Epec's Blog | Electronics Manufacturing Solutions

Designing a product that moves efficiently from concept to production requires more than just a good idea, it demands an in-depth understanding of how each component will be manufactured and assembled. At Epec, we work with engineers across various industries to optimize designs for manufacturability, whether it’s a custom cable assembly, rigid-flex PCB, battery pack, or fully integrated user interface.

The subject here isn’t all that glamorous, however, the requests about high-frequency printed circuit board (PCB) have increased significantly, which makes me think we have more that can be said on the subject of high-frequency applications

Devices that rely on lithium-based battery cells to operate will have battery management systems (BMS) installed into the packs. The BMS is designed to monitor the characteristics of the battery infrastructure to ensure safe operation.

Prototyping your new rigid-flex PCB design is critical. It’s best to test your design, ensure everything fits, and look for obvious issues before jumping into full-scale production. As necessary as this step is, it also comes with a cost that can be tough to justify to stakeholders and decision-makers.

Multiconductor cables are among the most common types of wire harnesses used today for their high reliability and versatility. They are highly sought after because manufacturers can completely customize the wire cross-section, serving all industries and applications. Multiconductor cables are used everywhere, including USB cables, automotive harnesses, printer cables, electrical vehicle charging stations, x-ray machines, and so on.

When it comes to high-power printed circuit boards (PCBs), they require more of what we have been talking about. High-power PCBs are what is in their name, meaning they require more current than standard PCBs.

Technologies are becoming lightweight and smaller to allow for portability. From drones, laptops, and phones to power tools and medical devices, these applications require a high amount of power to function and a battery that guarantees long run times and safety.

In today's global electronics landscape, sourcing challenges are more than just a procurement problem, they’re a risk to production timelines, quality, and long-term customer satisfaction. Cable assemblies, which often require precision tooling, are especially vulnerable when changes in your supply chain force a transition to a new manufacturing partner.

When designing a product, the focus is often spent on the functionality of the device. For most instrument-measuring devices, most of the focus is spent on the sensors themselves and the data capture that will occur during their use. Often factors such as power delivery are left in theory until it’s time to finish the design of the product.

Although it may not feel like it, the PCB manufacturing industry is approaching its 100th anniversary – a remarkable milestone. It’s hard for me to believe, especially having spent 40 years in the business myself. The idea of reaching a century of innovation in this field once seemed impossible. It almost feels like we should begin the story with, “A long time ago, in the 1930s,” when PCBs first came to light during WWII. Yet here we are, on the brink of celebrating this incredible achievement.