[sdiy] PCB houses

[Paul Schreiber]

>
> If anyone knows a [fully] US-based, environmentally-friendly PCB house, 
> let us all know about it.
>


There are a lot of these, but the *prices* are going to be 2X-3X over China. 
Also, most US fab houses have a minimum "lot order" that will be around $375 
(for maybe 50pcs). Getting cheap prototypes (or say <10 boards) will always 
cost a lot.

I use Advanced Circuits in Colorado for all my prototypes. They can't be 
beat on quality/service. www.4pcb.com look for the $99 special (3 or 4 
boards, double-sided up to like 70sq in). I have used them in the past for 
smaller sized, production boards (like 1" x 3") as they seem to be 
competitive for this. But for "production" runs (say 100 boards in larger 
sizes) they are not that great.

Most US houses are geared for QUICK turns where $$$ in not an issue. I have 
used Imagineering in CA in the past to get *overnight* boards (for NAMM 
panic) and the cost approaches fairy-dust (I think a 4-layer board that was 
15sq inches was like $600). Ack!

I have bought over 8,000 pc boards from a local Dallas supplier, Texas 
Circuitry. However, they are NOT a quick-turn prototype house. They have 
minimum orders and deliver in ~ 3 weeks. But they are reliable and I've been 
buying from them over 25 years :) The pricing is good, not 'China-like' but 
it's more of a loyalty thing.

For lowest pricing on volume (100+) and fast service you can't beat China 
(shrug). A MOTM-sized pc board (4 x 5in) in 100pcs is ~$4.00 *delivered* 
from China.

Paul S.