PCB Fabrication Service: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Understanding the PCB fabrication process helps you communicate better with your manufacturer and avoid delays caused by missing or unclear data.

Step 1: File review

Your manufacturer should review your Gerber files and flag issues before production begins. This is called a DFM check.

Step 2: Engineering and tooling

Panel layout, drill data, and phototools are prepared. Good engineering at this stage prevents manufacturing defects later.

Step 3: Fabrication

• Inner layer imaging and etching
• Lamination
• Drilling
• Plating
• Outer layer imaging
• Solder mask and silkscreen
• Surface finish application
• Electrical testing

Step 4: Inspection and shipping

AOI inspection, final visual check, and packaging for international shipment.