Prototype PCB Assembly RFQ: Files & Scope Checklist
Table of Content
Preparing a prototype PCB assembly RFQ starts with one consistent build package: the PCB fabrication files, bill of materials and placement data must describe the same board revision. Then state the sample quantity, sourcing responsibilities and the checks you want included. These details help separate a usable manufacturing quotation from an estimate with open assumptions.
What should a prototype PCB assembly RFQ include? Send Gerber and NC drill files, PCB specifications, a BOM with manufacturer part numbers, pick-and-place / CPL data and an assembly drawing. Add quantity, full or partial turnkey scope, approved substitutions, test requirements, target date and delivery destination. If a file is unfinished, identify the gap before requesting a final quote.
OrinewPCB reviews inquiries for PCB fabrication, component sourcing and assembly. For the available build options, see our prototype PCB assembly service and turnkey assembly service.
1. Prepare the files for a prototype PCB assembly quote
Use the same revision identifier in the fabrication package, BOM, placement file and assembly notes. Include a short readme that identifies the approved files and any questions still awaiting a decision.
| Item | Include | Resolve before release |
|---|---|---|
| PCB fabrication files | Gerber layers, NC drill data, outline and fabrication notes | Missing layers, board dimensions or a conflicting revision |
| PCB specification | Stack-up, material, copper thickness, surface finish and special requirements | Unspecified features that affect fabrication or assembly |
| BOM | Reference designators, manufacturer and part number, quantity per board, DNP positions | Incomplete part numbers or mismatched quantities |
| Placement / CPL file | Designators, X/Y positions, rotation and board side | Different origins, units or revision from the assembly drawing |
| Assembly drawing | Polarity, connector orientation and special operations | Ambiguous orientation or instructions absent from the BOM |
| Project scope | Quantity, sourcing split, target date, destination and test requirements | Assumptions about what the quotation includes |
On a small screen, scroll this checklist within the table. Keep the approved manufacturing package together when submitting the inquiry.
2. Define full turnkey or partial turnkey sourcing
For a full turnkey prototype, ask the assembly partner to coordinate bare PCBs, purchasing the agreed BOM and assembly. For partial turnkey, identify each item you will supply and each item you want sourced. The agreed quotation should make that split explicit.
- Supplied components: list exact part numbers, quantities, packaging, labels and expected arrival dates.
- Approved alternatives: identify acceptable replacements or state that written approval is required before any substitution.
- Do-not-populate positions: mark DNP locations consistently in the BOM and drawing.
- Purchasing quantities: ask how sourcing minimums, process allowances and unused parts affect the quote.
- Long or uncertain availability: flag critical parts and explain whether alternatives may be reviewed.
A generic component description is not a replacement for a complete manufacturer part number. Package, value, tolerance, temperature rating and other design requirements may affect whether an alternative is acceptable.
3. Specify what the prototype must demonstrate
Assembly inspection and functional testing answer different questions. Inspection can address manufacturing features such as component presence, orientation or solder-joint condition. Functional testing evaluates the behavior defined by your procedure. State the coverage you need for both.
- Inspection: discuss the checks needed for the packages and assembly operations on your board.
- Programming: provide firmware version, programming interface and instructions where required.
- Functional testing: provide connections, operating conditions, measurements and pass/fail criteria.
- Fixtures: explain whether you supply the fixture or need its preparation reviewed in the quote.
- Acceptance: agree on the inspection or test evidence needed before shipment.
Ask the supplier to list any required information or fixture work that remains open. Do not assume that an assembly quote automatically includes firmware development, every product function or regulatory compliance testing.
4. Quote the sample and next batch separately
Share your required prototype quantity and the expected next order. Request a cost breakdown for each quantity, including PCB fabrication, purchased components, stencil or setup work, assembly, programming or testing, and delivery terms.
For example, a BOM item used three times per board requires 30 fitted pieces for ten boards. Any process allowance, supplier minimum purchase or unused material should be identified separately. This is a quantity illustration, not a purchase recommendation or a quoted production allowance.
Use our PCB assembly cost guide to review the cost categories. Before a repeat build, use the prototype-to-production release checklist to record approved changes.
5. Use a clear prototype PCBA inquiry message
Replace the brackets below with your project details and attach the files that are ready. State any missing information directly.
Project / application: [brief description] PCB and BOM revision: [revision] Prototype quantity: [quantity] Expected next batch: [quantity, if known] Supply scope: [full turnkey / partial turnkey / assembly of supplied materials] Files attached: [Gerber, drill, BOM, CPL, assembly drawing] Parts we will supply: [part numbers and quantities, if any] Substitution approval: [permitted alternatives or approval required] Inspection / programming / functional tests: [requirements] Target date and destination: [date, country or delivery location] Open questions or unfinished files: [list]
This message helps the team identify the requested manufacturing scope. The approved build package and material review are still needed to confirm final pricing and the production schedule.
Prototype PCB assembly RFQ questions
Can I request a quote before the BOM is complete?
You can start an inquiry and identify the missing items. A preliminary estimate may have assumptions; final component pricing and manufacturing release require an approved BOM and agreed sourcing scope.
Do I need a pick-and-place file for a prototype?
Include it when available, with the matching assembly drawing. If it is missing, ask what data preparation is required and whether the quotation includes that work.
How do I request assembly using components I already own?
List the exact part numbers, quantities, packaging and arrival dates. Identify the remaining items to source and ask how missing quantities or unused components will be handled.
Should I include a target delivery date?
Yes. State the date and destination, then confirm the practical schedule after files, materials and required test preparation have been reviewed.
Request a quote for your prototype PCBA build
Tell OrinewPCB your sample quantity and whether you need PCB fabrication, component purchasing and assembly together. Include the approved files and the checks you need, or describe what is still in progress.
For a complete project package, you can also email [email protected].
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