FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

OUR POLICIES

We proactively manage supply chain disruptions by working with trusted suppliers, maintaining strategic inventory, and monitoring market trends. In case of shortages, we source alternatives and communicate transparently to keep your project on track.

Quality is our priority, adhering to IPC-A-610 Class 2/3 standards. If a defect occurs, our skilled technicians diagnose, repair, and retest to meet your specifications. We provide detailed reports for full transparency, ensuring flawless products and complete satisfaction.

  • Tiered pricing discounts based on order volume.
  • Exclusive incentives for repeat customers, including priority scheduling, discounted rates, and dedicated account management.
  • Flexible payment terms and customized solutions to meet specific needs

While specific file formats are not explicitly listed on their website, industry-standard formats such as Gerber files are commonly used for PCB manufacturing and assembly. Gerber files are the de facto standard for PCB designs, containing all the necessary information for production.

StreamPCP Inc. specializes in quick-turn PCB services, offering turnaround times as fast as 24 hours for prototypes. For small production runs, lead times range from 24 hours to 5 days, while medium to large production orders typically have lead times of 7 to 10 days.

Yes, StreamPCP Inc. offers expedited services for urgent orders. They specialize in quick-turn PCB services with turnaround times as fast as 24 hours, depending on the complexity and requirements of the project.

StreamPCP Inc. adheres to several industry standards to ensure high-quality products:

  • Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, ITAR, UL, and Cage Code.
  • Inspection Standards: By default, they inspect to IPC-A-610, Class II, with Class III inspection available upon request.
  • RoHS Compliance: They adhere to IPC-1066, finish category E1, ensuring their products are free from hazardous substances.
  • Moisture Sensitivity: They follow the JDEC J-STD-033B.1 standard for moisture sensitivity.

These measures ensure that their PCBs meet stringent industry standards for quality and environmental compliance.

CAPABILITIES

We handle everything from prototype orders to large-scale production. If your annual requirement exceeds 5,000 units, feel free to contact us at 408-982-5851 or email sales@streampcb.com for tailored support.

While we can manufacture PCBs up to 20in x 24in, our recommended panel sizes are 12in x 18 for sample runs and 18in x 24 for medium to large batches. For orders below 25 units, panelization isn't essential but can be beneficial for smaller boards and larger volumes. Some short-run productions may require penalization.

Yes, we utilize X-ray inspection for BGAs, Leadless ICs, and components with hidden leads to ensure accurate assembly and quality assurance.

 

Silkscreen is optional but preferred for verifying component placement and orientation. If silkscreen is not included, additional documentation will be needed for review

Any specific instructions should be submitted along with your order, preferably in an Assembly Instructions document (PDF or Notepad format) with visual references if required.

FILE & KIT REQUIREMENTS

Centroid data, also known as XY data or Pick-and-Place data, is an essential file for automated PCB assembly. It includes:

  • X and Y coordinates for placement
  • Rotation angle (Theta)
  • Board side (Top or Bottom)
  • Reference designators

If you need us to generate the Centroid file for you, additional charges may apply depending on the number of SMT placements.

To ensure efficient processing, your BOM should contain the following details:

  • Supplier name and part number
  • Reference designator
  • Component description
  • Package type (footprint)

We accept BOMs in Microsoft Excel (.xls, .xlsx), CSV, or tab-delimited formats.

Yes, Digi-Key part numbers are frequently used. Please make sure to include:

  • Digi-Key Part Number
  • Reference Designator
  • Description
  • Package Type (Footprint)

We require Gerber files in RS-274X format. The key layers needed for assembly include:

  • Silkscreen
  • Copper (trace layers)
  • Solder paste layers

For best results, send the complete set of Gerber files generated by your CAD software, just as you would for PCB fabrication.

Each component should be clearly labeled with the exact part number from your BOM. We accept components in the following formats:

  1. Tape (minimum length: 6 inches)
  2. Tubes
  3. Reels
  4. Trays

If your components are sensitive to moisture or static, they should be properly sealed in anti-static packaging.

 Important: Loose SMT components may require additional handling and could be treated as thru-hole placements, leading to extra costs. In most cases, it’s more cost-effective to provide components in reels or strips.

We typically do not stock components. However, for select clients with ongoing projects, we may maintain inventory upon request.

Each order must be kitted separately. If multiple kits are sent in the same package, ensure each one is clearly labeled.

For shared components used across multiple orders:

  • Clearly label shared parts and specify which projects they belong to
  • Provide an additional 5% of shared components for each project to prevent shortages

Forgetting to include the extra 5% buffer is one of the most common mistakes, so be sure to plan accordingly!

OTHER SERVICES

Yes! We design custom PCB Layouts that comply with IPC standards and certification requirements like UL, CE, and TUV. Get a quote by sending your schematic to sales@streampcb.com

Alongside PCB assembly, we provide:
Prototype Box Build – Custom mechanical assembly services
Cable Assembly – Solder-based and crimp-based solutions
General Electronics Work – Supporting your technical needs

Yes! We specialize in high-speed PCB layout, impedance control, and signal integrity optimization to ensure reliable performance.

TECHNICAL

Absolutely! Our RoHS-compliant, lead-free PCB assembly ensures eco-friendly, high-quality manufacturing while meeting global safety standards.

SMT components can absorb moisture, which can expand during soldering and damage components—sometimes visibly, sometimes not.

✔ We strictly follow JDEC J-STD-033B.1 guidelines.
✔ If a component is labeled as moisture-sensitive or arrives unsealed, we assess whether it requires baking or consult with you.
✔ Standard 5- and 10-day orders are usually unaffected. However, for 24- and 48-hour projects, baking may extend turnaround by up to 48 hours.

Yes! If your PCBs are panelized, here’s what you need to know:

Quote based on the individual board, even if we assemble the full panel.
By default, we de-panelize after assembly—unless you request otherwise.
✔ In the "Special Requirements" section, let us know:

We maintain the highest industry standards to ensure quality, compliance, and reliability:

ISO 9001:2000, ITAR, UL & Cage Code Certified
✔ Inspection meets IPC-A-610, Class II (Class III available on request)
RoHS-compliant per IPC-1066, finish category E1
✔ Moisture-sensitive components are handled per JDEC J-STD-033B.1

TURN-KEY ORDERS

We do not substitute or cross parts without customer approval. If parts are unavailable, we discuss options with you before making any changes to the bill of materials.

We order components as per your bill of materials, including overage. If supplier minimums require extra parts, we consult you before ordering.

Lead time includes component sourcing and assembly. Prototypes for small production take 24 hours to 5 days; medium to large production takes 7-10 days. All components must be received before assembly begins.

Yes, we offer Partial Turn-Key services, standalone PCB manufacturing, or assembly labor based on your needs.

No, we accept orders as small as 1 piece.

Extra components from supplier minimums are returned to you. Normal assembly overage is not returned.

  • Complete BOM (Excel format) with manufacturer, part number, ref designators, description, and quantity.
  • Gerber files
  • Centroid data (we can create this if needed)

An upfront payment (cost of components or 50% of the order, whichever is greater) is required. The balance is due at shipment unless Net terms are approved.