FAQ
TL;DR: For 2‑layer PCB prototypes, you can pay as little as $90 per 200 sq in panel; “used them several times before with good results.” Panelized runs of identical boards often beat per‑piece pricing. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21659641]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps hobbyists, students, and startups pick faster, cheaper prototype PCB options without sacrificing basic quality.
Quick Facts
- Entry benchmark: $29.95 for 5 pcs (includes shipping) from h‑instruments, reported by a user. [Elektroda, John Mar, post #21659639]
- Typical timeline: ~5–10 days fabrication plus ~6–15 days shipping to Europe. [Elektroda, John Mar, post #21659645]
- Panel deal: $90 for up to 200 sq in; max single board 7×7 in; identical designs. [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21659641]
- US quick‑turn: Advanced Circuits “$33 each” special nets 4(+1) for $135 (~$27 each). [Elektroda, Justin Grantham, post #21659649]
- Ultra‑budget promo: 10 pcs for $2; DHL shipping reported ~3 days. [Elektroda, Daisy mo, post #21659671]
What’s a good benchmark price for 2‑layer prototype PCBs?
A commonly cited benchmark in this thread is $29.95 for 5 pieces, including shipping, from h‑instruments. Users reported acceptable quality at that price. Treat it as a floor for small orders; panelized offers can undercut per‑piece costs when you need more copies. [Elektroda, John Mar, post #21659639]
How can I get many identical boards cheaply?
Use a panel deal. One user pays $90 for a panel up to 200 sq in with identical boards, max individual size 7×7 in, yielding 12–13 pieces for a 3×5 in design. Quote: “good results.” [Elektroda, Gary Crowell, post #21659641]
Can I order just 1–2 PCBs without buying 10?
Yes—batching services aggregate designs so you can buy one‑offs affordably. A forum member launched a service specifically to solve the “order ONE PCB” problem for DIYers. Check batching providers for panel slots and submission windows. [Elektroda, Ramkumar Ramaswamy, post #21659647]
Which US quick‑turn option is recommended in the thread?
Advanced Circuits’ “$33 each” special is praised. You get 4(+1) boards for $135, or about $27 each. This suits larger single designs or small batches when you need dependable turnaround in the US. [Elektroda, Justin Grantham, post #21659649]
Is there a very low‑cost Chinese fab mentioned?
Yes. A user recommends JLCPCB, citing 10 boards for $2, with DHL shipping reported at about 3 days. They also note multiple color and thickness options and no observed manufacturing issues for their boards. [Elektroda, Daisy mo, post #21659671]
I’m a student with an urgent 8‑mil, 2‑layer SMD board—what should I pick?
For urgent US‑based work, the thread recommends Advanced Circuits’ special. It balances speed and cost and is suitable for student timelines. Ask their support for design‑rule confirmation before ordering. [Elektroda, Justin Grantham, post #21659649]
Should I DIY my prototype PCBs instead of outsourcing?
DIY is possible with laser‑toner or modified inkjet transfer and baking. However, two‑layer DIY boards lack plated through‑holes, which complicates assembly and reliability. Quote: “you won’t get plated through holes.” [Elektroda, Steve Greenfield, post #21659650]
How long do fabrication and shipping typically take to Europe?
One user reports 5–10 days for fabrication plus 6–15 days for shipping. Plan for the high end if customs or queue times fluctuate. This cadence fits small‑batch prototyping with standard airmail. [Elektroda, John Mar, post #21659645]
Who in the thread can handle proto fab and possibly assembly in North America?
Bittele is cited as “cheap for proto boards,” and Advanced Circuits offers a sizable first‑time discount. Both are discussed by a user with repeated ordering experience. [Elektroda, John Rosenbaum, post #21659651]
What are the benefits of going in‑house for prototyping?
An LPKF representative highlights speed, security, and production‑quality prototyping as key benefits when you run multiple projects. In‑house milling can shorten iteration cycles dramatically. [Elektroda, Shane Stafford, post #21659657]
Any other budget‑friendly US fab mentioned for small/medium boards?
Yes. BasicPCB is called “one of the cheapest and fastest” for smaller to medium boards. For larger panels, the same poster uses Advanced Circuits’ 60 sq in special. [Elektroda, david perez, post #21659670]
Is there an option for very small or rigid‑flex prototypes?
A contributor points to a China‑based provider focused on prototypes, including rigid‑flex, claiming strict quality certifications, $10 for very small boards, and 3–5 day delivery. [Elektroda, alvin Wu, post #21659668]
What’s an edge case that can trip up beginners?
DIY double‑layer boards without plated vias may cause intermittent connections when swapping parts or reworking. This reliability gap is why many prefer pro fabs for sellable units. “You won’t get plated through holes.” [Elektroda, Steve Greenfield, post #21659650]
How do I array multiple small boards into a 60 sq in deal?
- Place your designs in a single panel within 60 sq in.
- Add rails, fiducials, and break‑tabs as needed.
- Export panelized Gerbers and submit under the special that allows user arrays. [Elektroda, david perez, post #21659670]
Is there a low‑cost India‑based option discussed?
Yes. A fabricator from India offers small‑quantity, double‑layer boards with solder mask and silkscreen. A quoted example price was about $55 for 5 pcs with shipping, and 10‑day shipment. [Elektroda, Sudhir MT, post #21659644]
Why do some veterans still advocate learning to make PCBs by hand?
One poster argues hands‑on skills help you spot bad designs and poor workmanship quickly, reducing costly mistakes when outsourcing. Quote: gaining these skills improves long‑term outcomes. [Elektroda, Mark Harrington, post #21659665]
