HilPCB Services
Order prototype bare boards for engineering validation. A 24-hour expedite is available for eligible single and double-layer FR-4 builds. HilPCB reviews files, stackup, material, and delivery eligibility before order release. For assembled prototypes, see our small-batch assembly service.
01 ยท HilPCB Services
02 ยท PCB Prototype Engineering Examples by Board Type
Three example prototypes by board type and scenario, covering the most common paths from design validation to side-by-side stackup comparison.
A high-speed interface prototype needs the released stackup, impedance table, reference planes, via transitions, and coupon design on the same revision. The first build answers fit, continuity, impedance, and drill questions before assembly or pilot release. Bare-board expedite may not apply if the layer count or material is outside 24h eligibility.
Read the prototype PCB planning guideHeavy-current paths, thermal features, high-voltage spacing, and connector mechanics are reviewed against copper weight, finish, stackup, and test access. The quotation separates bare-board expedite eligibility from any later assembly, load, or functional-test scope. 24h applies only to the bare board if the design qualifies.
Read first-article inspection inputsWhen comparing 4-layer vs 6-layer stackups for the same circuit, order both versions in one quote to test impedance, signal integrity, and thermal performance. Each version gets its own stackup review, material confirmation, and electrical test. The results inform which design moves to assembly and pilot.
Read the prototype PCB planning guide03 ยท Which Prototype Bare Board Do You Need?
04 ยท PCB Prototype Fabrication Scope
Prototype runs are organized as a baseline release. Confirm design, process, and material first, then build, test, and release. Records stay with the build for assembly or volume to reuse.
05 ยท How to Order a PCB Prototype: Quote, Review, and Release
Each step from file submission to release stays in revision and change control. The prototype baseline carries into assembly and volume without re-release.
Submit the latest Gerber or ODB++ files, NC drill data, and fabrication drawing with stackup notes
Engineering reviews stackup, material, geometry, controlled impedance, panelization, and identified risk points, then confirms 24h eligibility or returns a lead time with the quote
HilPCB records the approved file revision, material grade, substitutions, acceptance scope, and delivery route before production starts
Fabrication proceeds from the released package; any later change enters revision and change control, not an informal edit
Electrical test, inspection, and acceptance records are completed and shipped with the boards
06 ยท Prototype RFQ Checklist
Send the items below to keep the review and lead time on the first pass. Anything missing will be flagged in the quotation, not assumed at order time.
07 ยท Frequently Asked Questions
Eligible single and double-layer FR-4 bare boards can ship in 24 hours after file review. Multilayer boards (4-6 layers) typically take 48-72 hours. Specialty materials, 8+ layers, and fine geometry receive a confirmed schedule with the quotation.
No MOQ โ single boards are accepted. Panel utilization and material minimums may affect the economic order quantity, which is confirmed in the quotation.
FR-4, Rogers, polyimide, aluminum, and ceramic options are available. The exact grade, thickness, copper weight, stackup, and material availability are confirmed in the quotation. Specialty materials may not qualify for 24-hour expedite.
No. The 24-hour expedite applies to eligible bare-board builds after file, material, and capacity review. Multilayer boards, specialty materials, fine geometry, and special processes may not qualify for 24h. Eligibility is confirmed with the quotation, not assumed at order time.
Gerber or ODB++ files, NC drill data, and a fabrication drawing with stackup notes. For controlled impedance, add the impedance table with target values, trace widths, and layer references. State the quantity, delivery target, and material requirements so the review team can confirm lead time and 24h eligibility.
Bare-board prototype fabrication is covered here. For prototype and small-batch PCB assembly (SMT, through-hole, or turnkey), see our small-batch assembly service. Assembled prototypes require a BOM with manufacturer part numbers and a CPL or pick-and-place file in addition to the fabrication data.
Yes. Keep the approved fabrication files and revision as the release baseline. The same controlled baseline moves from bare-board prototype to assembly or volume without re-releasing the files. Record design changes, approved substitutions, and deviations before starting assembly or a repeat order.
Upload Gerber / ODB++ and receive a review plus quotation within 24 hours.
