EMS services

COMPREHENSIVE EMS SERVICES

Proplace EMS solutions

from product development to dispatch

We start every project with the product and its technical requirements in mind. Based on the documentation, bill of materials, planned quantities, and testing requirements, we determine the right production process and the services needed for the project.

Before production begins, we align on key requirements, open questions and checkpoints to ensure the product’s path through production is clearly defined from the outset.

COMPREHENSIVE EMS SERVICES

Proplace EMS solutions

from product preparation to dispatch

We start every project with the product and its technical requirements in mind. Based on the documentation, bill of materials, planned quantities, and testing requirements, we determine the right production process and the services needed for the project.

Before production begins, we align on key requirements, open questions and checkpoints to ensure the product’s path through production is clearly defined from the outset.

Quality Standards

Quality Control

SPI

Solder paste inspection (SPI). Most component placement quality issues in electronics manufacturing originate with solder paste application. At Proplace, we provide comprehensive solder paste inspection using an in-line SPI machine that checks paste application on every PCB.

AOI

Visual inspection is carried out using AOI (automated optical inspection) machines, which can detect potential solder bridges, component misalignment and other placement defects. Read more about our AOI machine in the SMD placement section

X-ray inspection

For the placement of more complex components, where visual inspection alone cannot provide the required quality control, we can also arrange X-ray inspection of printed circuit boards through our partners. This technology is particularly useful when assembling BGA chips, as X-rays let us see beneath the chip and verify the quality of the solder joints.

FCT

Functional testing can make a major contribution to increasing the proportion of defect-free products shipped. The customer can supply the functional testing equipment, or Proplace can manufacture it based on the customer’s specifications.

R&D

Preparation

to production

From design to a production-ready process

We review the bill of materials, PCB data, placement plan and any specific production requirements. For Design for Manufacturing (DfM), we focus on assembly feasibility: component accessibility, soldering method, inspection and the sequence of production steps. For Design for Testability (DfT), we work together to determine how to verify the agreed product functions and which test points or connectors should be included at the development stage.

From prototype to repeatable production

Prototyping allows us to evaluate the product and manufacturing process in practice. We document any outstanding questions and agree on them with the customer before the product goes into series production. If components, functional requirements or production data change during the product’s lifecycle, we assess the impact of the change on manufacturing and testing together.

Materials procurement

BOM and critical materials review

Based on the bill of materials, we verify the specified manufacturers, component part numbers, quantities and any special requirements. If a component is difficult to source or unavailable within the required lead time, we present the customer with options for moving forward. Substitute components or changes to the bill of materials are only made after technical review and customer approval.

Materials for the complete product

In addition to components and PCBs, we can also source enclosures, metal or plastic parts, labels and packaging. Materials can be supplied by Proplace, the customer, or both, depending on what works best for each order. Before production, we agree which parts are included in our supply and which will be provided by the customer.

PCB Assembly

SMT assembly

For SMT assembly, we automatically apply solder paste and inspect its deposition using an SPI system. Components are then placed by machine and soldered in reflow ovens. Checking the solder paste deposition is important at the start of the process, as improper application can affect component placement and joint quality. We prepare the production program based on approved documentation.

THT assembly and mixed technologies

Through-hole components are inserted into the PCB and soldered using the method best suited to the product design. Depending on joint accessibility, component type and production volume, we use the appropriate process, such as selective, wave or hand soldering. When a product includes both SMD and THT components, we coordinate the process sequence and required inspections.

Assembled circuit board inspection

During production, we use checkpoints such as solder paste inspection (SPI) and automated optical inspection (AOI). For more complex joints that cannot be adequately assessed by optical inspection, we can also arrange X-ray inspection by agreement. Optical inspection checks component orientation and solder joints; electrical product testing is carried out separately if required.

Programming and testing

Choosing the right method

Flying Probe and In-Circuit Test help verify selected electrical connections and components on an assembled PCB. Functional testing (FCT) verifies that the product performs as agreed under the specified test conditions. The customer selects the appropriate method based on the PCB design, expected volume, test accessibility and the defects they want to detect. If the product requires specific power supply or communication tests, we define them in the test protocol.

Programming and test equipment

We can program products using software and instructions provided by the customer. The customer may supply the test equipment; where this is part of the agreed project, we can also help develop a dedicated test solution. Testing can take place before or after the electronics are installed in the enclosure. To ensure reliable testing, we need clear acceptance criteria and a procedure for handling failed tests.

“Proven speed, flexibility and precision.”

Cleaning and protective coating

Automated washing of assembled PCBs

Machine washing removes production residues, including flux residues. A clean surface may be required to meet specific cleanliness criteria or prepare for coating. Before washing, we check the sensitivity of installed components, manufacturers’ recommendations, areas that must not come into contact with the process, and the required drying method. We set washing parameters according to the product; not all assemblies are suitable for the same process.

Protective Coating

We apply a protective coating to specific areas of a circuit board or to the entire board when a product requires extra protection from environmental factors. Connectors, contacts, test points and other areas that must remain uncoated are specified in the documentation and protected during the process. The coating type, areas to be coated, thickness or special requirements, and inspection method are agreed before production begins.

Final Assembly and Box Build

Assembly to agreed instructions

For each product, we define the assembly sequence, required parts and inspection points. If the product needs programming or functional testing after assembly, we place the test at the appropriate stage of the process. This means customers can receive a fully assembled electronic unit, ready for the next stage of their production or for shipment as agreed.

Materials and changes

For box builds, enclosures, fasteners, cables, labels and other accessories need to be available on time, alongside the PCBA. We agree which parts the customer supplies and which Proplace sources. Before production starts, we align on any design or instruction changes to ensure assembly follows the correct document revision.

Traceability

and labelling

Product information

In addition to our own identification, we can include the customer’s product number, serial number or other specified information on each PCB, by agreement. Marking can take the form of a QR code, Data Matrix code or other suitable format. Before implementation, we define the position, legibility, data structure and link between the marking and the required records. For suitable products, laser marking can replace an additional label.

Traceability as part of project requirements

The level of traceability varies by product and customer. That’s why, when reviewing the documentation, we agree which data must be linked to the product, how long it must be retained and what information must accompany the shipment. This helps streamline production, change management and subsequent queries about individual batches.

Packaging and logistics

Reusable and sustainable packaging

Some products may require additional protection, separation between pieces, or packaging suitable for reuse at the customer’s site. Where it supports the production and logistics process, we can plan reusable packaging together. Before implementation, we define the return process, labelling and responsibilities to ensure the packaging works in practice.

Shipment by arrangement

We coordinate the dispatch date with confirmed production and material availability. If a project involves multiple deliveries or special packaging requirements, we include these in the order plan from the outset. This ensures the customer receives the product in a format suited to their downstream process.

Prototype manufacturing

At Proplace, our prototype manufacturing supports the development of new products and enables the rapid validation and improvement of electronic solutions.

With flexible work planning and a connected team, we respond efficiently even to orders with short lead times. We have no minimum order quantity—we can manufacture even a single unit.

We handle PCB and component procurement, SMT and THT assembly, and testing to project requirements. When materials are available, we can deliver quickly; lead times are agreed based on product complexity and your needs. If the materials you want assembled are readily available, you can order placement from us with very short lead times.

Request a quote

Looking for a new

EMS partner?

Send us your bill of materials (BOM), production files, estimated quantity and required delivery date. If you have specific requirements for programming, testing, protection, traceability, final assembly or packaging, please include them in your inquiry.

We’ll review the documentation and prepare clear recommendations and a competitive quotation.