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You get your files submitted, the quote looks good, and you're ready to move forward. Then the number changes, or an email shows up with a list of questions. That's frustrating for everyone, but it's often avoidable.
A quote is only as accurate as the information behind it. If we can't see a requirement, we can't price it. After more than a decade at ASC Sunstone, I've seen the same few gaps turn a good quote into a revised one. Here's what to check before you hit submit, especially if this is your first quote with us.
Start with your Gerbers, your NC drill file, and your fabrication drawing. If you're ordering assembly, add your bill of materials. That's it, one set of files! The NC drill file is the one we see go missing most, so make sure it's complete and accurate before you upload it. And please, no zip files inside of zip files. If we have to guess which version you meant, nobody wins.
Board thickness, layer count, copper weight, material, and any special stackup all affect what your board costs to build. If you need something specific, tell us up front. If you're not sure yet, which happens a lot on a proof of concept, start with our basic default specs. You can always get more specific on the next spin.
Controlled impedance, tight tolerances, and special finishes can all change how your board gets built and what it costs. If you quote a board without them and they turn up later in your documentation, the price is going to change. Call them out from the start, and we can tell you early if something needs a closer look.
Fab notes, fab notes, fab notes! If you read my post on the dreaded hold email, you know how I feel about this one. Your notes need to match your order. Boilerplate notes are especially risky, because they can call out specs you never needed and drive up both your price and your lead time. Read them against your order one more time before you submit. If your print notes don't apply to the build, OneQuote lets you opt out of them.
Both of these have a direct effect on your price. Quote the quantity you plan to buy and the lead time you really need. A faster turn generally costs more, so if a week works for your schedule, don't quote it at two days. Still deciding? Try a few combinations in OneQuote and see where the price lands.
For standard builds, OneQuote gives you real time pricing, and you can enter advanced options right in the form. If your design needs a closer look, submit an RFQ and our team will work through the requirements with you.
Already building with us? Give your package the same check whenever a design revs. Old notes and stale drill files are easy to miss.
Complete files, clear specs, and notes that match your order give us what we need to get your quote right the first time. A few extra minutes on your end means fewer questions from us and fewer surprises for you. For the full rundown, take a look at our PCB Order Checklist. If you're ever unsure, just reach out. We're always happy to help.
Questions? Comments? Suggestions?
We always love to hear from you. Contact us at 1-800-228-8198 or via email at [email protected].
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