Files Requested for PCBA | PCBasic
Before performing PCB assembly (PCBA) at PCBasic, you need to provide several key documents. Please ensure that the materials are submitted in the correct format. You can upload directly through the online quotation/order page, or send an email to JS@pcbasic.com with your order number in the email subject line:
1. BOM (Bill of Materials)
A BOM (Bill of Materials) is a list of all the electronic components required to complete the assembly of the circuit board. It explains which components are needed during the assembly process and where these components should be placed.
We accept BOM files in the following formats: .xls, .xlsx, or .csv.
The required BOM information may vary slightly depending on the order type (Turnkey, Partial Turnkey, or Consigned/Kitted).
For Consigned/Kitted orders from customers, the BOM should include:
For Consigned/Kitted Orders, the BOM should include:
• Line #
• Quantity per Part Number
• Reference Designator
• Part Number
• Part Description
• Package
• Type (Surface Mount, Thru-Hole, or Hybrid)
For Turnkey and Partial Turnkey Orders, the BOM should include:
• Line #
• Quantity per Part Number
• Reference Designator
• Part Number
• Part Description
• Package
• Type (Surface Mount, Thru-Hole, or Hybrid)
• Manufacturer Name
• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN)
• Distributor Part Number (if applicable)
2. Gerber Files
Like the Gerber files (RS-274X format) used in PCB manufacturing, these files are also used for PCB assembly. PCBasic requires at least the following three layers during the assembly process:
• Silkscreen
• Copper/Track
• Solder Paste
Please ensure that all these files are included and verified before submission. Before production begins, our engineers will also review the documents to ensure that the information is complete and correct, so as to guarantee the smooth progress of assembly.
3. Centroid File (Pick and Place / XY Data)
The Centroid file, also known as the Pick and Place, Insertion, XY Data, is used to program the SMT placement machines. This file defines the position and rotation of each surface-mount component and should include the following contents:
• Reference Designator
• X and Y Coordinates
• Rotation
• Board Side (Top or Bottom)
Only SMT components are listed in the Centroid file. Many CAD tools can automatically generate this file, but before submission, you should still check or adjust it to ensure the accuracy of the data.
4. Other Supporting Documents
To ensure accurate and efficient assembly, we strongly recommend that you also provide other materials related to PCB assembly, such as:
• Assembly drawings
• Special assembly instructions
• Component placement photos or images
These documents can help engineers better understand your project requirements, avoid potential assembly errors, and ensure high-quality and reliable PCBA finished products.
Tip from PCBasic:
Providing complete and well-organized files allows our engineers to start your project immediately and ensures a faster delivery for your assembled boards.
