What are Quick Turn PCB Quotes?

Quick turn PCB quotes refer to the rapid quoting process offered by PCB manufacturers for fast turnaround on pricing and production. The goal is to provide customers with prompt quotes, often within 24 hours or less, so they can move forward with their PCB orders quickly.

Quick turn quotes are ideal for projects with tight deadlines or when you need to get a prototype manufactured fast. Many PCB manufacturers offer online quote tools that allow you to input your PCB specifications and receive an instant quote.

Benefits of Quick Turn PCB Quotes

There are several key benefits to using quick turn PCB quotes for your projects:

1. Fast Turnaround: Quick turn quotes allow you to get pricing quickly so you can make decisions and place orders faster.

2. Competitive Pricing: Many PCB manufacturers offer competitive pricing for quick turn orders to win your business.

3. Streamlined Process: Online quote tools make it easy to input your PCB specs and receive a quote without a lengthy back-and-forth process.

4. Prototype Friendly: Quick turn quotes are well-suited for prototyping when you need boards manufactured fast for testing.

Factors That Impact PCB Quotes

When requesting a quick turn PCB quote, there are several factors that will impact pricing and lead times. Understanding these variables can help you optimize your design and get the best possible quote.

Board Specifications

The specifications of your PCB design will have a significant impact on pricing. Key factors include:

• Board Size: Larger boards generally cost more to manufacture than smaller ones.
• Layer Count: More layers increase complexity and cost.
• Material: The base material, such as FR-4, impacts price.
• Thickness: Thicker boards are more expensive.
• Copper Weight: Higher copper weights increase cost.

Here is a table showing the impact of layer count on pricing:

Layer Count	Relative Cost
1	$
2	$$
4	$$$
6	$$$$
8+	$$$$$

Quantity

The number of boards you order will also affect pricing due to economies of scale. Higher quantities often result in lower per-unit costs. However, for quick turn quotes, there may be limits on the maximum quantity.

Typical price breaks based on quantity:

Quantity	Price per Board
1-10	$$$$$
11-50	$$$$
51-100	$$$
101-250	$$
251+	$

Turnaround Time

The turnaround time you require will impact both pricing and the availability of quick turn service. Faster turnarounds generally come with a price premium.

Common quick turn lead time options:

• 24 hours
• 48 hours
• 3-5 days
• 5-7 days

Special Requirements

If your PCB has any special requirements, this can affect pricing and lead times. Examples include:

• Impedance Control: Tight impedance tolerances require special manufacturing processes.
• Controlled Dielectric: Specialty materials for controlled dielectric constant.
• Blind/Buried Vias: Increase cost and complexity.
• High Aspect Ratio: Smaller vias relative to thickness are more difficult.
• Fine Pitch: Tight pitch components are more expensive.

How to Get a Quick Turn PCB Quote

Now that you understand the factors involved in quick turn PCB quotes, here’s how to actually get one:

1. Gather Your Design Files: You’ll need to provide design files, typically Gerber files and drill files. Make sure these are complete and accurate.

2. Find a Reputable Manufacturer: Look for PCB manufacturers that specialize in quick turns and have good reviews.

3. Use an Online Quote Tool: Many manufacturers offer instant online quotes. Upload your design files and specify your requirements.

4. Review and Optimize: Look for ways to optimize your design to reduce cost, such as reducing layer count or opting for a smaller size.

5. Submit Your Order: Once you’re happy with the quote, submit your order and provide any additional required information.

Comparing PCB Quotes

When you receive quick turn quotes from multiple manufacturers, it’s important to compare them carefully. Look at more than just price. Consider factors like:

• Reputation: Does the manufacturer have a track record of quality and reliability?
• Capabilities: Can they handle any special requirements for your design?
• Lead Time: How quickly can they manufacture and ship your boards?
• Communication: Do they communicate clearly and respond promptly to questions?
• Additional Services: Do they offer services like assembly or design review that could streamline your project?

Here’s an example comparison table:

Manufacturer	Price	Lead Time	Reputation	Capabilities
A	$$	5 days	Good	Standard
B	$$$	3 days	Excellent	Advanced
C	$$$$	24 hours	Unknown	Standard

In this case, Manufacturer B offers the best balance of price, lead time, reputation, and capabilities.

Pitfalls to Avoid

There are a few potential pitfalls to watch out for when getting quick turn PCB quotes:

1. Inaccurate Design Files: Make sure your design files are complete and accurate. Errors can lead to delays or additional costs.

2. Unrealistic Expectations: While quick turn manufacturers can work fast, there are limits. Don’t expect next-day delivery on a complex design.

3. Cutting Corners: Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Exceptionally low prices may come with quality risks.

4. Hidden Fees: Make sure the quote includes all applicable fees, such as shipping or tooling charges.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about quick turn PCB quotes:

What’s the fastest possible turnaround for a PCB order?

Some manufacturers offer 24-hour turnaround, but this is typically only for simple designs and low quantities. For most projects, 3-5 days is a more realistic quick turn timeline.

Can I get a discount for ordering larger quantities?

Yes, most manufacturers offer price breaks at higher quantities. However, for quick turn orders, there may be limits on the maximum quantity eligible for the fastest turnaround times.

What files do I need to provide for a PCB quote?

At a minimum, you’ll need to provide Gerber files and drill files. Some manufacturers may also request additional files like a bill of materials or assembly drawing.

Can I request a quote without providing design files?

Some manufacturers offer rough estimates based on general specifications like board size and layer count. However, for an accurate quote, you’ll need to provide complete design files.

What if I need to make changes to my design after I receive a quote?

If you make changes, you’ll likely need to request an updated quote. Most manufacturers are happy to re-quote a modified design, but keep in mind that changes could impact pricing and lead times.

Conclusion

Quick turn PCB quotes allow you to get fast pricing and turnaround on your PCB orders. By understanding the factors that impact pricing, knowing how to request and compare quotes, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can take advantage of quick turn manufacturing for your projects.

Remember, while price is important, it’s not the only factor to consider. Look for manufacturers with a strong reputation for quality and reliability, and be realistic about your expectations for turnaround times.

With the right approach, quick turn PCB quotes can help you get your boards manufactured efficiently and cost-effectively, allowing you to bring your electronics projects to life faster.