Whether you are engaged in electronic manufacturing, smart device R&D, or any other field with circuit board needs, feel free to reach out to us via email at sales06@kbefpc.com. We look forward to addressing your inquiries, customizing solutions, and sincerely invite partners from all sectors to consult and collaborate, exploring new possibilities in the industry together.