PCB Production to everyone, a good idea?

[Michael_N]

Hi,

I need some advise from you guys....
I run a small company whare I develop and produce electronics. All in house...
When I need to make a protype or just need to produce a small quantity of pcb's,
I use a CNC router to do this.
But it is very time consuming and more expensive to do the trace routing, compared to etching.

So I'm thinking about going back to the etching method again and then only using the CNC for drilling and milling.

Today I almost never make prototypes for a customer, unless it's part of a project with a production in the end (small or big)
But I have been considering if I should setup my new pcb-fabrication facilities so I could offer prototypes, small and/or large production to everyone who has that need?

Would you be interested in such a service?
I would be able to offer;
PCB making in quantity 1 pcs to mass production at a competive price and quick delievery (48hrs)
PCB's with soldermask/solderresist
PCB assembly also from 1 pcs to mass production. I'm thinking that the hobbyist could hae the advantage of sourcing the components from me and
hopefully getting a better price, than sourcing himself from the local electronic store.

What do you think, is it a good idea?
Any inputs would be great


Kind regards
Michael

 

[ArticCynda]

It could be interesting, but of course everything will depend on the price. Etching boards at home isn't that hard (for single and double sided designs), so you'll probably have to target services that aren't possible with regular home equipment (i.e. solder mask, 4 layer boards)

 

[Michael_N]

It could be interesting, but of course everything will depend on the price. Etching boards at home isn't that hard (for single and double sided designs), so you'll probably have to target services that aren't possible with regular home equipment (i.e. solder mask, 4 layer boards)

Thanks for your input
Soldermask is a thing I would offer. It also helps me control the solder paste when reflowing.
I havent yet considered the 4-layer option. But I will check out and see if I can afford the equipment